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Port Controller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ECZF is actively developing its second campus -- the Bowen Aquarium in Port Canaveral -- and operates a third site through its Restore Our Shores program. The Controller is a senior member of the ...

APM Terminals The HSSE Permit Controller Lead oversees the full lifecycle of high-risk work permits ... Appetizer: At APM Terminals, a global leader in port and terminal operations, we enable global ...

Project Controller

Edgemoor, SC · On-site

$100K - $155K/yr

OVERVIEW We are currently seeking a Project Controller for our Port Delaware Container Terminal job in Edgemoor, DE . As a fourth-generation, family-owned business, Walsh recruits individuals who are ...

Every airport, road, bridge, port, or transit project is an opportunity to make communities safer ... Your Opportunity We are seeking an experienced Document Controller to support a large, complex ...

Every airport, road, bridge, port, or transit project is an opportunity to make communities safer ... Your Opportunity We are seeking an experienced Document Controller to support a large, complex ...

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Port Controller information

See salary details

$55K

$119.5K

$175.5K

How much do port controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for port controller in the United States is $119,497.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,000.00 and $138,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a port controller?

Port Controllers are professionals responsible for managing and overseeing the movement of ships, cargo, and people within a port or harbor. They coordinate vessel traffic, ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations, and communicate with ship operators, port authorities, and other stakeholders. Port Controllers play a critical role in ensuring the efficient and safe operation of port activities, helping to minimize delays and maximize productivity.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a port controller?

To thrive as a Port Controller, you need strong knowledge of port operations, logistics, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by experience in maritime or transportation management. Familiarity with port management software, vessel tracking systems, and relevant safety certifications is essential. Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help coordinate complex schedules and resolve operational issues. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant movement of goods and vessels within the port.

What are common challenges faced by port controllers and how can they be managed effectively?

Port Controllers often encounter challenges such as coordinating logistics with multiple shipping lines, handling unexpected delays due to weather or customs, and ensuring accurate documentation for cargo movements. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are key to overcoming these hurdles. Many successful Port Controllers develop close working relationships with port authorities, shipping agents, and logistics teams to quickly resolve issues and keep operations running smoothly.

What is the difference between Port Controller vs Dock Worker?

AspectPort ControllerDock Worker
Required CredentialsTypically high school diploma, safety certifications, and sometimes maritime or port-specific trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety and equipment operation training
Work EnvironmentOffice-based planning and coordination at port facilities, with some on-site supervisionPhysical labor on docks, handling cargo and operating equipment
Employer & Industry UsagePort authorities, shipping companies, logistics firmsStevedoring companies, shipping lines, port terminals

Port Controllers focus on coordinating port operations, managing schedules, and overseeing safety protocols, often working in an office setting. Dock Workers perform physical tasks such as loading and unloading cargo, working directly on the docks. Both roles are essential in port logistics but differ in responsibilities, work environment, and required credentials.

More about Port Controller jobs

What states have the most Port Controller jobs?

States with the most job openings for Port Controller jobs include:

Infographic showing various Port Controller job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,497 per year, or $57.5 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description


Responsibilities

Please note: This position is contingent upon the candidate successfully obtaining Key Billet Approval (KBA) from the relevant government agency.

Who We Are:

As a privately held, U.S.-owned and operated company, Crowley provides services to 36 nations and island territories. Our purpose is to bravely advance what's possible to elevate people and planet, with our core values of Integrity, Sustainability and Drive guiding everything we do.

By expanding and innovating our services, we have expanded our footprint in services within the Logistics, Land Transportation, Shipping, Wind and Fuel industries. Crowley and its affiliated companies have generated more than $3.5 billion in annual revenue through our people's focus on excellence and a culture that values everyone's voices and collaboration. 

To continue laying the groundwork and challenge what's possible for our business, we seek to partner with individuals ready to elevate their careers with us.

Work Arrangement:

Hybrid

Why Join Crowley:

This opportunity offers the chance to make a difference by partnering with the US Government and contributing to our nation's growth and defense. 

What You'll Do:

Responsible for coordinating and overseeing the maintenance, repair and safe operations of all the engineering needs for assigned vessels and equipment

Key Responsibilities:

       Develop repair specifications and manage the repair of the vessels by overseeing all activities directly related to the repairs.

       Liaison with the vessel Chief Engineer/Captain on required maintenance needs.

       Manage and negotiate contractor selection, contract management and contractors work by setting up service to vessels, ensuring regulatory inspections are scheduled timely and controlling expenditures within designated projects.

       Monitor and coordinate vessel certification inspections with external and internal customers.

       Regularly attend vessels during times of out of service or dry-docking. Work with warehouse personnel requesting fleet spare equipment be dispatched to support the upkeep of the vessels.

       Create PO's/WO's, review and close outstanding maintenance jobs, review/approve requisitions and review vessel reports.

       Work with buyers to assist in the purchasing of supplies. Complete POs of work performed, adjust and update financial information to allow for payment matching to the invoice.

