The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) represents dockworkers, longshoremen, and maritime workers who play a vital role in global trade. With the shipping and port industry constantly evolving, many aspiring and current union members are curious about the ILA Union average salary in 2026. This guide provides a detailed overview of pay ranges, factors affecting earnings, experience-based salaries, benefits, job outlook, and related career comparisons.
What is the ILA Union?
The ILA Union advocates for workers at ports and terminals across the United States and Canada. Members are primarily involved in:
- Loading and unloading cargo from ships
- Operating cranes, forklifts, and other machinery
- Handling shipping logistics
- Ensuring safety and compliance with labor regulations
ILA membership guarantees collective bargaining, better wages, healthcare, and retirement benefits, making it an attractive choice for maritime workers.
Average ILA Union Salary in 2026
ILA Union salaries are generally higher than non-union dockworkers due to negotiated contracts and benefits.
Salary Range by Region
| Region | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| United States | $65,000 – $105,000 |
| East Coast Ports | $70,000 – $110,000 |
| West Coast Ports | $75,000 – $115,000 |
| Midwest & Gulf Ports | $60,000 – $100,000 |
Salaries vary based on seniority, port size, and specific job roles.
ILA Union Salary by Experience
Experience heavily influences earning potential within the union.
Entry-Level (0–2 Years)
- Salary Range: $45,000 – $65,000
- Roles include casual laborers, helpers, and trainees
- Often work rotating shifts or part-time hours
Mid-Level (3–7 Years)
- Salary Range: $65,000 – $90,000
- Qualified longshoremen with certifications and steady seniority
- May operate machinery or supervise small teams
Senior-Level (8–15 Years)
- Salary Range: $90,000 – $110,000
- Highly experienced operators, foremen, or dock supervisors
- Eligible for overtime and premium pay
Top-Level & Specialists (15+ Years)
- Salary Range: $110,000 – $130,000+
- Senior supervisors, training officers, or safety managers
- Often receive additional benefits like pension contributions
Factors Affecting ILA Union Salary
Several factors influence how much an ILA member earns in 2026:
1. Seniority
- Union contracts reward seniority with higher pay rates and overtime privileges
2. Port Location
- Major ports like Los Angeles, New York, and Seattle pay more due to volume and union strength
3. Job Role
- Crane operators, supervisors, and safety specialists earn more than general dockworkers
4. Certifications & Training
- OSHA safety training, forklift certification, and specialized equipment operation can boost salary
5. Overtime & Shift Differentials
- Night and weekend shifts often include premium pay, increasing total income
Job Market Trends in 2026
The ILA Union job market is influenced by global shipping trends, automation, and trade demand.
Key Trends
- Growth in containerized shipping increases demand for skilled dockworkers
- Automation and AI may reduce the need for manual labor but increase demand for technical operators
- Strong union advocacy ensures consistent wage negotiations
- Ports with high cargo volume see steady hiring
Employment Stability
- Union membership provides job security compared to non-union workers
- Benefits and collective bargaining contracts protect wages even in fluctuating markets
Benefits of Being in the ILA Union
Aside from competitive salaries, ILA Union members enjoy numerous perks:
- Comprehensive health insurance
- Retirement and pension plans
- Paid vacation and sick leave
- Overtime and shift differential pay
- Training programs to enhance skills and certifications
Union membership also provides legal protection and support during disputes.
Education & Certifications That Impact Salary
While formal education is not always required, specialized training increases earning potential:
Recommended Training
- High School Diploma or GED: Minimum requirement
- OSHA Safety Training: Mandatory for safety and equipment handling
- Forklift & Crane Certification: Higher-paying roles require it
- Maritime Safety and Compliance Courses: Optional but beneficial
Continuing education and training improve promotion chances and salary growth within the union.
ILA Union vs Related Careers (Salary Comparison)
| Career | Average Salary (2026) |
|---|---|
| ILA Union Dockworker | $65,000 – $105,000 |
| Warehouse Worker | $40,000 – $65,000 |
| Longshore Supervisor | $90,000 – $130,000 |
| Truck Driver (Port Deliveries) | $50,000 – $85,000 |
| Crane Operator | $70,000 – $120,000 |
ILA Union jobs offer higher pay and benefits compared to non-union port-related roles.
Job Outlook for ILA Union Members
The demand for unionized dockworkers remains strong in 2026 due to:
- Increased global trade and shipping volumes
- Continued importance of ports in supply chain logistics
- Union protections that maintain competitive wages
- Opportunities for skilled operators in specialized roles
Automation may reduce manual labor in the long term, but technical and supervisory positions are likely to grow.
Is Joining the ILA Union Worth It?
For individuals seeking a stable and well-paying career in the maritime industry, joining the ILA Union is a strong choice. Benefits, overtime opportunities, and wage protections make union membership advantageous. While physical labor is a part of the job, seniority, training, and certifications lead to a high earning potential.
Final Thoughts
The ILA Union average salary in 2026 highlights the value of union membership in the shipping industry. With wages ranging from $65,000 to $115,000 for most members and additional benefits like healthcare and retirement plans, a career in the ILA Union is financially rewarding and secure. By gaining experience, completing certifications, and staying in seniority, members can maximize their earning potential and enjoy a stable career path.
This makes ILA Union membership an attractive option for those seeking long-term growth, competitive pay, and strong workplace protections in the maritime industry.