Shipping Agent

Stafforce Recruitment; Stanford-le-Hope; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading ship agency is seeking a dedicated Port Agent in Stanford-le-Hope to manage vessel operations while in port. The ideal candidate should have experience in port operations or maritime logistics, but trainees with dockside experience are encouraged to apply. Responsibilities include booking vessels, ensuring compliance with regulations, and coordinating crew logistics. This is an excellent opportunity for growth in a dynamic work environment with competitive compensation and training opportunities.

Benefits

Competitive salary & benefits package

Career growth opportunities

Dynamic work environment

Training and development programs

Qualifications

• Experience in port operations, ship agency, or maritime logistics preferred.
• Willingness to learn from trainees with dockside experience.
• Flexible approach to working hours, including on-call services.
• Knowledge of customs, immigration, and maritime regulations is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate vessel bookings, pilot, and tug services.
• Ensure compliance of ship documentation with international regulations.
• Liaise with various stakeholders for smooth cargo handling.
• Arrange crew changes and transportation logistics.
• Organize provisions, fuel, and maintenance for ships.
• Prepare operational, financial, and disbursement reports.
• Ensure health and safety compliance at the port.

Skills

Organisational skills

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Stakeholder management

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.

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: Organize 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.

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.