       Develop maintenance and repair cost analysis sheets and monitor the budget.

       Assist in the development and modification of preventative maintenance plans for vessel equipment.

       Ensure the engineering procedures and policies are periodically reviewed, modified and implemented.


Qualifications

Education & Credentials:

       An engineering-related degree (e.g. Marine Engineer, Marine Architecture; Mechanical Engineering). A bachelor's degree will count for three years' total education experience. A Master's degree or higher will count for an additional one year of experience. Therefore, engineering degree(s) will count for no more than four years' total experience.

       Experience gained while employed by a shipyard in a management position

       Serving active duty in the military performing duties substantially the same as a Port Engineer. This experience shall demonstrate their ability to manage and negotiate complex projects such as shipyard dry dock overhauls and other types of repairs on ocean-going ships.

Experience:

Candidates need to meet at least 1 of the following qualifications:

       Possess a minimum of three years' experience as a Port Engineer having managed and negotiated at least two shipyard dry-docking availabilities with and value greater than three million dollars.

       Experience gained while employed by a shipyard or while serving active duty in the military may be applicable towards meeting this requirement if the duties and responsibilities of the positions are substantially the same as a Port Engineer.

       This experience shall demonstrate their ability to effectively manage and negotiate complex projects such as shipyard dry dock overhauls and other types of repairs.

       Possess a minimum of four years' experience serving aboard Government or commercial ocean-going ships of not less than 4,000 HP as either a Chief Engineer or a First Assistant Engineer.

       This experience shall demonstrate effective management of maintenance and repair of ocean-going ships.

Technical Skills:

       Proficient in Microsoft Office products, including Excel, Outlook and Word.

       Knowledgeable of SAMM ship management software, computer technology and processes preferred.

Working Conditions:

Works both inside an office environment and also outside in conditions of both high and low temperatures. May be exposed to odors, dust, dirt, mechanical hazards, high noise levels and potentially dangerous equipment. May require extended use of computer keyboard and viewing of computer monitor and ability to sit for long periods of time.

What We Offer? 

We inspire top talent by offering a comprehensive and competitive package that supports the diverse needs of our people-on land, at sea, in offices, and remotely.

Our Total Rewards include:

       Competitive pay with recognition programs 

       Comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, and vision insurance, life and disability coverage, and paid vacation and holidays

       Leave and family support: parental leave and sick leave

       Learning and growth: access to training and development for continuous skill development

       Well-being resources: Employee Assistance Program, wellness program, and gym membership discounts

At Crowley, we invest in you-your success, your health, and your future.

Qualifications:

Education & Credentials:

       An engineering-related degree (e.g. Marine Engineer, Marine Architecture; Mechanical Engineering). A bachelor's degree will count for three years' total education experience. A Master's degree or higher will count for an additional one year of experience. Therefore, engineering degree(s) will count for no more than four years' total experience.

       Experience gained while employed by a shipyard in a management position

       Serving active duty in the military performing duties substantially the same as a Port Engineer. This experience shall demonstrate their ability to manage and negotiate complex projects such as shipyard dry dock overhauls and other types of repairs on ocean-going ships.

Experience:

Candidates need to meet at least 1 of the following qualifications:

       Possess a minimum of three years' experience as a Port Engineer having managed and negotiated at least two shipyard dry-docking availabilities with and value greater than three million dollars.

       Experience gained while employed by a shipyard or while serving active duty in the military may be applicable towards meeting this requirement if the duties and responsibilities of the positions are substantially the same as a Port Engineer.

       This experience shall demonstrate their ability to effectively manage and negotiate complex projects such as shipyard dry dock overhauls and other types of repairs.

       Possess a minimum of four years' experience serving aboard Government or commercial ocean-going ships of not less than 4,000 HP as either a Chief Engineer or a First Assistant Engineer.

       This experience shall demonstrate effective management of maintenance and repair of ocean-going ships.

Technical Skills:

       Proficient in Microsoft Office products, including Excel, Outlook and Word.

       Knowledgeable of SAMM ship management software, computer technology and processes preferred.

Working Conditions:

Works both inside an office environment and also outside in conditions of both high and low temperatures. May be exposed to odors, dust, dirt, mechanical hazards, high noise levels and potentially dangerous equipment. May require extended use of computer keyboard and viewing of computer monitor and ability to sit for long periods of time.

What We Offer? 

We inspire top talent by offering a comprehensive and competitive package that supports the diverse needs of our people-on land, at sea, in offices, and remotely.

Our Total Rewards include:

       Competitive pay with recognition programs 

       Comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, and vision insurance, life and disability coverage, and paid vacation and holidays

       Leave and family support: parental leave and sick leave

       Learning and growth: access to training and development for continuous skill development

       Well-being resources: Employee Assistance Program, wellness program, and gym membership discounts

At Crowley, we invest in you-your success, your health, and your future.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME