Shipping Operations Assistant

Key Responsibilities:

Voyage and Vessel Management

• Schedule & Performance Monitoring: Continuously track vessel positions and port arrival/departure schedules (ETA/ETD). Proactively identify and resolve delays caused by weather, port congestion, or other operational disruptions.

• Port & Agency Coordination: Direct port agents to negotiate competitive fees, secure berthing slots, and coordinate all port call activities. Drive operational efficiency to minimize vessel turnaround time.

• Stakeholder Liaison: Serve as the primary operational point of contact between the vessel's Master, charterers, ship owners, port agents, and internal commercial and finance teams. Provide timely, accurate updates on all vessel movements and operational status.

Cargo Operations & DG Monitoring

• Stowage & Cargo Planning: Review and compliance with all port-specific restrictions and cargo-type requirements.
• Dangerous Goods (DG) Oversight: Take full operational responsibility for the safe carriage of Dangerous Goods cargoes. Monitor DG cargo units throughout the voyage, ensuring all handling, stowage, and segregation procedures comply with the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code and all applicable safety regulations. Liaise with the vessel's Master to confirm DG compatibility and emergency response protocols.
• Operational Risk Management: Identify and mitigate operational risks related to cargo handling, DG segregation, and port-specific restrictions. Resolve on-the-ground operational issues such as cargo contamination, discharge difficulties, or equipment failures.

Commercial & Financial Oversight (Operational Side)

• Cost Control: Monitor and verify all operational costs incurred during the voyage, including port charges, pilotage and tugboat services. Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising safety or efficiency.
• Budget Adherence: Ensure all voyage-related expenditures stay within approved operational budgets and escalate any significant cost overruns to management.

Compliance & Safety

• Regulatory Adherence: Ensure all vessel and cargo operations comply with company safety procedures, international maritime regulations (SOLAS, MARPOL, IMDG Code), and the legal requirements of all ports and flag states involved.
• Incident Response: Act as an operational point of contact during emergencies or incidents, coordinating with the vessel's Master, company safety teams, and relevant authorities to ensure a swift and effective response.