Boarding Agent, Maritime Ship Agent

Business Need / Purpose of Role

The Operations Representative (Boarding Agent) reports to the Operations Manager and is responsible for providing logistics services to our Principals to ensure the safe and smooth turnaround of all appointed vessels within the jurisdiction of the port office. This includes managing vessel requirements, procuring relevant vendor services, and undertaking vessel boarding as required. The agent plays a critical role in delivering safe, efficient, and customer‑focused operations in compliance with maritime regulations and company standards, exercising discretion and independent judgment on operational matters of significance. The position involves office and non‑manual work supporting Inchcape’s 24‑hour‑a‑day, 7‑days‑a‑week on‑call service commitments to its Principals.

Responsibilities

• Provide logistics service to Principals to ensure safe and smooth vessel turnaround.
• Manage vessel requirements and coordinate procurement of vendor services.
• Conduct vessel boarding via gangway and/or pilot ladder as needed.
• Maintain compliance with maritime regulations and company standards.
• Exercise independent judgment on significant operational matters.
• Support 24/7 on‑call service commitments for Principals.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Foundational knowledge of port operations and port agency services.
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision and multitask.
• Strong initiative and ability to exercise independent judgment within established procedures.
• Excellent organizational and time‑management skills; detail‑oriented and results‑driven.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Exceptional customer service and communication skills, including strong verbal and listening abilities.
• Physical ability to board vessels via gangway or pilot ladder, climb ladders, stairs, and ramps, and lift/carry up to 50 lb.
• Capability to work in varied environmental conditions (cold, heat, wind, rain, snow).
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, and Outlook.

Education, Qualifications, and Certifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent (required).
• Associate degree in Maritime Transportation or related field (preferred).
• Prior experience in marine agency field desired but not required.
• Eligibility to work in the United States.
• Valid, non‑expired state driver’s license, reliable personal transportation, and vehicle insurance coverage.
• Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) – must be obtained within 30 days of appointment and maintained thereafter.
• Transitioning military personnel and veterans are encouraged to apply.

Benefits

• Generous time off: three weeks’ vacation immediately upon hire, 10 days personal/sick leave, and 12 paid holidays.
• Paid parental leave.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Performance and recognition rewards, including merit increases.
• Career growth and promotion opportunities; internal hiring focus.
• Health and financial benefits, tuition assistance, and employee resource groups.
• Flexible work arrangements to support work‑life balance.
• Collaborative workspaces; some offices are pet‑friendly.
• Various sponsored events and additional perks.