For Educators: Military Resources
Military Cargo Specialists
Median Salary
60,931
Workforce Count
23,803
Overview
What are the responsibilities of this role?
Cargo specialists ensure the safe and efficient transfer of supplies needed by service members worldwide. They are responsible for transferring or supervising the transfer of cargo to and from air, land, and water vehicles by manual and mechanical methods. They also plan and organize loading schedules.
What is the work environment like?
Cargo specialists work outdoors on loading docks and indoors in warehouses.
How many people have this role in the Military?
23,803
Compensation
Understanding 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.
- Always fixed based on rank and service time.
- Distributed monthly.
What is the typical salary range?
Salary by Years of Service
$102,630
2 Years
$70,973
6 Years
$102,630
10+ Years
Median Salary
Military Details
What Service Branches offer this role?
Is this a staff or leadership role?
Enlisted service members execute vital tasks, support operations alongside officers and develop role-specific skills to achieve mission success.
Learn More About Enlisted and Officer PathsWhat does the training for this role entail?
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
Education
What level of education do professionals in this role have?
Which college majors best prepare you for this role?
- General Office Occupations and Clerical Services
- Traffic, Customs, and Transportation Clerk/Technician
Learn About How Military Can Pay for 100% of your College Degree
The Military has several programs that cover college costs — so you can pursue your education with little to no debt.
Learn More About Paying For CollegeSkills and Interest
What knowledge is essential to bring to the table?
- Transportation
- Geography
- Administration and Management
- Administrative
- Public Safety and Security
What personality traits help people thrive in this role?
Conventional
You like structure, staying organized, and working with systems to get things done efficiently.
Enterprising
You love taking risks in business or personal projects — and have the leadership skills to back it up.
RIASEC represents six broad interest areas—Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional—helping individuals identify careers that match their skills and preferences.
Take the RIASEC Test