Vessel Superintendent

About the position

Reporting to the Operations Manager, the Vessel Superintendent (VS) oversees the loading and unloading of customer vessels from start to finish (pre-operations, operations, and post-operations) while ensuring the delivery of the highest levels of safety, quality, and productivity from the entire workforce. This role leads the planning efforts and is the first line of contact for customer support.

Responsibilities

• Pre-Operations: Serves as a front-line contact for customers and customer representatives (Port Captains, Marine Agent, Surveyors, etc.). Contributes to pre-operations meetings with the General Manager, Port Captain, Checkers, and other representatives to discuss labor and equipment needs and identify any possible safety risks associated with cargo. Coordinates with Workforce Planners and location management for labor demand determination. Review the stowage and yard layout plans with all parties to confirm how the vessel will be loaded/discharged. Oversees the placement of shore cranes, gear, and labor. Changes rigging, as needed, for respective cargo needs.
• Operations: Directly supervises all production on assigned vessels and terminals. Provides oversight and supervision of the labor throughout the operation, including training and employee relations. Ensures that all equipment is operating properly and troubleshoots when necessary. May complete disciplinary write-ups. May oversee loading trucks and railcars. Understands the Purchasing Order system and utilizes it when necessary. Monitors the Walking Foreman, Ship Clerks, and Ship Checkers to ensure cargo is placed per the stowage plan. Provides updates on production. Advises all parties of any changes during operations and provides the necessary information to ensure a smooth shift transition. Ensures compliance with the company's Health, Safety, and Environment programs and procedures: Provide safety training, attend safety meetings, and report incidents/accidents.
• Post-Operations: Documents additional materials ordered, furnished, and used to complete load out and include in final vessel paperwork (i.e., lashing, lumber, etc.). Ensures that all vessel paperwork is accurate and complete to facilitate proper client billing.

Requirements

• High School Graduate; college or university degree preferred, especially in a maritime-related field.
• Relevant working experience may be substituted.
• 2-3 years of stevedoring and marine terminal operations experience; one year of supervisory experience highly preferred.
• Knowledge of methods and equipment utilized in stevedoring and/or warehouse operations.
• Ability to operate equipment may be required in some locations.
• Health and Safety oversight experience; knowledge of OSHA regulations.
• Proven experience leading through change, fostering a cooperative work environment, and motivating others to drive continuous improvement.
• Organizational, project management, and time management skills with the ability to prioritize, be detail-oriented, and be accurate.
• Excellent computer skills in a Microsoft Windows environment.
• Must include knowledge of Excel skills.
• Bi-lingual in English/Spanish preferred.
• Strong oral and written communication skills to communicate with internal and external customers at all organizational levels.