Manager Cargo Ship Security Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Holland America Line has been exploring the world since 1873. Our ships offer innovative features and enriching experiences focused on destination exploration and personalized travel, inviting guests to savor the journey. 

The Manager, Fleet Security at Holland America Line and Seabourn is responsible for overseeing shipboard and fleet-wide security operations to ensure compliance with international, flag state, U.S., and corporate security regulations. This role involves managing security inspections, training programs, staffing oversight, and the implementation of security systems and protocols. 

The Manager will work closely with the Senior Director, Fleet Security and Company Security Officer (CSO), as well as shipboard leadership including Captains, Staff Captains, and Ship Security Officers, to maintain a high standard of security readiness and response. 

The position supports strategic planning, incident management, and regulatory compliance across both brands. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor of Science degree or equivalent experience in National or Homeland Security, Maritime Transportation Management, or a related field. 

A minimum of 5 years of experience in shipboard security, law enforcement, or maritime military service is required. Familiarity with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code and the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA) is strongly preferred. Strong leadership, analytical, and problem-solving skills are essential to balance security needs with operational efficiency. 

The Manager must be capable of developing innovative solutions that protect passengers, crew, and company assets while supporting business objectives.

Here's a summary of what Holland America Line is looking for.  Is this you? 

Responsibilities:

Ship Security Operations Management

• The Manager, Fleet Security oversees the performance and effectiveness of shipboard security programs across the Holland America Line and Seabourn fleets. This includes conducting inspections, analyzing findings, and recommending corrective actions to maintain compliance and operational integrity. The role ensures the proper functioning and maintenance of shipboard security systems, including the Ship Security Alert System (SSAS). Collaboration with Ship Security Officers and Staff Captains is essential to enforce security protocols and maintain readiness. The Manager monitors incident trends and supports the development of mitigation strategies. They also oversee the implementation of new technologies and procedures to enhance onboard security. Regular reporting and documentation are maintained to support audits and internal reviews. The position requires balancing regulatory requirements with operational realities to ensure passenger and crew safety. Continuous evaluation of security infrastructure helps identify areas for improvement and innovation.

Port Security Operations

• This accountability involves supporting the Senior Director, Fleet Security in managing security-related risks at ports and destinations. The Manager helps assess vulnerabilities associated with shore excursions and port visits, ensuring appropriate countermeasures are in place. They collaborate with port facility security officers to maintain seamless communication and alignment with local protocols. The role includes monitoring global security intelligence and integrating relevant updates into operational planning. The Manager contributes to the development of port-specific security guidelines and ensures shipboard teams are briefed accordingly. They assist in incident response efforts when port-related threats arise, including documentation and follow-up actions. Collaboration with destination teams and tour operators is key to maintaining a secure guest experience. The Manager also oversees the evaluation of port security contracts and vendor compliance. Strategic input is provided to improve port security planning and resource allocation.

Staff Development, Training and Management

• The Manager leads the Fleet Security Trainer and Security Inspector, ensuring their activities align with compliance and operational goals. They manage training programs to maintain high standards in security procedures and administrative practices. The role includes monitoring shipboard security staffing levels and working with Fleet Personnel to ensure appropriate assignments. Performance reviews and career development planning are conducted for Security Officers and Ratings. The Manager participates in recruiting, interviewing, and onboarding shipboard security personnel. They provide mentorship and feedback to support professional growth and readiness. Training content is regularly updated to reflect evolving threats and regulatory changes. The Manager fosters a culture of continuous improvement and accountability within the fleet security team. Collaboration with the CSO ensures consistency in training standards and expectations across both brands.

Security Policy Development and Compliance

• This accountability focuses on maintaining and updating Ship Security Plans (SSPs) and fleet-wide security regulations. The Manager leads to interpreting and implementing guidance from flag states, U.S. authorities, and Carnival Corporation. They ensure that shipboard teams are informed of policy changes and understand their responsibilities. The role includes heading internal and external audits by addressing findings and implementing corrective actions. The Manager contributes to the development of new policies that reflect industry best practices and regulatory updates. They maintain documentation standards to support compliance and transparency. Collaboration with legal and regulatory teams ensures alignment with international maritime laws. The Manager also evaluates the effectiveness of current policies and recommends enhancements. Their work supports the fleet's overall audit readiness and regulatory standing.

Strategic Planning Support / Cost Control

• The Manager monitors industry trends, emerging threats, and technological advancements to inform strategic security planning. They analyze incident data to identify patterns and recommend resource adjustments. The role includes contributing to the development and oversight of the department's budget. The Manager reviews security-related contracts and works with Purchasing to identify cost-saving opportunities. They ensure that expenditures align with operational priorities and compliance needs. Strategic input is provided on technology investments that enhance threat detection and response capabilities. The Manager leads special projects related to physical security, information protection, and incident investigation. They help balance security goals with financial constraints to optimize fleet-wide operations. Collaboration and alignment with senior leadership ensures that planning efforts support broader organizational objectives.

