Yard Planner: Port Operations & Cargo Optimization

0072 Port of Houston Authority; United States; On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Port Houston is seeking a Yard Planner to optimize yard operations, vessel loading/unloading, and cargo flow at container or breakbulk terminals. You will build allocations, forecast cargo, troubleshoot yard stowage, and participate in inter-terminal moves.

The role requires a maritime or related degree or 5+ years of experience, with strong knowledge of XPS/N4, vessel specs, and hazardous cargo handling. Port Houston emphasizes safety, efficiency, and teamwork.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or 5+ years of directly related experience in a similar role.
• 1+ year of related experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead yard planning efforts for operations and coordinate terminal activities.
• Communicate with crane operators to expedite container loading/unloading.
• Coordinate with stevedores to improve yard stowage strategies.
• Monitor exports, imports, and empty allocations for container terminals.
• Segregate hazardous cargo per US Coast Guard standards.
• Participate in rotation between yard planning and vessel operations teams.
• Track stevedore utilization and inform leadership of vessel activities.

Skills

XPS/N4 knowledge

Vessel specifications

Hazardous cargo knowledge

Yard layout knowledge

Communication skills

Multitasking

Problem solving

Stress management

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Maritime Administration/Business Administration or related

5+ years of related experience in a similar role (in lieu of degree)

Job description

Port Houston is seeking a Yard Planner to optimize yard operations, vessel loading/unloading, and cargo flow at container or breakbulk terminals. You will build allocations, forecast cargo, troubleshoot yard stowage, and participate in inter-terminal moves.

The role requires a maritime or related degree or 5+ years of experience, with strong knowledge of XPS/N4, vessel specs, and hazardous cargo handling. Port Houston emphasizes safety, efficiency, and teamwork.