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Port Agent Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Boarding Agent

Beaumont, TX ยท On-site

$14.75 - $20/hr

The Boarding Agent works under the direct supervision and training of the Port Manager and/or Vessel Manager. Key Responsibilities: * Orchestrate movements of vessels to include but not limited to ...

Port Houston offers competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and a diverse, inclusive work ... Foam inventory and suppression agent management * Hazmat cache management * Procurement support

Port Houston offers competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and a diverse, inclusive work ... Foam inventory and suppression agent management * Hazmat cache management * Procurement support

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Port Agent information

See Texas salary details

$13

$28

$37

How much do port agent jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for port agent in Texas is $28.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.97 and $36.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a port agent?

Port agents, also known as shipping agents, act as intermediaries between shipowners or operators and port authorities. They manage various administrative and logistical tasks when a vessel is in port, such as coordinating docking, handling customs paperwork, arranging crew changes, and organizing supplies or repairs. Their role is crucial for ensuring a ship's efficient turnaround and compliance with local regulations. Port agents work closely with shipping companies, government agencies, and local service providers to facilitate smooth port operations.

What are some common challenges port agents face when coordinating vessel arrivals and departures?

Port Agents often manage tight timelines and complex logistics when coordinating vessel arrivals and departures. They must communicate effectively with ship crews, port authorities, customs officials, and service providers to ensure smooth operations, even when schedules change unexpectedly. Adapting quickly to last-minute updates, weather disruptions, or regulatory requirements is a regular part of the role. Strong organizational skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure help Port Agents overcome these challenges and ensure vessel turnaround is efficient.

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

To thrive as a Port Agent, you need in-depth knowledge of maritime regulations, logistics coordination, and shipping documentation, often supported by relevant maritime or logistics education. Familiarity with port management software, cargo tracking systems, and international shipping protocols is typically required. Strong negotiation, organizational, and communication skills help build relationships with clients, authorities, and vessel crews. These abilities are crucial for ensuring smooth vessel turnaround, regulatory compliance, and efficient port operations.

What is the difference between Port Agent vs Shipping Coordinator?

AspectPort AgentShipping Coordinator
Required CredentialsMaritime certifications, knowledge of port proceduresLogistics or supply chain certifications, organizational skills
Work EnvironmentPort terminals, ships, maritime officesOffice settings, shipping companies, logistics hubs
Employer & Industry UsageMaritime shipping, port authoritiesShipping lines, freight companies

While both roles are involved in maritime logistics, a Port Agent primarily manages ship port calls, handling documentation and port procedures. A Shipping Coordinator focuses on coordinating shipments, scheduling, and logistics planning. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the maritime industry.

What cities in Texas are hiring for Port Agent jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Port Agent job openings:

Infographic showing various Port Agent job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, and 42% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,417 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Boarding Agent

Biehl & Co. Texas, LLC.

Beaumont, TX โ€ข On-site

$14.75 - $20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Role Objectives:   Boarding Agent is responsible for fulfilling ship owner service requests, preparation of paperwork and compliance related to incoming and outgoing ships, as well as to order appropriate resources for and notify port authorities of ships’ arrivals and departures.  The Boarding Agent works under the direct supervision and training of the Port Manager and/or Vessel Manager. 
Key Responsibilities:

  •  Orchestrate movements of vessels to include but not limited to pilots, tugs, lines, and bunkering. 
  • Generate necessary government forms. 
  • Use Agency operating system as appropriate to perform job duties. 
  • Communicate daily updates with principals and terminals 
  • Financial responsibilities include but not limited to: 
    • Calculate Preliminary Disbursement Accounts (PDAs) 
    • Approve invoices 
    • Generate accounting sheet 
  • Coordinate owner’s requirements, including waste provisions, stores, spares, ship repair/maintenance, needs for crew, supply delivery, etc. 
  • Prepare and sign Bills of Lading with Principal and Port Manager approval. 
  • Prepare and sign Statement of Facts 
  • Other duties as assigned. 
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

  • Organizational skills
  • Ability to learn quickly
  • Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
  • Availability to work nights, weekends, and holidays and to be “on call” 24/7, in case of emergency
  • Learn and use agency OS
  • Simple math skills and basic statistics required to calculate port expenses and tariffs
  • Familiar with various types of vessels/cargo
  • Familiar with local port areas
Education/Experience:

  • High school diploma or GED preferred
  • Prior experience with ships, tugs, etc. and accompanying paperwork requirements preferred
  • Prior Agency experience
Physical Requirements: 

  • Required to ascend and descend ladders, stairs, scaffolding, and ramps; reach; stand; walk; talk; and hear
  • Must exert up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, 10 pounds frequently, and a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects
  • Close visual acuity is required to perform activities such as analyzing figures, viewing a computer terminal, extensive reading, visual inspection, and using measurement devices
  • Worker is subject to environmental conditions both inside and outside, with no effective protection from weather, with sufficient noise to cause the worker to shout to be heard, and to physical hazards, such as moving parts, vehicles, electricity, heights, and large bodies of deep water