Transportation Workers
Transportation workers specialize in the safe and efficient movement of materials and goods across various modes of transport. These professionals load and unload chemicals, bulk solids, and other materials into tank cars, trucks, ships, and barges while operating pumps, valves, and material moving equipment. They work in shipping facilities, rail yards, ports, and industrial sites, ensuring accurate placement and secure transport of cargo.
🤖AI Resilience Assessment
AI Resilience Score
Score 3/6: low AI task exposure, limited human advantage means AI will assist but humans remain essential
How we calculated this:
7% of tasks can be accelerated by AI
+4% projected (2024-2034)
EPOCH score: 9/25
📋Key Responsibilities
- •Seal outlet valves on tank cars, barges, and trucks.
- •Verify tank car, barge, or truck load numbers to ensure car placement accuracy based on written or verbal instructions.
- •Start pumps and adjust valves or cables to regulate the flow of products to vessels, using knowledge of loading procedures.
- •Check conditions and weights of vessels to ensure cleanliness and compliance with loading procedures.
- •Observe positions of cars passing loading spouts, and swing spouts into the correct positions at the appropriate times.
- •Monitor product movement to and from storage tanks, coordinating activities with other workers to ensure constant product flow.
- •Operate ship loading and unloading equipment, conveyors, hoists, and other specialized material handling equipment such as railroad tank car unloading equipment.
- •Record operating data such as products and quantities pumped, gauge readings, and operating times, manually or using computers.
💡Inside This Career
Transportation workers spend their days ensuring the smooth movement of goods and materials across various industries and locations. A typical day revolves around loading, unloading, and transferring materials using specialized equipment and techniques. Whether working at shipping ports, industrial facilities, warehouses, or transportation hubs, these professionals operate pumps, conveyors, cranes, and other machinery to handle everything from liquid commodities to bulk materials. They connect hoses and loading systems, monitor fluid levels and pressure gauges, secure cargo, and maintain detailed records of their operations. Safety protocols are paramount, as workers regularly inspect equipment, follow hazardous material procedures, and ensure proper handling techniques.
The work environment varies significantly depending on the specialization and location. Some transportation workers spend their shifts outdoors at busy ports loading massive ships, while others work in climate-controlled warehouses organizing inventory. The pace can range from steady, methodical operations during routine cargo transfers to intense, time-sensitive loading during peak shipping periods. Collaboration is essential, as these professionals coordinate closely with truck drivers, ship crews, warehouse supervisors, and logistics coordinators to ensure materials reach their destinations safely and on schedule.
Physical demands are considerable, as the job involves lifting, operating heavy machinery, and working in various weather conditions. Transportation workers must stay alert throughout their shifts, constantly monitoring equipment performance and material flow. Problem-solving skills come into play when equipment malfunctions or when unusual cargo requires specialized handling procedures. Each day brings different types of materials and unique logistical challenges, keeping the work dynamic and engaging.
📈Career Progression
What does this mean?
This shows how earnings typically grow with experience. Entry level represents starting salaries, while Expert shows top earners (90th percentile). Most workers reach mid-career earnings within 5-10 years. Figures are national averages and vary by location and employer.
📚Education & Training
Requirements
- •Entry Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- •Experience: Some experience helpful
- •On-the-job Training: Few months to one year
Time & Cost
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Find jobs and training programs for transportation workers- Median salary: $46K/year
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💻Technology Skills
⭐Key Abilities
🏷️Also Known As
📑Specializations
This career includes 2 specialized roles with different focuses and compensation levels.
| Specialization | Median Pay | AI Outlook | O*NET Code | Find Jobs | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $58,620 | 🟡 | 53-7121.00 | View details | ||
| $40,310 | 🔴 | 53-7199.00 | View details |
🔗Related Careers
Other careers in transportation
🔗Data Sources
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