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Port Terminal Operations Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... to port at any time 24 hours a day, seven days a week including holidays and weekends. * Must pass all required safety and terminal operations training. * To work safely and incident free. * Must ...

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... to port at any time 24 hours a day, seven days a week including holidays and weekends. * Must pass all required safety and terminal operations training. * To work safely and incident free. * Must ...

Los Angeles, CA - LOS Terminal The Los Angeles operation offers a combination of local port work ... and higher-earning Inland Empire freight , with approximately 20-30+ moves available per week

Los Angeles, CA - LOS Terminal The Los Angeles operation offers a combination of local port work ... and higher-earning Inland Empire freight , with approximately 20-30+ moves available per week

Los Angeles, CA - LOS Terminal The Los Angeles operation offers a combination of local port work ... and higher-earning Inland Empire freight , with approximately 20-30+ moves available per week

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Port Terminal Operations information

What are port terminal operations?

Port terminal operations refer to the activities involved in managing the movement, storage, and handling of cargo at a port's terminal. These operations include loading and unloading ships, warehousing, customs clearance, and coordinating logistics between sea, land, and sometimes air transport. Effective terminal operations are crucial for ensuring the efficient flow of goods and minimizing delays, which supports global trade and supply chains. Modern port terminals often use advanced technology to track shipments, automate processes, and enhance safety and security. The staff involved may include crane operators, logistics coordinators, customs officials, and equipment maintenance teams.

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

Thriving in Port Terminal Operations requires knowledge of logistics, cargo handling, safety regulations, and often a relevant degree or certification in transportation or supply chain management. Familiarity with terminal operating systems (TOS), inventory management software, and equipment such as cranes and forklifts is typically expected. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help professionals manage schedules, coordinate with diverse teams, and adapt to dynamic environments. These skills and qualifications ensure efficient, safe, and timely movement of goods, which is critical to successful port operations.

What are some typical challenges faced in port terminal operations, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Port Terminal Operations often encounter challenges such as coordinating the efficient flow of cargo, managing unexpected shipping delays, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. These challenges require strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication with shipping lines and customs officials, and adaptability to changing schedules. To address these issues, teams often rely on advanced logistics software, regular safety training, and close collaboration between operations, maintenance, and security departments. Emphasizing teamwork and proactive planning helps ensure smooth terminal operations and timely cargo handling.

What is the difference between Port Terminal Operations vs Port Terminal Clerks?

AspectPort Terminal OperationsPort Terminal Clerks
Primary ResponsibilitiesOverseeing cargo handling, equipment management, and operational efficiencyProcessing documentation, data entry, and administrative support
Required SkillsLogistics, safety protocols, equipment operationAdministrative skills, attention to detail, communication
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, active, operational settingsIndoor, office-based
CertificationsLogistics, safety certifications often preferredAdministrative or clerical certifications

Port Terminal Operations focus on managing the physical and logistical aspects of port activities, while Port Terminal Clerks handle administrative tasks. Both roles are essential in port environments but differ in responsibilities, skills, and work settings.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Port Terminal Operations jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Port Terminal Operations job openings:

Infographic showing various Port Terminal Operations job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Chesapeake, VA • On-site

Tidewater Staffing
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 51 - 200 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Seeking Heavy Equipment Operators for work located in Norfolk, Chesapeake and Portsmouth, VA. All candidates are required to pass a test.

Responsibilities:

  • Be at designated work station and ready to work at the start of the designated shift
  • Perform daily checks of rolling stock and report any maintenance requirements to the supervisor.
  • Properly operate equipment including heavy equipment on below list and being observed to demonstrate proficiency in all aspects of operating each piece of equipment.
  • Load trucks, trailers and/or railcars in accordance with picking ticket provided by Customer Service
  • Notify Customer Service when a load is completed and verbally confirm load information
  • Load and Unload vessels, barges, trucks, trailers and/or railcars
  • Perform position assigned duties at docks or other areas of the terminal as trained and according to needs of terminal operations.
  • Execute daily work instructions and perform other duties as assigned from Supervisor in a timely manner.
  • Maintain and take care of any assigned equipment, tools and uniforms


Heavy Equipment List

  • Volvo L120
  • Volvo L180
  • Cat 914
  • Cat 926
  • Cat 938
  • Genie S60
  • Genie 105
  • Bronson Sweeper
  • JD 544
  • Cat 1055


Authority:

  • To “Tag Out” any equipment that is in need of maintenance
  • To give instructions to Material Handler I (not disciplinary action)


Expectation:

  • Must be flexible with work schedule to accommodate incoming vessels and barges coming to port at any time 24 hours a day, seven days a week including holidays and weekends.
  • Must pass all required safety and terminal operations training.
  • To work safely and incident free.
  • Must wear necessary personal protection equipment at all times.
  • Must utilize two-way radio communications, respond to all radio checks and radio summons.
  • Must work in an environment that is mainly outside with exposure to heat, cold and rain or in buildings without heating or air conditioning.
  • Must work in an environment with exposure to mud, dirt, dust and other small air borne particles.
  • Establish and maintain good customer relations with drivers and treat them in a respectful manner.
  • Ensure the safety and well being of drivers.

Tidewater Staffing logo

About Tidewater Staffing

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Since 1992, Tidewater Staffing, Inc. (TSI) has been providing unrivaled workforce solutions for our clients in the ship repair, warehousing, and light industrial/manufacturing industries. Through the years, we’ve dedicated ourselves to solving staffing challenges efficiently, economically, and with integrity by embodying our mission statement: “Put people to work. Do the right thing every day.” Our deep industry experience and established local presence allow us to maintain a consistent, updated, and expansive network of skilled candidates, and our proprietary digital onboarding process. When you partner with Tidewater Staffing, you get employees who are trained, screened, supplied, and access to our proprietary digital onboarding process.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Virginia Beach, VA, US

Year founded

1992