Boarding Agent

NORTON LILLY INTERNATIONAL•Saint Rose, LA

About The Position

The Marine Boarding Agent provides operational support to vessels calling at port, coordinating ship-related services in a timely, compliant, and efficient manner. The role involves direct interaction with ship crews, port authorities, vendors, and internal agency teams, including boarding vessels upon arrival, during their port stay, and before departure. The agent represents the company during port calls, handles time-sensitive deliveries, attends vessel operations, and ensures port call requirements are met. The position requires strong attention to detail, time management, and effectiveness in a dynamic environment, often outside standard business hours. The position combines office-based work with shipboard duties, which may include time aboard vessels at dock. Office work is typically performed in a climate-controlled environment using standard office equipment. Shipboard work may involve varying weather, confined spaces, moving machinery, and potentially hazardous materials. Duties may require climbing ladders, walking on uneven or slippery surfaces, and working in elevated or enclosed areas. Employees must be able to lift and carry equipment or supplies weighing up to 50 pounds as needed. Required PPE includes items such as hard hats, safety footwear, gloves, and life vests. Compliance with maritime safety requirements and participation in safety drills, emergency response training, and safety briefings are mandatory.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
ASBA Agency Certification, or ability to obtain it within six months of hire.
Valid driver’s license with an acceptable motor vehicle record (MVR), maintained throughout employment.
Reliable transportation and automobile insurance in accordance with state requirements.
Possess or be able to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) within 90 days of hire.
Ability to safely board vessels using gangways, ladders, or launches.
Ability to work in variable weather conditions and dynamic port environments.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Word, and Excel.
Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently and make sound decisions under pressure.
Demonstrated customer service skills, with responsiveness, professionalism, and solution-oriented support.
Availability to work a flexible schedule based on business needs, including days, nights, weekends, and some holidays, with travel to and from marine vessels in port.
Ability to lift and carry equipment or supplies up to 50 pounds as needed.
Ability to climb ladders, walk on uneven or slippery surfaces, and work in elevated or enclosed areas.
Compliance with maritime safety regulations, including U.S. Coast Guard, OSHA, and company protocols.

Nice To Haves

College coursework in business, management, maritime studies, or a related field.
Prior experience in marine agency services, port operations, or maritime operations.

Responsibilities

Board assigned vessels upon arrival, throughout their port stay, and prior to departure to provide agency support.
Represent the company during vessel port calls.
Deliver and collect ship documentation, parcels, crew items, and supplies to and from vessels.
Coordinate port services, including pilots, tugs, bunkers, provisions, transportation, and vessel repairs when required.
Communicate with shipmasters, vessel crews, and internal operations teams about port requirements and operational issues.
Liaise with port authorities, terminal operators, stevedores, customs, immigration, and other regulatory agencies to support vessel clearance and service execution.
Visit U.S. Immigration and Customs offices as required to submit and retrieve vessel-related documentation.
Build and maintain working relationships with vessels, shipping lines, and third-party service providers.
Respond to urgent operational needs, including after-hours requests, and participate in on-call rotations including evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.
Handle sensitive ship papers, customs forms, crew lists, permits, and other documentation.
Ensure compliance with port regulations, customs requirements, safety standards, company policies, and port security requirements.
Maintain accurate operational records and complete required regulatory and company filings.
Identify and respond to operational issues, delays, or emergencies, escalating matters when necessary.
Prepare, process, and submit required governmental and agency documents; secure approvals and maintain records.
Provide professional, courteous, and responsive service to shipmasters, crew members, and clients.
Follow company HSEQ policies and procedures.
Participate in required safety drills, emergency response training, and safety briefings.