Operations Executive/Senior Executive

COSCO SHIPPING LINES (SINGAPORE) PTE. LTD.; Singapore; On-site; SGD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

COSCO SHIPPING LINES (SINGAPORE) PTE. LTD. seeks an experienced Vessel Stowage & Cargo Coordinator to optimise vessel space, coordinate DG, OOG, UC approvals, and ensure compliance with IMDG and safety standards.

The role collaborates with vessel planners, terminals, marketing, and HQ to ensure timely loading, accurate reporting, and efficient cargo fulfilment. Relevant candidates have 2-6 years in container shipping, strong IT skills, and coordination.

Qualifications

• Diploma or degree in Maritime Studies, Shipping, Logistics or related discipline.
• 2-3 years for Executive or 4-6 years for Senior Executive in container shipping or cargo coordination.
• Knowledge of IMDG code and DG cargo procedures; familiarity with OOG/UC cargo handling.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and review vessel stowage plans to optimise space.
• Liaise with planners, operators and terminal teams on loading and discharge.
• Monitor cargo fulfilment against allocations and plans.
• Review and process DG cargo applications according to IMDG.
• Coordinate OOG and UC cargo approvals and ensure safety compliance.

Skills

Stowage planning

DG/IMDG knowledge

OOG/UC handling

Coordination

Analytical skills

Education

Diploma or Degree in Maritime Studies, Shipping, Logistics, or related discipline

Tools

Excel

Shipping systems

Job description

Job Purpose

To support the efficient and safe execution of vessel operations through effective stowage coordination, cargo fulfilment management and special cargo approval processes, including Dangerous Goods (DG), Out-of-Gauge (OOG) and Uncontainerised Cargo (UC). The incumbent will work closely with vessel planners, terminals, internal departments, regional offices and headquarters to ensure optimal vessel space utilisation, operational efficiency and compliance with maritime safety requirements.

Key Responsibilities

A. Vessel Stowage Planning & Coordination

• Coordinate and review vessel stowage plans to optimise vessel space utilisation and cargo loading efficiency.
• Liaise with central planners, vessel operators and terminal planning teams on loading and discharge arrangements.
• Monitor vessel loading capacity, cargo weight distribution and operational restrictions.
• Identify and resolve stowage discrepancies, loading conflicts and operational constraints.
• Coordinate last-minute cargo changes and loading adjustments to minimise disruptions.

B. Cargo Fulfilment & Space Management

• Monitor cargo fulfilment against vessel allocations, bookings and loading plans.
• Coordinate with Marketing & Sales, Customer Service and relevant departments to maximise cargo loading.
• Monitor cargo shortfalls, rollovers, overbooking and loading discrepancies.
• Follow up on cargo readiness and loading status to ensure timely shipment fulfilment.
• Prepare operational reports on vessel utilisation and cargo fulfilment performance.

C. Dangerous Goods (DG) Cargo Approval

• Review and process DG cargo applications in accordance with the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code and company procedures.
• Verify DG documentation, cargo classification, UN numbers and applicable handling requirements.
• Coordinate with relevant stakeholders to obtain DG cargo acceptance and loading approvals.
• Ensure compliance with vessel restrictions, segregation requirements and port regulations.
• Escalate non-compliant or high-risk cargo applications to the relevant approving authority.

D. Out-of-Gauge (OOG) & Uncontainerised Cargo (UC) Approval

• Review and coordinate OOG and UC cargo applications, including cargo dimensions, weight and operational feasibility.
• Liaise with vessel planners, technical teams and terminals on special cargo stowage arrangements.
• Coordinate technical assessments, cargo securing requirements and necessary approvals.
• Ensure compliance with vessel limitations, safety standards and company procedures.
• Monitor approval status and communicate operational requirements to relevant stakeholders.

E. Operational Coordination & Reporting

• Liaise with internal departments, regional offices, headquarters and external stakeholders to ensure smooth vessel operations.
• Monitor operational issues affecting vessel schedules and cargo loading performance.
• Resolve operational discrepancies and
• Maintain accurate operational records and prepare periodic management reports.
• Support process improvements to enhance operational productivity, efficiency and service quality.
• Undertake other operational duties assigned by management.

Job Requirements

Education

• Diploma or Degree in Maritime Studies, Shipping, Logistics, Supply Chain Management or a related discipline.

Experience

• Executive: Minimum 2-3 years of relevant experience in container shipping, vessel operations or cargo coordination.
• Senior Executive: Minimum 4-6 years of relevant experience, preferably in vessel stowage, cargo fulfilment and special cargo operations.
• Experience with container shipping lines, vessel operators or terminal operators is advantageous.

Technical Knowledge

• Understanding of vessel stowage planning and container shipping operations.
• Knowledge of IMDG Code requirements and DG cargo acceptance procedures.
• Familiarity with OOG/UC cargo handling, technical assessments and approval processes.
• Knowledge of vessel capacity, cargo weight restrictions and operational safety.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, and relevant shipping systems.

Key Competencies

• Strong analytical, planning and problem-solving skills.
• Good coordination and stakeholder management abilities.
• High attention to detail and commitment to operational safety.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage time-sensitive operational requirements.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Proactive, adaptable and able to work independently.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Vessel cargo fulfilment and loading performance.
• Accuracy and timeliness of DG/OOG/UC application processing.
• Vessel space utilisation and minimisation of avoidable cargo rollovers.
• Compliance with maritime safety regulations and company procedures.
• Timely resolution of operational issues.
• Accuracy and punctuality of operation