Tank Car, Truck, and Ship Loaders Salary Guide 2025: $58,870 Median, Fast Growth
The median salary for tank car, truck, and ship loaders is $58,870 per year, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. That works out to roughly $28 an hour. The typical pay range runs from $39,460 at the 10th percentile to $83,160 at the 90th. About 10,700 people work in this occupation across the U.S.
How much Tank Car, Truck, and Ship Loaders earn
The BLS reports a mean annual wage of $59,970 for this occupation. Half of all loaders earn between roughly $44,000 and $72,000. The bottom 10% make under $39,460, while the top 10% exceed $83,160.
- Median: $58,870
- Mean: $59,970
- 10th percentile: $39,460
- 90th percentile: $83,160
Pay by state
Where you work matters a lot. Maryland pays the most, with an average of $81,320. South Carolina ($80,700), Montana ($80,070), Minnesota ($76,620), and Alabama ($75,450) also top the list.
The lowest-paying states are Virginia ($41,190), Oklahoma ($35,360), and Arkansas ($33,800). That's a gap of more than $47,000 between the highest and lowest states.
How to become Tank Car, Truck, and Ship Loader
Most tank car, truck, and ship loaders learn on the job. A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Employers often look for candidates who are comfortable with physical work, follow safety procedures closely, and can handle hazardous materials.
Some positions require a commercial driver's license (CDL) if loading/unloading involves driving. Others may require hazardous materials (HazMat) endorsement, especially when handling chemicals or petroleum. Safety training and certification through OSHA or the employer is common. Experience in warehouse, shipping, or industrial work helps.
- High school diploma or equivalent
- On-the-job training (typically a few months)
- Optional: CDL, HazMat endorsement, OSHA safety certification
- Physical stamina and attention to detail
Job outlook
Employment for tank car, truck, and ship loaders is projected to grow 4.3% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 1,300 job openings each year, mostly from workers retiring or leaving the field. The growth is driven by continued demand for bulk transportation of petroleum, chemicals, and other liquids.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary of a tank car, truck, and ship loader in 2025?
The median salary is $58,870 per year ($28/hour). The typical range is $39,460 to $83,160, based on BLS data.
How do I become a tank car, truck, and ship loader?
You typically need a high school diploma and get trained on the job. Some roles require a CDL or HazMat endorsement. Physical fitness and safety knowledge are key.
What is the job growth for tank car, truck, and ship loaders?
The BLS projects 4.3% growth from 2024 to 2034, with about 1,300 openings each year. That's faster than average.
Which states pay tank car, truck, and ship loaders the most?
Maryland ($81,320), South Carolina ($80,700), Montana ($80,070), Minnesota ($76,620), and Alabama ($75,450) are the highest-paying states.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Tank Car, Truck, and Ship Loaders data.