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Contract Container Port Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

HMM America Inc.

Port Captain

Oakland, CA · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

Review terminal performance compared to terminal contract to identify unnecessary costs and ... Extensive knowledge of container, vessel and terminal operations. * Advanced ability to self-manage ...

Maersk

Conversion- Dispatch Specialist

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

... with Contract Drivers, partner carriers, rail operators, and port operators * Meets all customer ... Authorize equipment drops and monitor container idling * Communicate company policies and ...

Maersk

Conversion- Dispatch Specialist

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

... with Contract Drivers, partner carriers, rail operators, and port operators * Meets all customer ... Authorize equipment drops and monitor container idling * Communicate company policies and ...

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Contract Container Port information

What are Contract Container Ports?

Contract Container Ports are specific facilities at seaports where containerized cargo is handled, and where operations, such as loading and unloading, are managed under contractual agreements between port authorities, shipping lines, or terminal operators. These contracts can cover aspects like the lease of terminal space, use of equipment, and service level agreements to ensure efficient cargo movement. Working at or with a contract container port typically involves managing logistics, coordinating with shipping companies, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards. The main goal is to optimize the flow of goods and maintain smooth international trade operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Container Port Worker, and why are they important?

To excel as a Contract Container Port Worker, you need strong physical stamina, familiarity with cargo handling, and experience with port operations, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Proficiency in operating cranes, forklifts, and container tracking systems, as well as certifications in heavy equipment operation or OSHA safety, is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills to ensure smooth and safe operations. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining efficiency, safety, and reliability in a fast-paced and potentially hazardous port environment.

What are some common challenges faced by contract workers at container ports, and how can they be managed?

Contract workers at container ports often face challenges such as adapting quickly to varying schedules, working in fast-paced environments, and adhering to strict safety protocols. It is important to be flexible and proactive in communication with supervisors to stay updated on shift changes or task assignments. Building strong relationships with team members and familiarizing oneself with port operations can help contract workers integrate smoothly and perform efficiently. Staying committed to continuous learning, especially regarding safety and equipment handling, is key to success in this role.

What is the difference between Contract Container Port vs Dockworker?

AspectContract Container PortDockworker
CredentialsTypically requires OSHA safety training, forklift certification, and maritime safety coursesRequires OSHA safety training, physical fitness, and maritime safety awareness
Work EnvironmentOperates in port terminals, handling container logistics and equipmentWorks directly on ships, docks, and cargo areas, performing loading and unloading tasks
Employer & Industry UsageEmployed by port authorities, shipping companies, or contractors in maritime logisticsEmployed by shipping lines, port authorities, or labor contractors in maritime shipping

Both roles involve working in port environments and require safety certifications. However, Contract Container Ports focus on managing container logistics and equipment, while Dockworkers perform manual loading and unloading of cargo. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right role in maritime logistics.

What are popular job titles related to Contract Container Port jobs in California? For Contract Container Port jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Container Port jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Container Port jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Contract Container Port jobs? Cities in California with the most Contract Container Port job openings:
Contract Container Port jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Container Port job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 16% Internship, 66% Full Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Port Captain

HMM America Inc.

Oakland, CA • On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

GENERAL POSITION OVERVIEW

The Port Captain position has regional responsibilities for efficient and cost-effective terminal and vessel operations within the assigned region’s ports and marine terminals. Responsibilities include representing HMM with alliance members, lines, stevedores, vendors and ports to ensure smooth operations and fair treatment. Coordinate with vessel planners, agents, stevedores, terminals and vessels to ensure a cohesive vessel schedule and working plan is in place and understood by all. Additional responsibilities are managing boarding agents, vessel schedules and slot sharing agreements for the assigned region.


ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS/DUTIES
  • Act as liaison between HASA Operations and terminal management.
  • Ensure that terminals / stevedores / reefer vendors are aware of changes to vessel rotation, phase in/out.
  • Review terminal billing for marine operations and verify accuracy (volume, rate, application of contract) for all vessel calls that carry HMM cargo.
  • Manage marine expenses in the region; provide first verification of invoices from marine vendors within the assigned region while focusing on cost reduction.
  • Work with AHQ Vessel Planner to ensure that operations of all HMM vessels are planned in a safe, economical, and timely manner, including vessel stowage and labor orders.
  • Monitor vessel operations for all Alliance vessel calls and work with AHQ Marine Ops to adjust as necessary to meet port call objectives.
  • Input arrival / departure times and TDR information (i.e. discharge figures, restows by line) for vessel calls.
  • Participate in developing strategy for negotiating competitive agreements with marine vendors, terminals and ports.
  • Estimate costs of loading / discharge for sales leads for all out-of-gauge and break-bulk cargo.
  • Work closely with member lines through Alliance (LOC or other) structure to develop tactical solutions and ensure smooth operations
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
Additional Duties
  • Review partner line vessels activities for abnormalities to reduce service disruption and extra cost.
  • Review terminal performance compared to terminal contract to identify unnecessary costs and opportunities to improve
  • Schedule and attend LOC meetings in each port with partner lines on quarterly basis - continue to foster good communication between lines.
  • Report to HMM ROC member any findings that might be useful in ROC discussions.
  • Organize any break bulk operation including scheduling lashing and stowage survey.
  • Act as liaison for AHQ or Regional service center regarding equipment control, M&R, Hazardous, and Space Management etc.
  • Provide scheduled and adhoc reports as necessary.
  • Preview vessel prestow sent by AHQ Planner (review crane splits, haz, etc.) as necessary.
Region Specific Duties
  • Coordinate vessel calls with local agents to ensure that items requested (i.e. bunkers, lubes, stores, cash, and other services) are provided as needed.
  • Review master schedule for booking of vessels for Panama Canal. Keep close contact with booking agent to book vessels as needed.
QUALIFICATIONSESSENTIAL SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES
  • Extensive knowledge of container, vessel and terminal operations.
  • Advanced ability to self-manage and achieve objectives.
  • Maintain a continual improvement and positive change attitude.
  • Intermediate skills in Microsoft Office.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
  • High School diploma or GED required; Maritime Academy degree preferred.
  • At least 5 years of marine operations experience, including vessel planning.
ENVIRONMENT / EQUIPMENT / PHYSICAL DEMANDS
  • Work performed in an office environment where the noise level is moderate. Regularly required to stand, sit, and walk around the office. Frequently required to work on a computer.
  • Capable to climb steep gangway/stairs for boarding vessels while wearing personal protective gear (hardhat, safety boots, safety glasses, vest).
  • Ability to maintain focus over long, non-standard hours of work and be on call 24x7.


Join HMM and navigate the future of shipping and logistics, where you’ll grow alongside an industry leader committed to sustainability, innovation, and excellence.

About HMM America Shipping Agency:
HMM is a leading global shipping company operating over 130 state-of-the-art vessels encompassing more than 50 sea routes to over 100 ports of call. HMM strategically collaborates with customers to develop customized supply chain solutions for dry, refrigerated, and other specialized cargo.

HMM is currently ranked in the Top 8 global ocean carriers in terms of service network and market capacity. HMM has formed a global business network of vessels, terminals, railroads, trucks, and offices around the world. HMM is highly regarded as one of the world's top integrated logistics companies with a commitment to operational excellence by our team of industry professionals and state-of-the-art technology.

Additional Details:

The pay range listed for this position is the anticipated starting salary or wage range, and the final offered rate will be based on individual merit and the relative compensation of employees in similar positions. HMM employee benefits include highly subsidized individual and family insurance coverage (medical, dental and vision), term life and disability insurance, 401(k) employer matching contributions, paid holidays, and up to 10 vacation days and six sick days in the first year.

HMM provides equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or other legally protected characteristics. We will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with legal requirements. HMM participates in the E-Verify program.