Vessel Manager, US Ship

Norton Lilly International•Jacksonville, FL

1h•Onsite

About The Position

The Vessel Manager operates with a high degree of autonomy and is responsible for the overall planning, direction, and operational control of assigned vessel activities. The role requires independent judgment and discretion on operational, financial, and regulatory matters, within established company objectives and management direction. As the senior operational authority for assigned vessels, the Vessel Manager makes final decisions regarding vessel services, vendor selection, and resource allocation as applicable. The role evaluates complex operational conditions, manages competing priorities, resolves escalated issues, and aligns operations with client expectations and company objectives. Decisions directly affect operational performance, financial exposure, regulatory compliance, and client relationships. The position combines office-based work with duties aboard vessels at dock or moored or anchored locations. Vessel boarding, on-call coverage, and a flexible schedule—including days, nights, weekends, and some holidays—are required based on business needs.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
ASBA Agency Certification, or ability to obtain it within six months of hire.
Demonstrated customer service skills, including responsiveness, professionalism, and solution-oriented support.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Word, and Excel, and business software, with ability to learn new technologies and systems.
Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to collaborate professionally across organizational levels, departments, and in-office and remote teams.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Ability to plan, prioritize, and manage multiple concurrent tasks in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
Ability to adjust to shifting priorities and changing demands and deliver short-term operational results and longer-term initiatives.
Self-direction, accountability, problem-solving skills, and a results-driven mindset under pressure.
Valid driver’s license with an acceptable motor vehicle record.
Reliable transportation and automobile insurance in accordance with state requirements.
Must possess or be able to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) within 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.
Availability for a flexible schedule based on business needs, including days, nights, weekends, and some holidays, with travel to and from vessels in port.
Ability to lift and carry equipment or supplies up to 50 pounds as needed.
Ability to work around confined spaces, moving machinery, and potentially hazardous materials, and to climb ladders, walk on uneven or slippery surfaces, and work in elevated or enclosed areas.
Ability to wear required PPE and participate in mandatory safety drills, emergency response training, and safety briefings.
Compliance with applicable maritime safety regulations, including U.S. Coast Guard, OSHA, and company protocols.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Maritime Studies, or a related field.
At least two years of relevant experience in the maritime or port services industry.
A combination of relevant education, such as a degree or certifications, and hands-on experience.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary operational decision-maker for assigned vessels and direct port call planning, execution, and stakeholder coordination.
Determine vessel services, vendor selection, and operational priorities as applicable, ensuring efficient, compliant, and cost-effective operations.
Evaluate operational, financial, and regulatory factors; use independent judgment to select courses of action and mitigate risks affecting vessel turnaround or costs.
Oversee and approve vessel documentation, financial transactions, and disbursement accounts to ensure accuracy, compliance, and cost control.
Identify, assess, and resolve complex operational issues, including service disruptions, regulatory challenges, and scheduling conflicts, with minimal supervision.
Direct and coordinate internal and external stakeholders, including terminal operators, service providers, and government agencies.
Board vessels as needed to represent the company during port calls and perform onboard and documentation-related activities in support of operational oversight and decisions.
Guide support personnel, as applicable, to ensure consistent execution of operational standards.
Maintain readiness for on-call coverage and provide continuous operational support, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.
Participate in company safety meetings and initiatives, follow safety policies and procedures, comply with applicable regulations, use required PPE, complete mandatory training, and follow standard operating procedures.
Communicate professionally with principals, customers, port service providers, internal teams, and government agencies; collaborate with colleagues and contribute to a respectful workplace.
Stay current on internal processes and expectations and prepare and deliver Port Disbursement forecasts to clients accurately and on time.
Participate in local maritime organizations, such as the Propeller Club, as applicable to the port and commodity.
Ensure verbal and written communications are accurate, timely, and complete, and ensure vessel and customer documentation meets regulatory requirements and company standards.
Comply with company HSEQ policies and procedures and perform other duties as assigned.