Tank Car, Truck, and Ship Loaders
Tank car, truck, and ship loaders operate equipment to move bulk materials like coal, sand, grain, and chemicals into and out of storage containers for transport. They work at ports, rail yards, chemical facilities, and distribution centers, often handling the physical and mechanical aspects of large-scale material movement.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against tank car, truck, and ship loaders and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves positioning hoses and chutes, operating pumps and conveyor systems, and monitoring material flow into tank cars or ships. Workers gauge tank levels, take samples for quality checks, and inspect for leaks. Tasks vary by site and material type. Physical work includes walking around tanks, climbing, and handling equipment. Safety procedures and documentation are constant parts of the routine.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You'd do well in this work if you prefer hands-on tasks with clear procedures and predictable routines. People who like seeing concrete results from their effort, who work methodically, and who follow established processes tend to succeed. Mechanical aptitude and attention to detail matter more than creativity.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | $48,690 | $81,320 | $97,260 | 110 |
| South Carolina | $54,540 | $80,700 | $80,700 | 90 |
| Montana | $76,860 | $80,070 | $83,390 | 80 |
| Minnesota | $52,320 | $76,620 | $84,440 | — |
| Alabama | $70,060 | $75,450 | $93,600 | 240 |
| Oregon | $56,290 | $74,040 | $76,780 | — |
| Massachusetts | $59,440 | $71,750 | $77,010 | 140 |
| New Hampshire | $61,510 | $70,030 | $79,560 | 40 |
| California | $60,330 | $68,600 | $92,390 | 110 |
| New Jersey | $58,370 | $64,890 | $67,370 | 120 |
| North Dakota | $55,070 | $61,210 | $63,650 | 310 |
| Texas | $51,470 | $61,170 | $79,340 | 1,620 |
All 35 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- National Ballast Control Operator (BCO) — United States Coast Guard National Maritime Center
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against tank car, truck, and ship loaders and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 53-7121.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.