Shipping Agent

Stafforce Recruitment; Southend-on-Sea; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading ship agency in Southend-on-Sea is seeking a dedicated Port Agent to oversee vessel operations while ships are in port. The ideal candidate will have experience in port operations or maritime logistics. Key responsibilities include vessel coordination, stakeholder communication, and ensuring compliance with international regulations. The position offers a competitive salary and benefits package along with opportunities for career growth in a dynamic environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary & benefits package

Opportunities for career growth

Training and development

Qualifications

• Experience in port operations, ship agency, or maritime logistics is preferred but not essential.
• Dockside experience and a willingness to learn are encouraged.
• Knowledge of customs, immigration, and maritime regulations is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate vessel operations and ensure compliance with regulations.
• Communicate with stakeholders regarding cargo handling.
• Manage crew logistics and arrange necessary ship services.
• Prepare operational and financial reports for stakeholders.
• Ensure health and safety compliance with port regulations.

Skills

Port operations experience

Ship agency knowledge

Maritime logistics experience

Problem-solving skills

Excellent communication skills

Job description

About the Role

A leading ship agency is looking for a dedicated Port Agent to join their team and oversee vessel operations while ships are in port. This role is perfect for someone with port operations, ship agency, or maritime logistics experience or even trainees with dockside experience who are eager to learn and grow in the industry.

As a Port Agent, you'll be the key point of contact for shipowners and charterers, ensuring smooth operations, compliance, and coordination with various stakeholders. If you thrive in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment, this could be the perfect role for you!

Key Responsibilities

• Vessel Coordination: Book ships in and out of the port, arranging pilot and tug services.
• Customs & Immigration: Ensure all ship documentation complies with international regulations before inspections.
• Stakeholder Communication: Liaise with port agents, stevedores, ship planners, and terminal operators to ensure smooth cargo handling.
• Crew Logistics: Arrange crew changes, transportation, accommodation, and required immigration documentation.
• Ship Services: Organise provisions, fuel, and any necessary repairs or maintenance.
• Compliance & Reporting: Prepare and submit operational, financial, and disbursement reports for shipowners and principals.
• Health & Safety: Ensure compliance with port regulations and international standards.

What We're Looking For

• Experience in port operations, ship agency, or maritime logistics (preferred but not essential).
• Trainees welcome! If you have dockside experience and a willingness to learn, we encourage you to apply!
• Flexible approach to working hours as on‑call services are part of the job.
• Strong organisational and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast‑paced environment.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Knowledge of customs, immigration, and maritime regulations is a plus.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary & benefits package.
• Opportunity for career growth in a well‑established ship agency.
• A dynamic, fast‑paced work environment with exciting challenges every day.
• Training and development for candidates looking to build a career in the maritime industry.

Ready to set sail on your next career move? Apply today and take the first step toward an exciting role in port operations!

#r94

About Us

We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. In line with our Diversity and Inclusion policy, we welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. As a Disability Confident Employer, and part of the Nicholas Associates Group, we are committed to supporting candidates with disabilities, and we're happy to discuss flexible working options.

We are committed to protecting the privacy of all our candidates and clients. If you choose to apply, your information will be processed in accordance with the Nicholas Associates Group of companies.