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Port Operations Manager Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Overview East Coast Port Engineer LOCATION: Virginia Beach, VA JOB STATUS: Full Time CLEARANCE ... Ability to learn and implement Best Practices for weapon systems operation, integration process ...

Overview East Coast Port Engineer LOCATION: Virginia Beach, VA JOB STATUS: Full Time CLEARANCE ... Ability to learn and implement Best Practices for weapon systems operation, integration process ...

Store Manager

Sterling, VA · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

Terminal D and our newly acquired operations, Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) in ... a thorough Port Authority Security background check prior to receiving any final offer of ...

... Vista:12325 Port Grace Blvd, La Vista, NE 68128 Oakdale: 7755 3rd St. N, Oakdale, MN 55128 St ... NetX360, Front-End Imaging (FEI), Salesforce (contact management and imaging workflow systems), and ...

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Port Operations Manager information

See Virginia salary details

$30.7K

$62.9K

$117.5K

How much do port operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for port operations manager in Virginia is $62,912.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,600.00 and $76,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Port Operations Manager typically interact with other stakeholders within a port environment?

A Port Operations Manager regularly coordinates with a wide range of stakeholders, including shipping companies, terminal operators, customs authorities, and logistics providers. Effective communication and strong relationship-building skills are essential, as the manager must ensure that cargo operations run smoothly and efficiently while addressing any issues that arise. Collaboration with internal teams, such as safety and maintenance, is also crucial to maintain operational standards and meet regulatory requirements. These interactions help the Port Operations Manager facilitate quick turnaround times and optimize port throughput.

What is the difference between Port Operations Manager vs Port Supervisor?

AspectPort Operations ManagerPort Supervisor
ResponsibilitiesOversees overall port activities, logistics, and staff managementSupervises daily port operations and staff at a specific terminal or area
Required CredentialsRelevant certifications, experience in port logistics, possibly a degree in logistics or transportationExperience in port operations, safety training, and supervisory skills
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with on-site visits, coordinating with multiple departmentsPrimarily on-site, managing daily port activities and staff
Industry UsageCommonly used in large ports and shipping companiesUsed in port terminals and shipping facilities for operational supervision

The Port Operations Manager focuses on strategic oversight and coordination of port activities, while the Port Supervisor handles daily operational supervision at specific port areas. Both roles require relevant experience and certifications, but the manager has broader responsibilities and a higher level of oversight.

What does a Port Operations Manager do?

A Port Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a port, ensuring that cargo and vessel movements are conducted efficiently and safely. They coordinate with shipping lines, terminal operators, and customs officials to manage the flow of goods, schedule dockings, and address logistical challenges. Their duties also include supervising staff, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Ultimately, they play a key role in maintaining smooth and effective port operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Port Operations Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Port Operations Manager, you need expertise in logistics, supply chain management, and maritime regulations, usually backed by a relevant degree and experience in port or terminal operations. Familiarity with port management software, cargo tracking systems, and safety compliance certifications is typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help manage teams and coordinate with various stakeholders. These skills ensure smooth operations, regulatory compliance, and efficient cargo movement in a complex and high-pressure environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Port Operations jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Port Operations jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Port Operations Manager jobs in Virginia? For Port Operations Manager jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Port Operations Manager jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Port Operations Manager jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Port Operations Manager jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Port Operations Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Port Operations Manager job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, and 53% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,912 per year, or $30.2 per hour.

Port Engineer - Tanker

Constellation Navigation and Trading, LLC

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$79K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Port Engineer – Tanker

Lead Critical Maritime Operations. Drive Performance. Shape the Future of U.S. Shipping.

At USMMI, you won’t just manage ships—you’ll help power the backbone of U.S. commerce and national security.

As a trusted leader in the maritime industry, USMMI operates a fleet of vessels supporting both commercial trade and vital government programs, including the Military Sealift Command and the Maritime Administration’s Tanker Security Program (TSP). Our work sits at the intersection of operational excellence, engineering innovation, and mission-critical logistics.

We are known for doing things the right way — holding ourselves to the highest global standards and continuously advancing best practices aligned with OCIMF. Our team brings deep expertise in ship operations, design, and lifecycle management, enabling us to deliver smart, reliable solutions in a complex and evolving industry.

