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Port Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Port Operations Manager provides a sound, structured organization and coordinates all equipment and activity to fulfill the operational requirements of our customers with the objective of ...

The Port Operations Manager provides a sound, structured organization and coordinates all equipment and activity to fulfill the operational requirements of our customers with the objective of ...

Chief Operating Officer

Bellingham, WA · On-site

$166K - $237K/yr

JOB SUMMARY The Chief Operations Officer (COO) oversees the day-to-day management and performance of the Port's operational divisions, including Aviation, Facilities, and Maritime. Reporting directly ...

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PORT DISPATCHER

Lakewood, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

The ideal candidate will ensure smooth and efficient port operations by communicating with truck drivers, shipping companies, and terminal staff. Key Responsibilities: * Coordinate and schedule the ...

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Coordinating with logistics teams to avoid delays and ensure smooth operations. * Hauling containers to and from NY/NJ port terminals (e.g., Port Newark, Port Elizabeth, Maher, APM, GCT, PNCT) and to ...

The Port Captain will oversee the operation and maintenance of the U.S. Army vessels assigned to USAKA and will have the with the authority to accomplish the duties described herein in accordance ...

Coordinate closely with port operations, vessel schedules, trucking companies, and rail providers to ensure seamless cargo flow * Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, including OSHA ...

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Port Operations information

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$9

$24

$49

How much do port operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for port operations in the United States is $24.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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.
More about Port Operations jobs

What cities are hiring for Port Operations jobs?

Cities with the most Port Operations job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Port Operations jobs?

The most popular types of Port Operations jobs are:

What states have the most Port Operations jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Port Operations job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,239 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Port Operations Manager

SSA Marine

Van Buren, AR • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

The Port Operations Manager provides a sound, structured organization and coordinates all equipment and activity to fulfill the operational requirements of our customers with the objective of guaranteeing quality, security, safety, and efficiency in accordance with relevant operational and technical parameters. This position is part of the operations management team and is responsible for directing the supervision of the dock and terminal operations.

  • Manages the availability of equipment, supervision, and personnel required for timely completion of all scheduled operations, ensuring that staff and equipment are fully utilized, optimizing resource utilization and uptime to meet the economic performance indicators, and assisting as necessary with other required tasks to complete the operation within the scheduled time frame.
  • Establish operational policies and procedures that give clear guidance and structure for decision-making and overseeing the implementation of these policies and procedures.
  • Plans and coordinates daily operations for dock, terminal, and packaging operations and ensures that these operational plans are successfully implemented.
  • Establishes equipment and gear requirements for all operational activities and ensures that all are properly maintained, repaired, and certified as required.
  • Determines the appropriate workforce to hire for an efficient and cost-effective completion of all operational plans.
  • Manages all supervisory personnel, ensuring adherence to proper operating procedures, and as needed, will counsel, discipline, and/or make termination recommendations to ensure efficient operations.
  • Ensures that all superintendents, supervisors, operators, and laborers are properly trained for their respective job assignments.
  • Enforces productivity levels by effectively managing the operations and provides any follow-up assessments after reviewing the completed reports and forms produced by the various operations.
  • Regularly monitors worksites to ensure compliance with all Health & Safety rules and that any safety hazards are immediately addressed and corrected.
  • Ensures that all PPE is worn at all times and distributed for jobs that require additional PPE.
  • Enforces and follows plans, requirements and orders.
  • Responsible for investigating and reporting damages and liabilities to the appropriate management and authorities.
  • Serves as a key coordinator between all parties, barge line, customers, brokers, surveyors, harbor service, superintendents, supervisors, operators, and labor.
  • Ensures that all employees follow the company policies and procedures as outlined in the Employee Manual.
  • Provides a monthly recap of all barges worked and provides a recap of all packaging operations.
  • Other duties as required.
  • A minimum of 10 years of work experience supervising dock and terminal operations.
  • Thorough knowledge of dock and barge operations.
  • Proven leadership skills.
  • Knowledge of safety and accident prevention codes and regulations.
  • Knowledge and understanding of cargo stowage and load stability.
  • Required to observe all safety and health requirements for the workplace.
  • Candidates must possess a valid driver's license, a current CPR certification, and a valid TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) card.

Capabilities:

  • Ability to manage a large, complex, and diverse workforce in a fast-paced environment.
  • Requires problem-solving skills to respond quickly and effectively to operational issues.
  • Requires the ability to plan and organize projects in a fast-paced environment and be available to work varied hours, shifts, and days.
  • Requires the ability to communicate effectively with workforce, customers, third-party employees, and other staff.
  • Ability to explain, express, define, and give examples of ideas and operations.

Supervisory Responsibilities: Yes- superintendents, operators, company labor, and temporary labor

Work Environment:

  • Must be able to work in rotating shifts, days, evenings, and nights at multiple terminals.
  • Must be able to work in extreme outdoor temperatures of hot and cold, extremely dusty conditions, and occasionally, conditions of high levels of noise.
  • The ability to work in an environment that may be hazardous to persons unable to see and hear fast-moving equipment.
  • The ability to drive 10%.

Our Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer