Yard Planner - Bayport

Position Summary

The Yard Planner is responsible for planning, coordinating, and optimizing yard operations to ensure efficient vessel loading/unloading, equipment utilization, and cargo flow through Port Houston’s container or breakbulk terminals. Build and maintain all allocations for Port Houston container terminals to effectively move cargo in and out of the terminals to meet industry needs. Forecast future cargo projections to utilize yard space based on vessel stowage demands. Manage and troubleshoot all yard stowage issues. Will participate in container yard and vessel operations rotation.

Key Responsibilities/Duties

• Lead yard planning efforts on behalf of operations.
• Communicate with crane operators to expedite the loading of containers in and out of the terminals.
• Work interactively with stevedores to improve yard stowage strategies.
• Coordinate truck movements with staff to maintain efficient traffic flow within the container terminals.
• Segregate hazardous cargo according to US Coast Guard standards and specifications.
• Ensure that the correct empty equipment types are being loaded out.
• Monitor all exports, imports, and empty allocations for Port Houston container terminals.
• Resolve any pad inventory issues or concerns.
• Assist with all inter‑terminal moves in the pads.
• Create new filters for vessel services when needed to meet criteria of specific container specifications.
• Participate in a rotation between the yard planning group and vessel operations teams, including supervising and coordinating terminal vessel operations.
• Set up vessel operations plans.
• Establish and maintain adequate relationships with, and provide direct liaison to, the stevedoring industry.
• Track stevedore utilization of Port Houston crane and equipment; prepare bills.
• Inform the chain of leadership team of vessel activities.
• Communicate with peers on all empty, rail, and barge containers entering or leaving the terminal.
• Act in accordance with Port Houston core values (respect, excellence, accountability, diligence, and you).
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Education/Experience

Bachelor’s Degree in Maritime Administration, Business Administration, or a related major from a public or accredited private institution is required; alternatively, 5+ years of directly related experience in a similar role may be considered in lieu of a degree. One or more years of related experience is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Behaviors

• Knowledge of XPS and N4 operating systems.
• Knowledge of different vessel specifications.
• Knowledge of hazardous cargo specifications.
• Knowledge of container yard layout.
• Verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to type and run a 10‑key keypad.
• Ability to multitask and make quick decisions.
• Ability to troubleshoot and solve problems.
• Ability to work with limited supervision.
• Ability to adapt and handle stress.
• Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) must be obtained within 30 days of appointment and maintained for the duration of employment.

Key Competencies

• Analytical Problem Solving
• Attention to Detail
• Effective Communication
• Building Strategic Working Relationships
• Quality Orientation
• Stress Tolerance

Work Environment

This position is located at the Bayport Administration site. The work environment is generally moderate in noise level, though open‑office areas may occasionally be louder. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.