Marine Boarding Agent

NORTON LILLY INTERNATIONAL•Metairie, LA

18h

About The Position

The Marine Boarding Agent provides comprehensive 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 performs time-sensitive deliveries, attends vessel operations, and ensures port-call requirements are met. The position requires attention to detail, strong time management, and the ability to work effectively in a dynamic, fast-paced 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 variable weather, confined spaces, moving machinery, and potentially hazardous materials. The role 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. Required PPE must be worn as applicable, and participation in safety drills, emergency-response training, and regular safety briefings is 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.
Reliable transportation and automobile insurance meeting 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.
Customer service skills, with a focus on responsiveness, professionalism, and solution-oriented support.
Availability for a flexible schedule based on business needs, including days, nights, weekends, and some holidays, and travel to and from vessels in port.
Ability to climb ladders, walk on uneven or slippery surfaces, and work in elevated or enclosed areas.
Ability to lift and carry equipment or supplies weighing up to 50 pounds as needed.
Compliance with applicable maritime safety regulations, including U.S. Coast Guard and OSHA requirements, and company protocols.
Ability to wear required personal protective equipment, including items such as hard hats, safety footwear, gloves, and life vests.

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 before departure to provide agency support.
Serve as the company’s official representative during vessel port calls.
Deliver and collect ship documentation, parcels, crew items, and required supplies to and from vessels.
Coordinate port services, including pilots, tugs, bunkers, provisions, transportation, and vessel repairs when required.
Communicate with ship masters, 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 timely vessel clearance and service execution.
Visit U.S. Immigration and Customs offices as needed to submit and retrieve vessel-related documents.
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 that may include evenings, weekends, and holidays.
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 vessel-operation records and complete required regulatory and company filings.
Identify and respond to operational issues, delays, or emergencies, escalating them when necessary.
Prepare, process, and submit governmental and agency documents; secure approvals and maintain records.
Provide professional, courteous, and responsive service to shipmasters, crew members, and clients.
Represent the agency during port calls with professionalism, integrity, and reliability.
Follow company HSEQ policies and procedures and applicable maritime safety regulations.
Participate in mandatory safety drills, emergency-response training, and safety briefings.