Operating with a high degree of autonomy, the Vessel Manager is responsible for the overall planning, direction, and operational control of vessel activities. This role requires consistent exercising of independent judgment and discretion on matters of operational, financial, and regulatory significance. The Vessel Manager operates within established company objectives and management direction while independently determining appropriate actions and decisions necessary to manage assigned vessel operations.
The Vessel Manager serves as the senior operational authority for assigned vessels, making final decisions regarding vessel servicing (as applicable), vendor selection (as applicable), and resource allocation to ensure efficient vessel turnaround, cost control, and full compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The position is responsible for evaluating complex operational conditions, managing competing priorities, resolving escalated issues, and ensuring alignment with client expectations and company objectives. Decisions made in this role directly impact operational performance, financial exposure, regulatory compliance, and client relationships.
Specific Essential Job DutiesOperational Management - Serve as the primary operational decision-maker for assigned vessels, directing all aspects of port call planning, execution, and stakeholder coordination.
- Make determinations regarding vessel services (as applicable), vendor selection (as applicable), and operational priorities, ensuring efficient, compliant, and cost-effective vessel operations.
- Evaluate operational, financial, and regulatory factors, exercising independent judgment to determine appropriate courses of action and mitigate risks impacting vessel turnaround or cost.
- Oversee and approve vessel documentation, financial transactions, and disbursement accounts, exercising discretion to ensure accuracy, compliance, and cost control.
- Proactively identify, assess, and resolve complex operational issues, including service disruptions, regulatory challenges, and scheduling conflicts, with minimal supervision.
- Direct and coordinate activities of internal and external stakeholders, including terminal operators, service providers, and government agencies, to ensure seamless execution of vessel operations.
- Board vessels as needed to serve as the company's on-site representative during vessel port calls and perform onboard and documentation-related activities as necessary to support operational oversight and implementation of critical decisions.
- Provide guidance and direction to support personnel, as applicable, to ensure consistent execution of operational standards.
- Ensure readiness for on-call coverage and maintain accountability for continuous operational support, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.
Safety- Actively participate in company safety meetings and initiatives to promote awareness, share best practices, and reinforce compliance with established safety protocols.
- Maintain strict adherence to company safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements to ensure a safe and secure working environment.
- Support the NLI safety program by complying with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations and ensuring the proper use of required personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Complete all mandatory training courses and ensure compliance with relevant regulatory standards, as assigned by your management team, HR, and/or the HSEQ department.
- Follow established standard operating procedures to promote a safe, environmentally responsible, and compliant work environment.
People and Workplace - Maintain effective, professional communication with principals, customers, local port service providers, internal teams, and relevant government agencies.
- Collaborate with colleagues to achieve shared operational objectives while fostering a positive, respectful, and cooperative workplace culture.
- Demonstrate accountability, initiative, and a strong sense of urgency in achieving goals, addressing challenges, and resolving issues efficiently.
- Stay current on internal processes and expectations to ensure accurate preparation and timely delivery of Port Disbursement forecasts to clients.
- Complete all required training activities in accordance with NLI policies and established timelines.
- Actively participate in local maritime organizations - Propeller Club, etc. (specific organizations will vary based on Port and commodity).
Quality of Delivery - Ensure verbal and written communications are delivered accurately, timely, and completely.
- Ensure vessel and customer documentation is prepared, reviewed, and maintained in compliance with regulatory requirements and company standards.
Misc.- This position is expected to be performed onsite at the assigned office and aboard vessels to support collaboration and operational effectiveness.
- Comply with company HSEQ policies and procedures.
- Perform other duties as assigned; responsibilities may change based on business needs, industry practices, and technology.
Qualifications RequiredEducation / Experience: - High school diploma or GED required; bachelor's degree in Business, Maritime Studies, or a related field is preferred.
- A minimum of two (2) years of relevant experience in the maritime or port services industry is preferred.
- A combination of relevant education (e.g., degree, certifications) and hands-on experience is preferred.
- ASBA Agency Certification required or must be obtained within six (6) months of hire.
Competencies:- Demonstrated customer service skills with a focus on responsiveness, professionalism, and solution-oriented support.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Word, Excel) and other business software, with the ability to quickly learn and adapt to new technologies and systems.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate professionally across all organizational levels, departments, and both in-office and remote teams, while effectively supporting local and port office operations.
- Works effectively independently or as part of a team.
- Proven ability to plan, prioritize, and manage multiple concurrent tasks in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
- Able to quickly adjust to shifting priorities and changing demands, delivering both short-term operational results and longer-term initiatives.
- Self-directed and accountable, demonstrating strong problem-solving skills and a results-driven mindset under pressure.
Additional Requirements: - Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license with an acceptable motor vehicle record (MVR).
- Must have reliable transportation and maintain automobile insurance in accordance with state requirements.
- Must possess or be able to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) within ninety (90) days of hire and maintain it throughout employment.
- Ability to safely board vessels using gangways, ladders, or launches.
- Ability to work in variable weather conditions and dynamic port environments.
- Must be available to work a flexible schedule based on business needs, including days, nights, weekends, and some holidays with travel to and from the marine vessel while in Port.
Working Conditions- This position involves a combination of office-based work and shipboard duties, which includes time aboard vessels at a dock or moored/anchored location or position.
- While in the office, work is typically performed in a climate-controlled environment with standard office equipment.
- While aboard vessels, employees may be exposed to varying weather conditions, confined spaces, moving machinery, and potentially hazardous materials.
- May require climbing ladders, walking on uneven or slippery surfaces, and working in elevated or enclosed areas.
- Must be able to lift and carry equipment or supplies up to 50 pounds as needed.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including but not limited to hard hats, safety footwear, gloves, and life vests, must be worn as required by company policy, port / terminal requirements, and maritime regulations. The required PPE will be organized by your supervisor.
- Compliance with all maritime safety regulations-including U.S. Coast Guard, OSHA, and company protocols-is required. Participation in safety drills, emergency response training, and regular safety briefings are mandatory.
