Help getting in

I’m in need of a little extra cash and one of my friends suggested working in the port. So I got my Twic card and my friend said to “just show up” to start working. But I know there’s gotta be more to it than that. I’m just looking to get a few extra dollars. I’m willing to work overnight once a week; that’s all I want for now. I’m in Houston. I’ve called ILA local 24 but they said I need a referral to get in right now. What am I missing in the process? Or how can I work on move a week to help make ends meet?