The Marine Boarding Agent provides comprehensive operational support to vessels calling at port, ensuring all ship-related services are coordinated in a timely, compliant, and efficient manner. This role involves direct interaction with ship crews, port authorities, vendors, and internal agency teams, including boarding vessels upon arrival, during port stay, and prior to departure.

The Boarding Agent performs time-sensitive deliveries, attends vessel operations, and ensures all port call requirements are met. The position requires strong attention to detail, excellent time management skills, and the ability to perform effectively in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, often outside standard business hours.

Specific Essential Job Duties

Vessel & Port Operations Support

Board assigned vessels upon arrival, throughout port stay, and prior to departure to provide full agency support.
Serve as the company’s official representative during vessel port calls.
Deliver and collect ship documentation, parcels, crew items, and required supplies to and from vessels.
Coordinate and facilitate port services including pilots, tugs, bunkers, provisions, transportation, and vessel repairs, when required.
Maintain clear and consistent communication with ship masters, vessel crews, and internal operations teams to convey port requirements and resolve operational issues.
Liaise with port authorities, terminal operators, stevedores, customs, immigration, and other regulatory agencies to ensure timely vessel clearance and service execution.
Visit U.S. Immigration and Customs offices as required to submit and retrieve vessel-related documentation.
Build and maintain effective working relationships with vessels, shipping lines, and third-party service providers.
Respond promptly to urgent operational needs, including after-hours requests.
Participate in on-call duty rotations, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as required.

Documentation & Compliance

Handle sensitive documentation including ship papers, customs forms, crew lists, and permits.
Ensure compliance with port regulations, customs requirements, and applicable safety standards.
Maintain accurate records of vessel operations and ensure all required filings are completed in accordance with regulatory and company requirements.

Identify and respond to operational issues, delays, or emergencies, escalating matters to appropriate contacts when necessary.
Prepare, process, and submit required governmental and agency documents, securing necessary approvals and maintaining proper records.

Customer Service & Representation

Provide professional, courteous, and responsive service to shipmasters, crew members, and clients.
Represent the agency during port calls with a high level of professionalism, integrity, and reliability.

Safety

Ensure compliance with safety regulations and company policies during vessel boarding and port operations.
Adhere to port security requirements, PPE standards, and company safety procedures.

Misc.

Abide by company HSEQ policies and procedures.

This job description is not exhaustive; additional duties may be assigned as needed. This role may evolve in response to changes in industry practices and technological advancements.

Qualifications & Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required.

College coursework in business, management, maritime studies, or a related field preferred.
ASBA Agency Certification required or must be obtained within six (6) months of hire.
Prior experience in marine agency services, port operations, or maritime operations preferred but not required.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license with an acceptable motor vehicle record (MVR).

Must have reliable transportation and maintain automobile insurance in accordance with state requirements.
Must possess or be able to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) within ninety (90) days of hire.
Ability to safely board vessels using gangways, ladders, or launches.
Ability to work in variable weather conditions and dynamic port environments.

Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Word, and Excel.
Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently and make sound decisions under pressure.
Demonstrated customer service skills with a focus on responsiveness, professionalism, and solution-oriented support.
Must be available to work a flexible schedule based on business needs, including days, nights, weekends, and some holidays with travel to and from the marine vessel while in Port.

Working Conditions

This position involves a combination of office-based work and shipboard duties, which may include time aboard vessels at dock.
While in the office, work is typically performed in a climate-controlled environment with standard office equipment.
While aboard vessels, employees may be exposed to varying weather conditions, confined spaces, moving machinery, and potentially hazardous materials.
May require climbing ladders, walking on uneven or slippery surfaces, and working in elevated or enclosed areas.
Must be able to lift and carry equipment or supplies up to 50 pounds as needed.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including but not limited to hard hats, safety footwear, gloves, and life vests, must be worn as required by company policy and maritime regulations. The required PPE will be organized by your supervisor.
Compliance with all maritime safety regulations—including U.S. Coast Guard, OSHA, and company protocols—is required. Participation in safety drills, emergency response training, and regular safety briefings are mandatory.

EEO Statement

Norton Lilly International is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

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