Knowledge & Skills:

Scope:

• The Manager, Fleet Security plays a critical role in supporting the Senior Director, Fleet Security and CSO in overseeing security operations across Holland America Line and Seabourn. This position spans both shipboard and shoreside environments, ensuring consistent implementation of security protocols and regulatory compliance. The role has a global reach, influencing security practices across all vessels and destinations visited by the fleet. It serves as a key liaison between shipboard leadership and corporate security governance, bridging operational execution with strategic oversight. The Manager contributes to the development and enforcement of security standards that align with international maritime regulations and company policies. By managing inspections, training, and staffing, the role ensures readiness and resilience across the fleet. The position also collaborates with the CSO in responding to emerging threats and coordinating with external regulatory bodies. Its scope includes direct interaction with ship captains, port security officials, and internal stakeholders to maintain a secure operating environment. The Manager's work directly impacts passenger and guest safety, crew welfare, and the protection of company assets.

Problem solving: 

• This role requires advanced problem-solving skills to address complex and evolving security challenges across a dynamic maritime environment. The Manager must analyze incident trends, evaluate security infrastructure, and develop tailored solutions that balance safety with operational efficiency. Anticipating potential threats-whether regulatory, technological, or geopolitical-is a key aspect of the role. The position involves interpreting diverse regulatory frameworks and adapting fleet-wide policies to meet compliance requirements. The Manager supports the CSO in identifying vulnerabilities and implementing proactive countermeasures. They must assess the effectiveness of security systems and recommend upgrades or procedural changes when deficiencies are found. The role demands critical thinking to resolve staffing gaps, training inconsistencies, and audit findings. Collaboration with shipboard and shoreside teams is essential to gather insights and validate proposed solutions. The Manager's ability to synthesize data and make informed decisions directly influences the fleet's security posture. Impact: The Manager has a significant impact on the overall growth and profitability of the HAL-SBN brand. By identifying and securing new business opportunities, the role directly contributes to revenue generation and market expansion. The role influences strategic decision-making processes, providing insights and recommendations that shape the direction of the brand's business development initiatives. The Manager's efforts in building and maintaining strong relationships with key stakeholders, including partners and clients, enhance the brand's reputation and competitive edge in the industry

Impact:

• The Manager, Fleet Security has a significant impact on the safety and operational integrity of the fleet. By working with the CSO in implementing security strategies, the role helps shape the company's approach to risk mitigation and regulatory compliance. The Manager influences the development of security policies that affect all shipboard personnel and guests. Their oversight of inspections, training, and staffing ensures that security standards are consistently upheld across both brands. The role contributes to audit readiness and helps maintain the company's reputation with regulatory authorities. Through strategic planning and cost control, the Manager supports efficient resource allocation and technological advancement. Their work enhances the fleet's ability to respond to incidents and adapt to emerging threats. The position also plays a key role in fostering a culture of vigilance and accountability within the security discipline. Ultimately, the Manager's contributions support the broader mission of safe and secure operations across global itineraries.                   

Leadership:

• This role requires strong leadership capabilities to manage shipboard security personnel, including the Fleet Security Trainer and Security Inspector. The Manager provides guidance, mentorship, and performance oversight to ensure team alignment with operational and compliance goals. While not overseeing lower-level roles like coordinators, the position leads specialized staff and collaborates with shipboard officers to enforce security protocols. The Manager supports the CSO by executing strategic initiatives and maintaining continuity in leadership during absences or high-demand periods. They are responsible for managing and overseeing training programs, staffing assignments, and career development opportunities for security personnel. Budgetary oversight includes reviewing expenditures and identifying efficiencies/inefficiencies in security operations. The Manager also leads cross-functional efforts, working with departments such as Fleet Personnel and Purchasing to support integrated security planning. Their leadership fosters a high-performing team culture focused on continuous improvement and regulatory excellence.

Requirements 

• Bachelor of Science (BS) degree or equivalent practical experience in National Security, Homeland Security, Maritime Transportation Management, or a closely related field.

• Valid certification or documented experience as a Ship Security Officer (SSO) in accordance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.

• Demonstrated proficiency in using security surveillance and screening equipment relevant to maritime operations.

• Strong computer literacy, including the ability to work with security-related software and reporting tools.

• Completion of formal training in maritime security regulations, including the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA).

• Ability to obtain and maintain any required security clearance or credentials for access to sensitive operational areas.

• Must meet eligibility requirements for travel to international ports and destinations.

• Fluent in English, with strong written and verbal communication skills suitable for regulatory and operational documentation.

• Must be able to work flexible hours and travel as needed to support fleet operations.

• Minimum of 5 years of direct experience in maritime security operations, either shipboard or shoreside, with demonstrated leadership responsibilities.

• Proven track record of managing or supporting security programs in compliance with international maritime regulations such as ISPS and MTSA.

• Experience conducting security inspections, audits, and incident investigations in a maritime or law enforcement setting.

• Background in law enforcement (e.g., police, FBI) or maritime military service (e.g., U.S. Coast Guard, Royal Marines) with operational security responsibilities.

• Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor specialized security personnel, including trainers and inspectors, in a multi-brand fleet environment.

• Hands-on experience with shipboard security systems such as the Ship Security Alert System (SSAS) and surveillance technologies.

• Familiarity with regulatory reporting, documentation standards, and audit readiness processes.

• Experience colla...