Why Join USMMI

  • Mission-Driven Work: Support operations that directly impact U.S. economic strength and national security.
  • High-Impact Role: Your decisions directly influence vessel performance, safety, and charter success.
  • Professional Respect: Work alongside experienced mariners and engineers who value expertise and leadership.
  • Growth & Ownership: Take ownership of fleet performance and drive meaningful improvements.
  • Dynamic Environment: Split time between office strategy and hands-on vessel and shipyard operations.


Your Impact

As a Port Engineer, you will take ownership of the technical performance, safety, and compliance of MR tankers operating in the Jones Act trade. You’ll serve as a critical link between shipboard teams and shoreside leadership—ensuring vessels operate safely, efficiently, and at peak readiness.

This is a role for a seasoned Chief Engineer ready to transition to the shoreside (or elevate their current port engineering career) and make a measurable impact across a fleet.

What You’ll Do

  • Lead the technical management and operational readiness of assigned vessels.
  • Partner with Masters and Chief Engineers to ensure safe, efficient voyages.
  • Plan and execute maintenance strategies, repairs, and drydock periods.
  • Own and manage vessel budgets, balancing cost control with operational excellence.
  • Drive compliance across USCG, ABS, EPA, and international regulatory frameworks.
  • Champion safety culture and proactively address risks across the fleet.
  • Analyze performance data to improve reliability, fuel efficiency, and lifecycle outcomes.
  • Troubleshoot complex engineering issues and support crews with practical solutions.
  • Oversee vendor, shipyard, and class engagements for inspections and certifications.
  • Lead incident investigations and ensure effective corrective actions.
  • Contribute to audits and vetting programs (TMSA, SIRE 2.0, ISM, ISO).
  • Advance continuous improvement initiatives aligned with OCIMF best practices.

What You Bring

Required Experience & Credentials

  • U.S. Coast Guard Chief Engineer License (Unlimited HP) with Tank Vessel endorsement.
  • 10+ years sailing as Chief Engineer on MR tankers (40,000–50,000 DWT preferred).
  • Bachelor’s degree in marine engineering or related field.
  • Strong knowledge of U.S. and international maritime regulations (USCG, ABS, SOLAS/MARPOL, TMSA, SIRE 2.0).
  • Expertise in low-speed diesel propulsion, electrical systems, cargo systems, and automation.
  • Proven experience planning and executing drydock projects and managing budgets.


Core Strengths

  • Leadership and decision-making in high-stakes operational environments
  • Strong communication across shipboard and executive stakeholders
  • Analytical mindset with a focus on performance optimization
  • Hands-on problem solving with practical, field-ready solutions

Additional Requirements

  • Valid TWIC and U.S. Passport
  • Ability to travel extensively (domestic and international, often on short notice)
  • U.S. citizenship with eligibility for Secret clearance


Preferred

  • Prior port engineer or fleet management experience
  • Advanced degree in engineering management or related discipline


Work Environment & Travel

This role blends office-based planning with hands-on field execution:

  • Location: Norfolk, Virginia – On-Site
  • Travel: Extensive travel (including foreign travel and travel in cars, boats, ships, and airplanes) will be required to attend to shipyard maintenance, to ride vessels or visit vessels for quality assurance and general management of vessel and crews, and on short notice for casualties, to conduct investigations and to protect the company’s reputation, or as directed by management
  • Physical Demands & Work Environment


The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


General office setting, typically the employee may sit comfortably to perform the work, usually at a computer terminal with short breaks or lunch period. However, there may be some bending/stooping, reaching above shoulder level, walking; standing; carrying of light items such as papers, books, or packages of up to 25 pounds. You should be able to hear & speak clearly using phone / headset to communicate with customers; be able to navigate, view & enter information on the computer.


Operations Setting: typically, the employee must be able to be in Confined Spaces, Sit, Stand, Walk, Bend, Push/Pull, Kneel, Squat, Reaching and Twisting. Can not have any Fear of Heights. Also need the ability to consistently be able to lift 10lb – 100lb utilizing Folding Hand Truck & Dolly, Rolling Utility Carts or Single Hand Trucks (70 – 100%) of time.



Our Commitment to You

At USMMI, we are committed to providing a workplace where safety, professionalism, and respect come first. We invest in our people and empower them to take ownership, lead with confidence, and grow their careers in a meaningful way.

Ready to Take the Helm Shoreside

If you’re a seasoned Chief Engineer or experienced Port Engineer looking to make a broader impact, this is your opportunity to lead, influence, and help shape the future of maritime operations.