Explore Careers
Cargo Specialists
Explore Careers
Cargo Specialists
Transportation, Distribution & LogisticsService Branches with this Role
What do Cargo Specialists do in the Military?
Where do Cargo Specialists work?
Cargo specialists work outdoors on loading docks and indoors in warehouses.
How much do they make?
Median Military Salary
This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.
This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.
$85,754
Military Salary Range
This is the range based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.
Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.
This is the range based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.
Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.
$24,453 - $331,665
How Military Pay is More Than Just a Salary
Base pay is the standard income you'll earn as a service member, providing a stable foundation to start achieving your financial goals.
- Set based on rank and years of service.
- Paid every month.
Allowances are additional payments to help cover living expenses like housing and food.
- Tax-free payments.
- Varies by location and family status.
Special pay provides extra compensation for unique skills, hazardous duties, or challenging assignments.
- Based on specialized roles.
- Varies by position and duty.
What training do Cargo Specialists gain in the Military?
All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training. Job training for cargo specialists consists of classroom and on-the-job instruction, including practice in cargo operations. Training content may include:
- Techniques for loading and storing cargo
- Techniques for planning and scheduling cargo shipments
- Methods for identifying, packing, storing, and transporting hazardous material
- Receipt, identification, classification, and inventory of stock
- Packaging methods and procedures
- Operation and care of forklifts, power winches, and cranes
Military Training for Enlisted Service members
All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training.
What skills help Cargo Specialists succeed?
- Interest in working with forklifts and cranes
- Preference for physical work