Vessel Manager, US Ship

NORTON LILLY INTERNATIONAL INC•Mount Pleasant, SC

8d•Onsite

About The Position

The Vessel Manager is responsible for the overall planning, direction, and operational control of assigned vessel activities. Working with a high degree of autonomy, the manager exercises independent judgment and discretion on operational, financial, and regulatory matters within company objectives and management direction. As the senior operational authority for assigned vessels, the Vessel Manager makes final decisions on vessel services, vendor selection, and resource allocation as applicable, while ensuring efficient turnarounds, cost control, compliance, and alignment with client expectations. The position evaluates complex operating conditions, manages competing priorities, resolves escalated issues, and makes decisions that affect operational performance, financial exposure, regulatory compliance, and client relationships. The role includes directing port-call planning and execution; coordinating with terminals, service providers, government agencies, and internal stakeholders; overseeing vessel documentation and financial transactions; resolving operational disruptions and regulatory or scheduling challenges; and boarding vessels as needed to represent the company and support operational oversight. The Vessel Manager also provides guidance to support personnel, maintains readiness for on-call coverage, and provides operational support during evenings, weekends, and holidays as required. The position is performed onsite at the assigned office and aboard vessels. Office work is generally in a climate-controlled environment using standard office equipment. Shipboard duties may involve variable weather, confined spaces, moving machinery, hazardous materials, ladders, uneven or slippery surfaces, and elevated or enclosed areas. The employee must follow company HSEQ and safety requirements, use required PPE, and participate in safety training, drills, and briefings.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required.
ASBA Agency Certification required or must be obtained within six months of hire.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license with an acceptable motor vehicle record.
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 90 days of hire and maintain it throughout employment.
Must be able to safely board vessels using gangways, ladders, or launches.
Must be able to work in variable weather conditions and dynamic port environments.
Must be available for a flexible schedule based on business needs, including days, nights, weekends, some holidays, and travel to and from vessels in port.
Demonstrated customer service skills, responsiveness, professionalism, and solution-oriented support.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Word, and Excel, and 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 changing priorities and demands while delivering short-term operational results and longer-term initiatives.
Self-directed and accountable, with strong problem-solving skills and a results-driven mindset under pressure.
Ability to lift and carry equipment or supplies up to 50 pounds as needed.
Ability to comply with maritime safety regulations, including U.S. Coast Guard, OSHA, and company protocols, and participate in safety drills, emergency response training, and safety briefings.

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

Direct all aspects of port-call planning, execution, and stakeholder coordination for assigned vessels.
Make decisions on vessel services, vendor selection, and operational priorities as applicable, with attention to efficient, compliant, and cost-effective operations.
Evaluate operational, financial, and regulatory factors; determine appropriate actions and mitigate risks affecting vessel turnaround or cost.
Oversee and approve vessel documentation, financial transactions, and disbursement accounts for accuracy, compliance, and cost control.
Identify, assess, and resolve complex operational issues, including service disruptions, regulatory challenges, and scheduling conflicts.
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 supporting operational oversight.
Guide support personnel as applicable to promote consistent execution of operational standards.
Maintain readiness for on-call coverage and provide operational support, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.
Participate in company safety meetings and initiatives; comply with company safety policies, procedures, PPE requirements, and applicable regulations.
Complete mandatory training and follow standard operating procedures to support a safe, environmentally responsible, and compliant workplace.
Communicate professionally with principals, customers, port service providers, internal teams, and government agencies.
Collaborate with colleagues and contribute to a positive, respectful, and cooperative workplace culture.
Stay current on internal processes and prepare and deliver Port Disbursement forecasts to clients accurately and on time.
Participate in local maritime organizations, such as the Propeller Club, as appropriate to the port and commodity.
Ensure verbal and written communications are accurate, timely, and complete.
Prepare, review, and maintain vessel and customer documentation in accordance with regulatory requirements and company standards.
Comply with company HSEQ policies and procedures and perform other duties as assigned.