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About the job

Operations Manager – Marine & Port Operations

Job Summary

Full-time, on-site position based in Houston, TX. This role oversees daily vessel and port operations throughout North and Central America, leading the operations team and coordinating closely with vessel masters, shipowners, terminals, stevedores, port agents, and service providers to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective vessel calls. The ideal candidate brings strong maritime leadership experience, sound operational judgment, and the ability to manage complex port activities while maintaining strong commercial relationships.

Responsibilities

Plan, monitor, and coordinate vessel schedules, port calls, and related operational activities

Appoint terminals, stevedores, and subagents for individual port calls, providing clear operating instructions

Provide voyage and port operation instructions to vessel masters

Coordinate with shipowners’ operations and commercial teams to address operational requirements and resolve issues

Review port conditions and prepare estimated or budgetary pro forma disbursement accounts (PDAs)

Read, develop, and implement vessel stowage plans

Travel to vessels and ports as required

Provide boarding agent coverage during agent absences when necessary

Prepare PDAs and review, approve, or dispute vendor invoices in coordination with the Accounting Manager

Negotiate stevedoring rates and other port service charges as needed

Maintain strong relationships with terminals, stevedores, towing companies, line handlers, and other service providers

Secure competitive rates, rebates, and favorable service terms

Maintain an updated annual vendor directory (account access info, contact details, brief performance evaluations)

Lead daily activities of the operations team and oversee key performance indicators (KPIs)

Evaluate team performance, identify training needs, and support employee development

Review and approve team members’ paid time off while maintaining adequate operational coverage

Identify and implement improvements to operational processes, service quality, and cost efficiency

Prepare annual operational summary reports

Maintain complete voyage files, including operational records and event timelines to support damage investigations or claims

Represent the company at trade shows and industry events at the President’s request

Complete additional operational assignments as directed by the President

Requirements

Minimum 5 years of management experience and 10 years of experience in marine shipping, terminal/port operations, or shipboard operations

Bachelor’s degree required

Ability to read, develop, and implement vessel stowage plans

Strong leadership, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills

Ability to coordinate multiple vessel calls, manage competing priorities, and make timely operational decisions

Collaborative, customer-focused approach and commitment to continuous improvement

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)

Good driving record

U.S. citizenship required

Ability to travel to vessels and ports as needed

Ability to board vessels and safely climb ladders and gangways

Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds