1

Vessel Agent Ship Agent Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Join our team as a Port Operations Agent where you are expected to independently oversee agency ... Attend vessel ship calls and act as a primary liaison between Cruise Line, port authorities and ...

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

Customer Service Representative

Houston, TX · On-site

$14.50 - $19.75/hr

Act as ship agent (cleaning, fueling) when required. * Assess all criteria to determine shore ... to EMR resolution, vessel repairs with M&R, crewing deficiencies, etc. * All other duties as ...

Customer Service Representative

Houston, TX · On-site

$14.50 - $19.75/hr

Act as ship agent (cleaning, fueling) when required. * Assess all criteria to determine shore ... to EMR resolution, vessel repairs with M&R, crewing deficiencies, etc. * All other duties as ...

Customer Service Representative

Houston, TX · On-site

$14.50 - $19.75/hr

Act as ship agent (cleaning, fueling) when required. * Assess all criteria to determine shore ... vessel repairs with M&R, crewing deficiencies, etc. * All other duties as assigned. * Follow ...

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 ...

Customer Service Representative

Houston, TX · On-site

$14.50 - $19.75/hr

Act as ship agent (cleaning, fueling) when required. * Assess all criteria to determine shore ... to EMR resolution, vessel repairs with M&R, crewing deficiencies, etc. * All other duties as ...

Customer Service Representative

Houston, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $20.75/hr

Act as ship agent (cleaning, fueling) when required. * Assess all criteria to determine shore ... to EMR resolution, vessel repairs with M&R, crewing deficiencies, etc. * All other duties as ...

Boarding Agent

Beaumont, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $20/hr

... of ships' arrivals and departures. The Boarding Agent works under the direct supervision and training of the Port Manager and/or Vessel Manager. Key Responsibilities: * Orchestrate movements of ...

AI Agent Product Manager

New York, NY · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

You'll design Mia's behavior, ship production-ready multi-agent workflows, and turn real-world healthcare complexity into systems that actually hold up on live calls. This is a rare seat: you'll get ...

AI Agent Product Manager

Austin, TX · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

You'll design Mia's behavior, ship production-ready multi-agent workflows, and turn real-world healthcare complexity into systems that actually hold up on live calls. This is a rare seat: you'll get ...

Showing results 21-40

Vessel Agent Ship Agent information

See salary details

$20K

$52.6K

$97K

How much do vessel agent ship agent jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for vessel agent ship agent in the United States is $52,614.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $61,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a vessel agent do?

A Vessel Agent, also known as a Ship Agent, acts as the main point of contact between a ship and the port authorities, coordinating all activities required for the vessel's arrival, stay, and departure. They handle documentation, arrange for pilotage and towage, coordinate cargo operations, and ensure compliance with local regulations. Vessel Agents also liaise with customs, immigration, and other port services, making sure the ship's needs are met efficiently and cost-effectively. Their work is crucial to the smooth and timely turnaround of ships in port.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a vessel agent?

To thrive as a Vessel Agent (Ship Agent), strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of maritime regulations and logistics are essential, often supported by relevant maritime or logistics education. Familiarity with shipping management software, port operating systems, and documentation protocols is typically required. Exceptional communication, negotiation, and problem-solving abilities help agents coordinate effectively with ship crews, port authorities, and service providers. These skills are critical to ensure efficient vessel turnaround, compliance with regulations, and smooth operations in a dynamic harbor environment.

What are some of the biggest challenges vessel agents face when coordinating port calls, and how can they be managed?

One of the main challenges Vessel Agents encounter is managing last-minute changes in vessel schedules, cargo requirements, or port regulations. These changes require quick problem-solving and effective communication with ship crews, port authorities, and service providers to avoid delays or added costs. Staying organized, maintaining strong relationships with all stakeholders, and being proactive in monitoring vessel movements can help Vessel Agents navigate these challenges successfully. Additionally, familiarity with digital port management systems can enhance efficiency and responsiveness.

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

AspectVessel Agent/Ship AgentPort Agent
CredentialsMaritime certifications, shipping licensesMaritime certifications, port authority licenses
Work EnvironmentOnboard ships, port terminals, shipping officesPort facilities, shipping terminals, offices
Employer & Industry UsageShipping companies, vessel ownersPort authorities, terminal operators
Search & Comparison IntentVessel operations, ship handling, maritime logisticsPort operations, cargo handling, port services

Vessel Agent/Ship Agent primarily manages vessel logistics and communication with ship owners, while Port Agents focus on port operations and cargo handling. Both roles are essential in maritime logistics but differ in scope and environment.

How much do vessel agents make?

Vessel agents typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the shipping company. Senior or specialized vessel agents with certifications can earn higher salaries, and the role often involves working in port environments with irregular hours.

How to become a vessel agent?

To become a vessel agent, typically one needs relevant maritime or logistics experience, strong communication skills, and knowledge of port operations and shipping regulations. Many start by gaining experience in shipping, freight forwarding, or port services, and some pursue certifications such as the Certified Port Executive (CPE) or similar credentials. Building industry contacts and understanding vessel scheduling, documentation, and cargo handling are also important for success in this role.

What is the role of a vessel agent ship agent?

A vessel agent, or ship agent, acts as a liaison between ship owners, operators, and port authorities to coordinate the arrival, stay, and departure of ships. They handle tasks such as booking port services, customs clearance, cargo documentation, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Strong communication skills and knowledge of maritime procedures are essential for this role.

What cities are hiring for Vessel Agent Ship Agent jobs?

Cities with the most Vessel Agent Ship Agent job openings:

What states have the most Vessel Agent Ship Agent jobs?

States with the most job openings for Vessel Agent Ship Agent jobs include:

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

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

Infographic showing various Vessel Agent Ship Agent job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,614 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Boarding Agent, Maritime Ship Agent

Baltimore, MD • On-site

T. Parker Host
Water Transportation • 201 - 500 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Dating back to a century ago in 1923, T. Parker Host quickly developed a strong reputation for offering exceptional service and solutions as a ship agency. HOST is the largest dry bulk agent in the United States and handles nearly 4,000 vessels annually, including dry bulk, breakbulk, tankers and cruise ships. As agents, we represent principals from around the world and coordinate directly with both local and international parties for every ship we're appointed - improving efficiency for our customers. Host Agency continues to develop a strong worldwide network of relationships throughout the maritime community.
In addition to immediately serving our customers' vessels, we offer a range of services to add value and support throughout the supply chain - from forwarding and documentation, to commodity reporting, to cargo monitoring.
Position Summary:
Entry-level position and springboard to embark on a career in the maritime field. Liaise with pilots, tug boats, linemen, US Customs and Border Protection, US Coast Guard, cargo interests and vessel owners to ensure safe and efficient vessel operations while in port. Excellent opportunity for those looking to spend time in the field, as well as time in the office, handling communications and port expenses. Must be comfortable with a flexible schedule, working nights and weekends as needed based on vessels' schedules.
Essential Responsibilities and Duties:
Operations Management
  • Boarding of vessels at marine facilities and mid-stream locations
  • Coordinate berthing assignments and order pilots, tugs, and linesmen for vessels
  • Coordinate and order vessel husbandry services within authorized funding limits
  • Provide timely and accurate responses to incoming email requests for assigned ships and general office traffic when required
  • Draft, execute, and dispatch commercial documentation with timeliness and accuracy
  • Be contactable at all times while on call and maintain readiness to respond to vessel requirements and changes of boarding schedules after office hours
  • Follow Company Standard Operating Procedures and seek guidance when modifications for specific calls or other questions arise
  • Travel to and provide operations support to other ports when required by the Host management team
  • Assist in the training and onboarding of new team members as required

Regulatory
  • Coordinate with U.S. Government Agencies to prepare and submit required documents, verify successful filings of reporting notices, and schedule necessary vessel attendances within required time frames
  • Verify successful filing of cargo import, entry, and export manifests within required time frames

Service
  • Maintain professional acumen and a customer service mindset when dealing with Host customer, stakeholder and industry relationships

Education, Knowledge, Experience, Skills and Abilities Required:
  • Prior customer service experience, required. Prior agency experience, a plus.
  • Transitioning military personnel and veterans encouraged to apply.
  • Must have valid driver's license with clean driving record.
  • Strong interpersonal skills including excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Self-motivated and able to multi-task in a constantly changing work environment
  • Analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to manage high volumes of electronic communication, both in office and while mobile in the field
  • Ability to work evenings, weekends, holidays and adapt to fluid ship port schedules in 24/7/365 port operations
  • ASBA agency certified or willing to become within first three months of employment

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to board vessels via gangway and/or pilot ladder alongside berth and over open water
  • Climbing, ascending, descending ladders, stairs, ramps using feet and legs and/or hands and arms
  • Must be able to lift and carry 50 lbs
  • Subject to inside and outside environmental conditions (cold, heat, wind, rain, snow)

HOST, and its affiliated companies, is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.
Skills & Requirements Qualifications