Operations Manager

Under the supervision of the Port Manager or District Manager, supervises staff assigned to the Port Office. Operations Manager(s) are generally responsible for ensuring that their assigned port functions operate with proper staffing; customer vessels are efficiently handled to client needs; appropriate documentation for Customs and customers is correctly processed in a timely manner, customer account management is performed at the highest level of service to the client and accurate financial analysis/reports are provided to executive level management. Duties include but are not limited to:

Specific Essential Job Duties:

• Responsible for assigned operation functions related to Full Cargo activity in their assigned Port location unless otherwise specified (Note: activity level in Port and budget requirements will determine number of Operations Managers in Port locations.)
• Coordinate the work activity of assigned Boarding Agents to ensure accurate and timely vessel turnaround based on customer expectations and contract.
• Ensure assigned Port operation staff is properly trained to calculate and present a Port Disbursement forecast to a client in establish time frames.
• Oversee vessel/customer document files to ensure accuracy and proper filing with Customs’ officials in compliance with federal regulations and properly processed in compliance with corporate policies.
• Coordinate Port office inspection procedures and associated training with Boarding Agents, office staff, and Port Manager.
• Recruit/interview/select candidates for Port office position vacancies.
• Responsible for ensuring Port Office is suitable for visits from customers, government staff, stevedores, port managers, and general visitors. Coordinate meetings or teleconferences for Port Manager, District Manager, or Boarding Agents.
• Implement the Port Office Safety Program ensuring compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations.
• Prepare weekend and/or night duty lists and present to staff on a timely basis.
• Responsible for ensuring that all Port Office staff receives the appropriate training activity such as maritime, language, or industry trade courses.
• Coordinate the development of basic internal training courses dealing with common shipping practice for Boarding Agents. Ensure that all training is properly documented and conducted within appropriate time periods.
• Assist in implementation of Port Marketing Plans as directed by the Port Manager and Marketing Department. Participate in sales calls and events related to customer accounts.
• Board vessels and perform agent duties as needed.
• Not all aspects of the job are covered by the descriptions, other duties may be required and / or designated by executive level management.

Qualifications Required:

• High school diploma or GED equivalency required.
• Some college courses in business management helpful and preferred.
• In depth knowledge and understanding of Port Agency Work required.
• Previous verifiable experience handling agent duties in servicing vessel arrivals and departures.
• Position requires a minimum of three to five (3-5) years as a Boarding Agent within the Tramp or Tanker section and / or another commodity.
• Experience with import/export operations at USA/Canadian or Caribbean Ports a plus.
• Proven effective managerial abilities.
• Possess good organization skills and ability to multi-task procedural and project management tasks within short time constraint situations.
• Computer experience including work with Microsoft Windows, Excel, Word and related computer exposure, preferably utilizing a laptop and multiple devices as required.
• Good verbal and written communications skills.
• TWIC card holder preferred.
• Requires a valid Driver’s License and acceptable clean / safe Motor Vehicle Record.
• Must be able to provide and maintain automobile insurance according to state laws
• Must be available to work a flexible schedule based on business needs, including days, nights, weekends, and some holidays with travel to and from the marine vessel while in Port.
• Not all aspects of the job are covered by the descriptions, other duties may be required.
• Position may change as the industry and technology evolve.

Working Conditions:

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

General office setting, typically the employee may sit comfortably to perform the work, usually at a computer terminal – with short breaks or lunch period. However, there may be some bending/stooping, reaching above shoulder level, walking; standing; carrying of light items such as papers, books, or packages of up to 25 pounds. Should be able to hear and speak clearly using phone/headset to communicate with customers; be able to navigate, view and enter information into the computer.

Works outside in conditions of both hot and cold temperatures as well as inside in an office environment. Must be able to crouch and stoop to get into areas with restricted headroom, to climb ladders and to lift and carry 50-75 lbs. Exposed to odors, dust, dirt, mechanical hazards, high noise levels and potentially hazardous equipment. Ability to board vessels in rough weather and sea conditions. Long hours, ability to travel, weekend duties and 24-hour “on-call” status are essential job requirements. Must comply with all work rules, including those that pertain to safety and health.

• Job involves frequent and extensive walking, lifting, climbing, stooping, bending, and jumping.
• Frequent walking and standing
• Frequent climbing (gangway) up to heights of six feet or more
• Occasional exposure to outside weather conditions
• Frequent and proper lifting of up to 50 pounds.

Could be required to make numerous trips to the marine vessel during its time in port to handle any issues relevant to the efficient arrival and departure of the vessel.

Ability to work flexible, full-time schedule to include days, evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Norton Lilly International is an equal opportunity employer.