Port Captain

The Port Captain is responsible for the planning, coordination, oversight, and execution of vessel and cargo operations within assigned ports, ensuring activities are conducted safely, efficiently, and in alignment with operational, commercial, and customer objectives. Serving as a key operational representative of the Company, the Port Captain acts as the primary liaison among vessel owners and operators, steamship lines, terminal operators, stevedores, labor organizations, customers, surveyors, port authorities, and other stakeholders involved in vessel and cargo operations.

Leveraging extensive maritime industry expertise and cargo-handling knowledge, the Port Captain coordinates port calls, monitors vessel performance, resolves operational challenges, and drives continuous improvement in vessel and terminal operations. The Port Captain exercises independent judgment and discretion in planning vessel operations, evaluating operational risks, allocating resources, resolving complex operational issues, and recommending and implementing operational adjustments, where authorized, that impact operational efficiency, customer service, safety performance, regulatory compliance, cost management, and overall business results. Acting as the Company's designated operational representative, the Port Captain is responsible for making real-time operational decisions necessary to support safe, compliant, and efficient vessel and cargo operations while balancing customer requirements, operational constraints, and commercial objectives.

This role requires the ability to effectively manage multiple stakeholders, maintain regulatory and safety compliance, and support the successful execution of customer requirements. Depending on operational needs, vessel schedules, cargo types, and port activities, the Port Captain may be required to work both onsite at marine terminals and aboard vessels, as well as remotely coordinate and oversee operations across multiple locations.

Specific Essential Job Duties

Vessel and Cargo Operations / Cargo Planning and Documentation

• Plan, coordinate, and oversee vessel and cargo operations to ensure the safe, efficient, and timely execution of loading, discharge, and vessel turnaround activities.
• Develop and manage cargo stowage, loading, and discharge plans while optimizing vessel utilization, operational performance, and customer service.
• Coordinate with vessel personnel, terminal operators, stevedores, customers, and other stakeholders to support seamless cargo movement and operational execution.
• Monitor production, vessel schedules, labor utilization, cargo volumes, and operational performance, implementing solutions to address delays, improve efficiency, and achieve operational objectives.
• Review, maintain, and reconcile cargo manifests, operational records, and planning documentation to ensure accuracy, compliance, and effective operational reporting.
• Evaluate operational requirements and recommend adjustments to labor, equipment, work processes, and cargo plans to maximize productivity, control costs, and support successful vessel operations.
• Exercise independent judgment in evaluating operational alternatives, prioritizing resources, and implementing or recommending solutions to address vessel, cargo, labor, equipment, scheduling, and service-related challenges.
• Maintain accurate operational data, reports, and documentation while supporting continuous improvement in cargo planning, reporting, and vessel operations.

Labor, Stevedore, and Customer Relations

• Build and maintain effective working relationships with terminal operators, stevedores, labor representatives, customers, vessel owners, steamship lines, and other key stakeholders to support successful vessel and cargo operations.
• Coordinate labor resources and operational requirements to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective execution of cargo handling activities.
• Monitor workforce productivity, operational performance, and resource utilization, recommending adjustments to staffing, equipment, and work processes as needed.
• Communicate operational objectives, vessel schedules, production performance, and service expectations to internal and external stakeholders.
• Collaborate with labor and business partners to resolve operational issues, delays, claims, and customer concerns while maintaining positive working relationships.
• Serve as a primary operational contact, ensuring timely communication, strong customer service, and effective execution of customer and vessel operator requirements.
• Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, stakeholder satisfaction, service quality, and overall business performance.

Port, Vessel, and Operational Coordination

• Coordinate vessel, cargo, and terminal operations across assigned ports to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant execution of operational activities.
• Maintain effective working relationships with port authorities, terminal operators, vessel personnel, marine service providers, customers, and other key stakeholders.
• Conduct vessel attendance, operational inspections, and site visits to monitor cargo handling, vessel readiness, operational performance, and compliance with Company and customer requirements.
• Monitor and manage vessel schedules, cargo movements, operational progress, and performance metrics, both onsite and remotely, across multiple locations.
• Identify, document, and communicate operational issues, cargo exceptions, delays, and risks, while implementing solutions to minimize disruptions.
• Prepare operational reports, inspection documentation, and status updates, providing timely communication and recommendations to management and stakeholders.
• Support operational improvement initiatives, maintain compliance with applicable port and terminal requirements, and represent the Company professionally in all external interactions.

