Operations Manager - US Ship

NORTON LILLY INTERNATIONAL INC•Mount Pleasant, SC

8d•Onsite

About The Position

Under the supervision of their manager, the Operations Manager oversees day-to-day operations within their department or team, ensuring objectives are met efficiently and in alignment with company goals. The role manages and develops a team, monitors performance, ensures compliance with organizational policies and procedures, and works with the manager to implement strategies, allocate resources, and drive continuous improvement. The Operations Manager serves as a key communication link between front-line employees and upper management, supports budgeting and performance reviews, and helps maintain a positive, productive work environment. The role oversees cost control, billing accuracy, safety and regulatory compliance, employee management and training, vessel turnaround, customer and community relationships, sales support, and the quality and filing of operational documents. It involves office work and shipboard duties, with regional and international travel as required. The position is fully onsite at the assigned office and may require a flexible schedule, including days, nights, weekends, and some holidays.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required.
A combination of relevant education, such as a degree or certifications, and hands-on experience is preferred.
A bachelor's degree in business, Maritime, or a related field is desirable.
At least three years of relevant Maritime Industry experience is desirable.
Proficiency with computer software and applications, and ability to adapt quickly to new technologies and tools.
Ability to manage multiple tasks and work effectively in a fast-paced environment with tight deadlines and shifting priorities.
Strong communication and leadership abilities, including team management skills.
Ability to collaborate with in-office and remote teams at all levels and across departments.
Strong organization, attention to detail, time management, planning, and prioritization skills.
Team-oriented approach, with the ability to lead, listen, and influence appropriately.
Strong conflict-resolution and negotiation skills.
Ability to deliver results under pressure and work independently while remaining team-focused and results-oriented.
Ability to travel regionally and internationally as required.
Valid driver’s license and accident-free motor vehicle record.
Ability to provide and maintain automobile insurance according to state laws.
Ability to obtain a Transportation Workers Identification Card (TWIC) within 90 days of hire.
Reliable and consistent transportation approved by terminals/ports.
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including days, nights, weekends, and some holidays.
Ability to perform shipboard duties, including climbing ladders, walking on uneven or slippery surfaces, and working in elevated or enclosed areas.
Ability to lift and carry equipment or supplies weighing up to 25 pounds as needed.
Wear required personal protective equipment, including hard hats, safety footwear, gloves, and life vests, as required by company policy and maritime regulations.
Comply with U.S. Coast Guard, OSHA, and company safety protocols and participate in mandatory safety drills, emergency-response training, and regular safety briefings.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in business, Maritime, or a related field.
Relevant certifications.
At least three years of relevant Maritime Industry experience.

Responsibilities

Ensure timely processing and ongoing accuracy of billing activities.
Monitor costs related to overtime, mileage reimbursements, traffic fines, and incidental expenses; analyze trends and variances and implement cost-control measures.
Establish and enforce policies to reduce avoidable fines, penalties, and excessive overtime.
Monitor and track safety KPIs and training compliance; organize and lead safety meetings; prepare required safety reports.
Ensure compliance with company safety policies and applicable regulations, support and enforce the NLI safety program, and ensure safety gear is available to team members.
Develop and implement standard operating procedures and guidelines for a safe and environmentally responsible work environment.
Ensure personnel complete mandatory regulatory training and document training within NLI policy timelines.
Maintain a professional office environment prepared for visits from colleagues, customers, government officials, stevedores, port managers, and other visitors.
Participate in recruitment, including interviewing and approving new hires; manage employee turnover and retention.
Manage employee hiring, training, terminations, and disciplinary actions, with management and HR assistance as needed.
Maintain regular communication with principals, customers, the Port Authority, terminals, and relevant government agencies.
Collaborate with team members and promote a positive, cooperative work environment; resolve issues and overcome obstacles to achieve goals.
Board vessels for operational, training, and relationship purposes.
Coordinate assigned staff to ensure timely and accurate vessel turnaround according to customer expectations and contractual agreements.
Prepare and distribute weekend and/or night duty schedules to staff in a timely manner.
Ensure staff are trained to accurately calculate and present Port Disbursement forecasts to clients within established timeframes.
Ensure staff receive appropriate maritime operations, language, and industry-specific training.
Build and maintain local community relationships and participate in local maritime organizations, such as the Propeller Club, as appropriate to the port and commodity.
Identify and recommend local business opportunities to the supervisor; participate in sales calls and customer-account events.
Ensure verbal and written communications are accurate, timely, and complete.
Provide training and guidance to the local port office to maintain company quality standards.
Oversee accurate and proper filing of vessel and customer documents in accordance with regulatory agency requirements and corporate policies.
Abide by company HSEQ policies and procedures; perform additional duties as assigned.
Travel regionally and internationally as required.
Work a flexible schedule based on business needs, including days, nights, weekends, and some holidays.
Use required PPE and comply with maritime safety regulations, safety drills, emergency-response training, and safety briefings.