Logistics Supervisor - Durban Port Operations

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Overtime pay

Medical and dental insurance

Provident fund contribution

Annual performance bonus

Career advancement

Dynamic work environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Logistics Supervisor to oversee operations at the busy Durban Port. The role involves supervising a team, coordinating with shipping lines, customs agents, and ground transportation, and ensuring safety and efficiency in all port activities.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in port operations or maritime logistics, proven leadership, and the ability to resolve real-time challenges in a dynamic port environment.

Qualifications

• 4+ years in port operations, maritime logistics, or freight handling.
• Experience supervising operational teams.
• Strong knowledge of shipping procedures, customs regulations, and trade documentation.
• Familiarity with cargo handling equipment and safety standards in port environments.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours including nights, weekends and holidays.
• Proficiency in logistics software and MS Office Suite.
• Valid driver’s license for on-site movement.
• Ability to pass a stringent security background check for port access.

Responsibilities

• Supervise daily logistics activities within the Durban port, ensuring timely loading and unloading of vessels and trucks.
• Coordinate with shipping agents, terminal operators, and customs officials to facilitate smooth cargo movement.
• Manage and direct a team of port logistics workers, assigning tasks and ensuring productivity.
• Monitor cargo inventory and ensure accuracy in record-keeping and documentation.
• Implement and enforce strict safety protocols and procedures within the port environment.
• Troubleshoot and resolve operational issues, such as delays, damages, or discrepancies, in a timely manner.
• Maintain close communication with ground transportation providers to ensure seamless onward delivery or collection of goods.
• Ensure compliance with all maritime regulations, customs laws, and company policies.
• Conduct regular inspections of equipment and facilities to ensure operational readiness and safety.
• Contribute to process improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Team supervision

Safety awareness

Logistics software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in maritime logistics and cargo handling, is seeking a diligent and experienced Logistics Supervisor to oversee operations at the busy **Durban Port**. This crucial on‑site role involves managing the efficient flow of goods, coordinating with shipping lines, customs agents, and ground transportation partners, and ensuring all portside logistics activities adhere to strict safety and operational standards. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in port operations, freight forwarding, or supply chain management, coupled with excellent leadership capabilities. You will be responsible for supervising a team of logistics personnel, optimizing workflow, and resolving operational challenges in real‑time. This position is fundamental to maintaining the company's reputation for reliability and efficiency in one of Africa's busiest ports. We are looking for an individual with a keen eye for detail and a proactive approach to problem‑solving within the dynamic **Durban** environment. Your expertise will directly impact the smooth functioning of our client's critical port operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise daily logistics activities within the Durban port, ensuring timely loading and unloading of vessels and trucks.
• Coordinate with shipping agents, terminal operators, and customs officials to facilitate smooth cargo movement.
• Manage and direct a team of port logistics workers, assigning tasks and ensuring productivity.
• Monitor cargo inventory and ensure accuracy in record-keeping and documentation.
• Implement and enforce strict safety protocols and procedures within the port environment.
• Troubleshoot and resolve operational issues, such as delays, damages, or discrepancies, in a timely manner.
• Maintain close communication with ground transportation providers to ensure seamless onward delivery or collection of goods.
• Ensure compliance with all maritime regulations, customs laws, and company policies.
• Conduct regular inspections of equipment and facilities to ensure operational readiness and safety.
• Contribute to process improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.

Requirements

• Minimum of 4 years of experience in port operations, maritime logistics, or freight handling.
• Proven experience in supervising operational teams.
• Strong understanding of shipping procedures, customs regulations, and international trade documentation.
• Familiarity with cargo handling equipment and safety standards in a port environment.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as required by port operations.
• Proficiency in relevant logistics software and MS Office Suite.
• A valid driver’s license is required for on-site movement.
• Ability to pass a stringent security background check for port access.
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to safety.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package reflective of experience.
• Overtime pay for hours worked beyond standard shifts.
• Medical and dental insurance plans.
• Provident fund contribution.
• Annual performance bonuses.
• Opportunities for career advancement within the logistics sector.
• Dynamic and challenging work environment at the Durban Port.