Maritime Operations Leader: Vessel & Terminal Excellence

Darwin Recruitment; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Darwin Recruitment is seeking an Experienced Maritime Terminal Operations Leader in Los Angeles to plan, coordinate, and optimize vessel, yard, rail, and gate operations in a high-volume container terminal. You will oversee labor planning, safety compliance, and performance analytics to enhance cargo movement and vessel turnaround.

The role requires 5+ years in marine terminal or port operations with proficiency in Navis N4, XPS, and TO systems, plus strong leadership and analytical skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field.
• 5+ years in marine terminal or port operations, vessel planning, or logistics management.
• Proficiency with Navis N4, XPS, and terminal operating systems.

Responsibilities

• Plan and coordinate vessel operations, ensuring efficient loading, discharging, and terminal resource utilization.
• Analyze vessel and yard performance data to identify trends and implement operational improvements.
• Collaborate with shipping lines, port authorities, labor unions, and terminal stakeholders to support daily operations.
• Develop labor forecasts and schedule union labor requirements to meet operational demands while controlling costs.
• Manage vessel stowage planning and coordinate with customers to ensure cargo requirements are met.
• Oversee yard operations, container inventory management, and equipment utilization to maximize terminal productivity.
• Lead and supervise operational teams, ensuring compliance with company policies, safety standards, and collective bargaining agreements.
• Investigate and resolve operational issues, service disruptions, and customer concerns in a timely manner.
• Coordinate breakbulk, container, rail, and gate operations to maintain efficient cargo flow throughout the terminal.
• Monitor terminal performance metrics and prepare operational reports for management review.
• Work closely with planners and operations personnel to anticipate challenges and implement proactive solutions.
• Manage dispatch activities, equipment availability, and workforce deployment across multiple shifts.
• Support training, development, and performance management of employees and interns.
• Maintain compliance with safety regulations, terminal operating procedures, and industry best practices.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical

Communication

Problem-solving

Team management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Logistics/SC Management/Business Admin

Tools

Navis N4

XPS

Terminal operating systems

Job description

Darwin Recruitment is seeking an Experienced Maritime Terminal Operations Leader in Los Angeles to plan, coordinate, and optimize vessel, yard, rail, and gate operations in a high-volume container terminal. You will oversee labor planning, safety compliance, and performance analytics to enhance cargo movement and vessel turnaround.

The role requires 5+ years in marine terminal or port operations with proficiency in Navis N4, XPS, and TO systems, plus strong leadership and analytical skills.