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Port Operations Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Kirby Corporation

Port Captain - KOM

Houston, TX

The essential duties of the Port Captain position include overseeing day-to-day vessel operations, conducting inspections, and acting as a shore-side representative for a fleet of vessels.

Port Houston

Paralegal

Houston, TX · On-site

The position plays a critical role in facilitating the legal function's compliance with federal, state, and local laws and supporting port operations, real estate, procurement, environmental, and ...

Port Houston

Paralegal

Houston, TX · On-site

The positionplays a critical role in facilitating the legal function's compliance with federal, state, and local laws and supporting port operations, real estate, procurement, environmental, and ...

Pump Dynamics

Boarding Agent

Houston, TX · On-site

Board vessels in Port on a daily basis * Assist Operations Manager with planning and assigning weekly vessel rotation * Assist Operations Manager with billing procedures * Assist Port / Operations ...

TriCom Quest

Be Seen First

Project Logistics Manager - Heavy Haul, Barge, Rail, and Project Cargo

Houston, TX · On-site

$120K - $125K/yr

Knowledge of port operations, over‐dimensional transport, and project logistics * Ability to develop logistics plans for large-scale transportation from origin to destination. * Excellent written ...

GENESIS ENERGY, LLC

Port Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

We have a total design capacity of 2.3 mmbbl for Inland Marine Operations, 0.9 mmbbl for Offshore Marine Operations and 0.3 mmbbl for the M/T American Phoenix (ocean-going tanker).We provide a safe ...

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All JobsPort Operations JobsPort Operations Jobs in Houston, TX

Port Operations information

See Houston, TX salary details

$9

$23

$47

How much do port operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for port operations in Houston, TX is $23.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $26.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are port operations?

Port operations refer to the activities involved in managing and facilitating the movement of ships, cargo, and passengers through a port. This includes coordinating the loading and unloading of vessels, customs clearance, storage, security, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Efficient port operations are vital for the smooth flow of international trade and logistics, supporting global supply chains. Professionals in this field work with shipping companies, terminal operators, and government agencies to maximize port efficiency and safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in port operations, and why are they important?

To thrive in Port Operations, you need expertise in logistics, supply chain management, and port safety procedures, often backed by a relevant degree or maritime certifications. Familiarity with cargo management systems, scheduling software, and regulatory compliance tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, organizational skills, and effective communication are vital soft skills for coordinating diverse teams and managing high-pressure situations. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and compliant movement of goods, which is essential for smooth port operations and global trade.

What are some common challenges faced in a port operations role and how are they typically addressed?

Professionals in Port Operations frequently encounter challenges such as coordinating schedules across multiple stakeholders, managing unexpected delays due to weather or equipment issues, and ensuring compliance with safety and security regulations. These challenges are typically addressed through proactive communication, real-time tracking systems, and close collaboration with shipping agents, customs authorities, and logistics providers. Successful port operations teams emphasize flexibility, rapid problem-solving, and ongoing training to adapt to evolving industry standards and maintain efficient cargo flow.

What is the difference between Port Operations vs Dock Worker?

AspectPort OperationsDock Worker
Required CredentialsCertifications in logistics, safety, and equipment operationMinimal certifications, focus on physical ability and safety training
Work EnvironmentPort terminals, control centers, and logistics areasDockside, loading/unloading zones, ships and containers
Employer & Industry UsageShipping companies, port authorities, logistics firmsShipping lines, freight companies, port terminals

Port Operations involve managing the overall flow of cargo, coordinating logistics, and overseeing port activities. Dock Workers focus on physically loading and unloading ships. While both roles are essential in port environments, Port Operations professionals handle planning and management, whereas Dock Workers perform manual tasks. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right role in the maritime industry.

How much do port operations make?

Port operations roles typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specific responsibilities. Supervisory or specialized positions can pay higher, often exceeding $80,000. Skills in logistics, safety protocols, and equipment operation are important in this field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Port Operations jobs in Houston, TX?

The most popular types of Port Operations jobs in Houston, TX are:

What are popular job titles related to Port Operations jobs in Houston, TX?

For Port Operations jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Port Operations jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Port Operations jobs in Houston, TX are:

Port Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Port Operations job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,954 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Port Captain - KOM

Kirby Corporation

Houston, TX

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

The essential duties of the Port Captain position include overseeing day-to-day vessel operations, conducting inspections, and acting as a shore-side representative for a fleet of vessels. Responsibilities also involve ensuring compliance with company policies, regulations, and customer requirements, as well as coordinating repair work for navigational equipment. The role includes approving vessel purchases and requisitions, participating in incident and emergency response, and cultivating customer relations. Additionally, the Port Captain conducts performance reviews, develops safety messages, and tracks document expiration and inspections. They also participate in audits, training, incident investigations, and budget monitoring, while attending industry/customer meetings and addressing operational issues as needed.


  • Oversees day-to-day vessel operations.
  • Oversees material condition of the fleet.
  • Conducts routine and non-routine inspections of vessels.
  • Acts as shore-side representative for a fleet of vessels.
  • Implements Company policies and procedures.
  • Ensures vessel personnel operate according to regulations, procedures, and Customer requirements.
  • Oversees vessel crew assignments.
  • Performs boat visits to monitor safety standards and monitor "appearance."
  • Transfer Audits
  • Vessel Safety Audits
  • Work Place Safety Observations
  • Job Hazard Analysis
  • Coordinates repair work for all navigational equipment aboard vessels.
  • Radar, Radios, AIS, GPS, GMDSS, BNWAS, SSAS
  • Approves vessel purchases and/or places vessel purchases.
  • Approves requisitions pertaining to vessel operations for payment.
  • Actively participates in incident and emergency response including coordinating and/or conducting post-incident drug and alcohol testing.
  • Approves new vessel pilot house employees.
  • Participates in on-call duty rotation.
  • Cultivates customer relations.
  • Reviews and recommends vessel employee promotions.
  • Reviews annual performance review of vessel crew completed by Captains.
  • Conducts Captains’ performance reviews annually.
  • Develops safety messages to fleet as required.
  • Develops “Lessons Learned” for fleet distribution when required.
  • Tracks expiration of all pertinent documents for vessels and barges and coordinates ABS/USCG inspections
  • Participates in SIRE audits.
  • Participates in vessel personnel training and HSQE System.
  • Conducts incident investigations and develops corrective actions.
  • Monitors budget versus actual vessel expenditures
  • Attends industry/customer meetings as needed.
  • Counsels Vessel Captains (crew, budget, and operational issues)
  • Special projects as required.

Special Education, Training, Degree or License Required:

Experience with Tank Barge Operations including cargo handling preferred; PIC Endorsement or 1600 Ton Master License or Bachelor’s degree in related field or equivalent work experience preferred, minimum 5 years Industry experience.

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