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Ship Vessel Agent Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Vessel Agent

Metairie, LA · On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

Vessel boarding agent will work closely and independently with operations managers and team members ... Insure safe delivery of ship mail/bunker samples to and from ships and/or husbandry deliveries and ...

SubCom

Fleet Operations Manager (6601)

Baltimore, MD · On-site

... to vessel/ agent disbursement accounts, processing agent bills for payment, and agent ... Update vessel schedules and schedule forecasts in the Ship Tracking Report * Collaborate with the ...

SubCom

Fleet Operations Manager (6601)

Baltimore, MD · On-site

... to vessel/ agent disbursement accounts, processing agent bills for payment, and agent ... Update vessel schedules and schedule forecasts in the Ship Tracking Report * Collaborate with the ...

SubCom

Fleet Operations Manager (6601)

Baltimore, MD · On-site

... to vessel/ agent disbursement accounts, processing agent bills for payment, and agent ... Update vessel schedules and schedule forecasts in the Ship Tracking Report. * Collaborate with the ...

Biehl & Co. Florida, LLC.

Vessel Manager

Tampa, FL · On-site

Act as agent for companies, ship owners and ship operators to ensure that safety regulations and other policies and procedures are followed * Anticipate and resolve issues to reduce vessel movement ...

NORTON LILLY INTERNATIONAL INC

$60K - $70K/yr

Previous experience as a Vessel Boarding Agent. * In depth knowledge and understanding of Port ... Comfortable with working long, irregular hours and able to adapt to fluid ship port schedules ...

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Ship Vessel Agent information

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How much do ship vessel agent jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for ship vessel agent in the United States is $17.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ship vessel agent?

Ship Vessel Agents, also known as shipping agents or port agents, are professionals who represent the interests of a ship's owner or charterer while the vessel is in port. They handle a range of responsibilities such as coordinating with port authorities, arranging for pilotage, berthing, cargo operations, crew changes, and ensuring compliance with local regulations. Their work is crucial to ensuring smooth port calls and minimizing turnaround time for ships.

How does a ship vessel agent typically collaborate with port authorities and shipping companies during a vessel's port call?

A Ship Vessel Agent serves as the key liaison between the vessel, port authorities, and shipping companies to ensure smooth port operations. They coordinate the vessel's arrival and departure schedules, manage required documentation, and facilitate customs and immigration procedures. Effective communication and organizational skills are essential, as agents often work under tight deadlines and must quickly resolve any unexpected issues. Collaborating closely with various stakeholders, such as port officials, stevedores, and ship crew, is a crucial part of the role to ensure compliance and operational efficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ship vessel agent, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Ship Vessel Agent, you need strong knowledge of maritime regulations, logistics coordination, and port operations, often supported by experience in shipping or a related certification. Familiarity with port management software, customs documentation systems, and cargo tracking tools is typically required. Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help agents manage multiple stakeholders and resolve issues promptly. These abilities are crucial to ensure smooth vessel turnaround, compliance with regulations, and efficient cargo handling in a fast-paced environment.

What is the difference between Ship Vessel Agent vs Port Operations Coordinator?

AspectShip Vessel AgentPort Operations Coordinator
CredentialsRelevant certifications, maritime knowledgeLogistics or operations certifications
Work EnvironmentMaritime ports, shipping companiesPort facilities, shipping terminals
Employer & IndustryShipping lines, freight forwardersPort authorities, logistics firms
Search & ComparisonOften compared for port and shipping rolesRelated but broader port management

The Ship Vessel Agent primarily manages communication and coordination between ships and port authorities, focusing on vessel clearance, documentation, and logistics. The Port Operations Coordinator oversees overall port activities, including cargo handling and scheduling. While both roles operate within maritime ports and require related certifications, the Vessel Agent is more client-facing with ships, whereas the Coordinator manages port operations broadly.

What are popular job titles related to Ship Vessel Agent jobs?

For Ship Vessel Agent jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Ship Vessel Agent job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,664 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Vessel Agent

New Orleans, LA • On-site

MORAN SHIPPING AGENCIES INC
Water Transportation • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about MORAN SHIPPING AGENCIES INCexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Coordinate the arrival and departure of vessels at port destinations in accordance with client interests and regulatory standards.

  • Communicate and coordinate with vessel, government, and port officials to set berthing arrangements and oversee essential vendor services.

  • Maintain port records, monitor vendor service quality, and review vessel invoices for accuracy.

Job description

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Job Title:                      Vessel Agent

Hours:                          Full Time
FLSA Status:               Exempt 

Reports To:                 Vessel Manager

Location:                     New Orleans, LA

Classification:             In-Person


ABOUT MORAN SHIPPING

Moran Shipping Agencies, Inc. is a family-owned business that began operations in 1937 and has since grown to become the largest privately owned vessel agency in the United States. A world leader in the maritime industry, Moran operates as a vessel agency and maritime consulting firm to many of the world's most prominent ship owners, operators, and charterers. Presently Moran has 25 offices in the United States where we provide full vessel agency attendance at over 80 ports along the East, Gulf, and West Coasts, servicing all types of vessels ranging from the Ultra Large Cargo Carriers (ULCCs) to the smallest fishing boat. 

Position Overview 

We are looking for a Vessel Agent to join our operations team. This position plays a vital role in coordinating the safe and timely arrival and departure of clients' vessels at their given port destinations. Acting as a key liaison between our clients, vessels, and government/port officials, the Vessel Agent ensures smooth port operations while maintaining compliance with all regulatory and company standards. 

Key Responsibilities 

  • Ensure clients' vessels arrive and depart at their given port destinations in accordance with our clients' interest, and in conjunction with the regulations and standards set forth by governmental agencies and Moran
  • Coordinate with vessel, government, and port officials in setting berthing arrangements for each vessel
  • Contact and oversee essential vendor services, such as pilotage, towage, and labor, while preparing and submitting a proforma estimate to the Principal as it relates to port costs
  • Arrange for owner requirements when necessary and maintain a port log and other port documents and records as required
  • Maintain ongoing communications with Principal, as well as appropriate terminal personnel, shippers, receivers, vendors, and government agencies
  • Monitor the quality of services provided by vendors and review vessel invoices for accuracy in terms of service time and published tariff, if available

Qualifications

  • Education: High School Diploma
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
  • Strong interpersonal skills and excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Ability to work nights and weekends, as required by needs of assigned vessels
  • Ability to board vessels (must be able to climb ladders, sometimes at steep angles)
  • Local travel: Valid driver's license and use of personal auto is required
  • Physical or environmental demands: Extended hours, some nights and weekends
  • Must have or be able to obtain and maintain a valid TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Card)

We offer a competitive salary as well as a company sponsored 401(k) and medical/dental plans.

Only qualified individuals being considered will be contacted for an interview. 


Moran Shipping Agencies, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer