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Pier Agent Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Pier Agent information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Pier Agent, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pier Agent, you typically need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and experience in logistics or customer service, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with port management systems, baggage handling equipment, and basic computer applications is commonly required. Excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, and a customer-oriented attitude help you manage passenger inquiries and coordinate effectively with teams. These skills ensure smooth operations, safety, and positive passenger experiences during embarkation and disembarkation processes.

What are some common challenges Pier Agents face during peak cruise embarkation and disembarkation times?

Pier Agents often encounter high volumes of passengers and luggage during peak embarkation and disembarkation periods, which can create a fast-paced and sometimes stressful environment. Managing long lines, ensuring security protocols are followed, and assisting guests who may have special needs or language barriers are typical challenges. Effective communication and teamwork with security, cruise staff, and port authorities are essential to keep operations running smoothly and to provide positive guest experiences. Adaptability and problem-solving skills are crucial for handling unexpected situations, such as delays or lost luggage.

What are pier agents?

Pier agents are professionals who work at ports or cruise terminals, assisting with the embarkation and disembarkation of passengers and cargo. They handle check-in procedures, verify travel documents, provide customer service, and coordinate with ship staff to ensure smooth operations. Pier agents also help with baggage handling, security checks, and resolving passenger inquiries or issues during boarding and arrival. Their role is crucial in maintaining efficient and safe port operations.

What is the difference between Pier Agent vs Dock Worker?

AspectPier AgentDock Worker
Required CertificationsPort security, safety trainingBasic safety, equipment operation
Work EnvironmentPort terminals, shipsideDockyards, loading areas
Employer & Industry UsageShipping companies, portsLogistics, freight companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Pier Agents and Dock Workers both operate in port environments, but Pier Agents focus on coordinating cargo, documentation, and port operations, often requiring specific certifications. Dock Workers primarily handle loading and unloading cargo, with a focus on physical labor. While their roles overlap in port logistics, Pier Agents typically have more administrative responsibilities, whereas Dock Workers are more hands-on.

Infographic showing various Pier Agent job openings in New York as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Pier Agent

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Job description

Cruise Terminal Agent

Brooklyn Cruise Terminal future interview dates:

April 25, 2025 @ Brooklyn Cruise Terminal 72 Bowne Street Brooklyn NY / Clinton's Wharf

May 28, 2025 @ Brooklyn Cruise Terminal 72 Bowne Street Brooklyn NY / Clinton's Wharf

June 30, 2025 @ Brooklyn Cruise Terminal 72 Bowne Street Brooklyn NY / Clinton's Wharf

Manhattan Terminal future interview dates:

March 12, 2025 @ Manhattan Pier 88

March 19, 2025 @ Manhattan Pier 88

March 26, 2025 @ Manhattan Pier 88

April 16, 2025 @ Manhattan Pier 88

April 30, 2025 @ Manhattan Pier 88

Basic Purpose:

This is a fast paced, high energy position requiring an enthusiastic, efficient and professional image. Agents working for SMS International Shore Operations US, Inc., direct and assist cruise guests in all aspects of shore-side operations as assigned. This position may include, but is not limited to meeting and greeting guests, computerized pier check-in along with assisting airport and hotel guest with transfers to and from the port.

Job Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Meet and greet guests cordially, responding to their inquiries in a knowledgeable and pleasant manner as well as assisting and directing debarkation and embarkation of guest.
  • Monitors the flow of traffic in the luggage area, including U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) areas.
  • Guides the flow of traffic throughout the terminal, including: secure areas, walkways, check–in areas, gangways and elevators/escalators and direct guests accordingly.
  • Answers general questions in an accurate and pleasant manner and provides pertinent information regarding boarding and sailing; takes the initiative to assist guests.
  • Escorts guests requiring wheelchair assistance throughout the terminal during embarkation and debarkation.
  • Escorts and monitors guests pending boarding status or requiring additional documentation.
  • Gathers data for various embarkation processes to include registration flow and timetables; reports findings to management, as established.
  • Assists guests with locating luggage and completing lost luggage forms, when necessary.
  • Reviews and verifies validity of all travel documents presented by guests for check-in.
  • Inputs guest travel information using the registration system and checks in each guest upon arrival. Ensures required information is accurately processed and/or paperwork is completed.
  • Provides guests with stateroom keys and pertinent boarding information, according to department manual and training.
  • Prepares the terminal and check-in area by organizing required furniture, equipment, manifests and other related materials. Clears and organizes workstations and/or areas daily and submits relevant paperwork to appropriate personnel.
  • Performs other job related duties as assigned.
Education:

High School Diploma or equivalent.

Experience:

Minimum of one-year experience in a customer service/logistics environment, preferably in the travel industry.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

Demonstrated ability to communicate in English, sufficient to provide information and answer general questions.

Knowledge of, or ability to learn practical computer skills to accurately register guests and navigate screens to perform computer based functions.

Good organizational and customer service skills.

Ability to work effectively in a multi-tasked, fast-paced environment in front of large groups.

Required to be available on weekends, after hours, and on short notice, as requested by management.

Work Conditions/ Physical Demands:

Position includes frequent standing, walking, lifting, pushing and pulling for up to 6 hour increments on average.

Ability to safely maneuver wheelchairs; includes pushing and pulling guests on wheelchairs through all terminal areas and up and down ramps.

Ability to physically transfer or assist passengers in/out of wheelchair, whose weight is approximately 100-300 lbs.

Ability to stoop, kneel, bend, crouch, lift or carry.

Position is exposed to indoor/outdoor work environment at piers and terminal locations under varying weather conditions.

Flexibility to work hours ranging from 5:00 am – 4:00 pm or until ships departures; includes weekdays, weekends and holidays in various ports as assigned.

Must have the ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.