Reporting and Operational Analysis

• Prepare, analyze, and maintain operational reports, records, forecasts, and performance metrics related to vessel operations, cargo activity, labor utilization, productivity, and schedule performance.
• Monitor operational trends, evaluate operational and business impacts, identify areas for improvement, and develop recommendations that influence operational efficiency, customer service, cost management, labor utilization, and overall business performance.
• Develop and maintain tracking tools, schedules, dashboards, and analytical reports using Excel and other business systems to support operational planning and decision-making.
• Provide operational analysis, planning recommendations, forecasting support, productivity assessments, and business improvement recommendations to management in support of strategic and operational objectives.

Safety

• Monitor and track safety key performance indicators (KPIs) and training compliance.
• Organize and lead safety meetings to promote awareness and best practices.
• Ensure adherence to company safety policies and regulations.
• Prepare and submit safety reports as required.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures and guidelines to maintain a safe and environmentally responsible work environment.
• Ensure all personnel complete and comply with mandatory regulatory training requirements.
• Maintain a professional office environment, ensuring it is well-prepared for visits from colleagues, customers, government officials, stevedores, port managers and other visitors.
• Support and enforce the NLI safety program, ensuring full compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations. Ensure proper safety gear is available to all team members.

Misc.

• Abide by company HSEQ policies and procedures.
• This job description is not exhaustive; additional duties may be assigned as needed. This role may evolve in response to changes in industry practices and technological advancements.

Qualifications & Requirements

Education / Experience:

• High school diploma or GED required; bachelor’s degree in Business, Maritime Studies, or a related field is preferred.
• Relevant experience in the maritime or port services industry is preferred.
• A combination of relevant education (e.g., degree, certifications) and hands-on experience is preferred.
• ASBA Agency Certification required or must be obtained within six (6) months of hire.

Competencies:

• Demonstrated customer service skills with a focus on responsiveness, professionalism, and solution-oriented support.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Word, Excel) and other business software, with the ability to quickly learn and adapt to new technologies and systems.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate professionally across all organizational levels, departments, and both in-office and remote teams, while effectively supporting local and port office operations.
• Works effectively independently or as part of a team.
• Proven ability to plan, prioritize, and manage multiple concurrent tasks in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
• Able to quickly adjust to shifting priorities and changing demands, delivering both short-term operational results and longer-term initiatives.
• Self-directed and accountable, demonstrating strong problem-solving skills and a results-driven mindset under pressure.

Additional Requirements:

• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license with an acceptable motor vehicle record (MVR).
• Must have reliable transportation and maintain automobile insurance in accordance with state requirements.
• Must possess or be able to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) within ninety (90) days of hire and maintain it throughout employment.
• Ability to safely board vessels using gangways, ladders, or launches.
• Ability to work in variable weather conditions and dynamic port environments.
• 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.

Working Conditions

• This position involves a combination of office-based work and shipboard duties, which includes time aboard vessels at a dock or moored/anchored location or position.
• While in the office, work is typically performed in a climate-controlled environment with standard office equipment.
• While aboard vessels, employees may be exposed to varying weather conditions, confined spaces, moving machinery, and potentially hazardous materials.
• May require climbing ladders, walking on uneven or slippery surfaces, and working in elevated or enclosed areas.
• Must be able to lift and carry equipment or supplies up to 50 pounds as needed.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including but not limited to hard hats, safety footwear, gloves, and life vests, must be worn as required by company policy, port / terminal requirements, and maritime regulations. The required PPE will be organized by your supervisor.
• Compliance with all maritime safety regulations—including U.S. Coast Guard, OSHA, and company protocols—is required. Participation in safety drills, emergency response training, and regular safety briefings are mandatory.

EEO Statement

Norton Lilly International is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.