Vessel Operations Coordinator — Flexible Hours

SDW Recruitment Limited; Southampton; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Training provided

Job summary

SDW Recruitment Limited is seeking an experienced Vessel Agent in Southampton to join a busy Vessel Services team. You’ll manage vessel calls from arrival planning to departure, coordinating berthing, pilots, towage, crew changes and customs clearance, while liaising with Masters, port authorities and operational teams.

The role demands flexibility, including evenings and weekends, a hands-on approach, and the ability to stay calm under tight deadlines in a fast-moving port environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in Vessel Agency or ship husbandry.
• Knowledge of customs clearance and import/export procedures.
• Understanding of UK immigration requirements for seafarers.
• Knowledge of HMRC procedures relating to ships’ spares.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Fluent English.

Responsibilities

• Coordinating vessel arrivals, berthing, pilots, towage and mooring services.
• Liaising with Vessel Masters, port authorities and operational teams.
• Handling arrival and departure information for crew and passengers.
• Arranging crew changes and supporting visitors to vessels.
• Organising stores, fuel and vessel requirements.
• Completing customs clearances for import/export cargo.
• Monitoring vessel movements and reporting delays.
• Preparing documentation for vessel calls and checking invoices.
• Acting as local point of contact for problems or emergencies.

Skills

Vessel Agency

Ship husbandry

Organisational skills

Time management

Communication skills

Fluent English

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

SDW Recruitment Limited is seeking an experienced Vessel Agent in Southampton to join a busy Vessel Services team. You’ll manage vessel calls from arrival planning to departure, coordinating berthing, pilots, towage, crew changes and customs clearance, while liaising with Masters, port authorities and operational teams.

The role demands flexibility, including evenings and weekends, a hands-on approach, and the ability to stay calm under tight deadlines in a fast-moving port environment.