Harbor Operations Coordinator

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 520,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Harbor Operations Coordinator for Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This on-site role requires organizing ship arrivals/departures, cargo handling coordination, and ensuring efficient turnaround times within a busy port environment.

You will liaise with shipping lines, terminal operators, customs and stevedoring teams, ensuring safety, regulatory compliance and smooth operations under pressure.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years in port operations or maritime logistics.
• Familiarity with port procedures, shipping docs and international maritime regs.
• Excellent communication, negotiation and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with port management software and office tools.
• Capable of working in a high-pressure, 24/7 environment.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate vessel schedules, berthing, and pilotage requirements.
• Manage cargo operations with stevedoring teams for loading/unloading.
• Serve as liaison between shipping lines, terminals and port stakeholders.
• Monitor vessel movements and ensure safety/regulatory compliance.
• Handle vessel arrivals/departures and cargo manifests documentation.
• Respond to disruptions with contingency plans and reports.
• Track KPIs for vessel turnaround and operational efficiency.
• Optimize use of port resources (quayside, equipment, personnel).
• Maintain logs and produce management reports.

Skills

Communication

Problem-solving

Port operations

Organizational skills

Team coordination

Education

Maritime Studies / Logistics / SCM degree

Tools

Port management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major port operator and logistics hub, is seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Harbor Operations Coordinator. This critical role involves the seamless management of ship arrivals and departures, cargo handling coordination, and ensuring efficient turnaround times within the busy port of **Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA**. You will act as a central point of communication for shipping lines, terminal operators, customs officials, and stevedoring companies, ensuring all operations run smoothly and safely. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of maritime operations, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to work effectively under pressure in a dynamic, often unpredictable environment. This is an on-site position requiring a consistent presence at our operational headquarters.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate vessel schedules, berthing assignments, and pilotage requirements.
• Oversee and facilitate cargo operations, including loading and unloading, in collaboration with stevedoring teams.
• Act as the primary liaison between shipping agents, terminal operators, and other port stakeholders.
• Monitor vessel movements and port activities to ensure compliance with safety regulations and operational procedures.
• Manage documentation related to vessel arrivals, departures, and cargo manifests.
• Respond promptly to operational disruptions or emergencies, implementing contingency plans.
• Track and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to vessel turnaround time and operational efficiency.
• Ensure efficient utilization of port resources, including quayside, equipment, and personnel.
• Maintain accurate operational logs and prepare detailed reports for management.

Requirements

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in port operations, maritime logistics, or a related field.
• Strong knowledge of port procedures, shipping documentation, and international maritime regulations.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in using port management software and standard office productivity suites.
• Ability to work effectively in a high-pressure, 24/7 operational environment.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and prioritize effectively.
• A relevant qualification in Maritime Studies, Logistics, or Supply Chain Management is preferred.
• Familiarity with the specific operational environment of **Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA**.
• Must be physically capable of performing duties within a port environment.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for specialized training and professional development in maritime operations.
• Work within a vital sector of the South African economy.
• Exposure to international shipping and logistics networks.