Cruise Boarding Agent na Norton Lilly International

Description of Position:

Under the direction of your supervisor, the Cruise Boarding Agent is responsible for coordinating all port agency, husbandry, and administrative activities related to individual vessel calls. This position ensures smooth vessel arrivals and departures by managing documentation, arranging services, and maintaining effective communication with internal teams, customers, government authorities, and port stakeholders. The agent plays a critical role in delivering safe, efficient, and customer-focused operations in compliance with maritime regulations and company standards.

Summary of Objectives:

• Board vessels daily at marine terminals, mid-stream locations, or anchorage as dictated by business needs.
• Procure and coordinate services for assigned marine vessels, such as pilotage, tugboats, linesmen, provisions, repairs, and crew changes under the direction of the Port or Operations Manager.
• Coordinate berthing assignments and monitor and report vessel status, berthing/sailing prospects, and cargo operations progress in real time.
• Act as the primary liaison between the vessel, terminal, port authorities, government agencies, and customers.
• Prepare and submit all required port, customs, and agency documentation for vessel arrivals and departures.
• Prepare and submit all pre-arrival, cargo, and customs documentation as per regulatory timelines.
• Make required trips to U.S. Customs and Border Protection offices to ensure all necessary documentation is ready for the assigned vessels.
• Liaise with U.S. Customs and Border Protection and other government authorities to ensure compliance with maritime, immigration, and security regulations.
• Verify timely and successful submission of import/export cargo manifests and related filings.
• Abide by all federal, state, and local laws, including all maritime rules, guidelines, and safety regulations.
• Respond to all principal/customer inquiries in line with Corporate Operations Manual Policies or Principal Governing Working Instructions.
• Act as the primary liaison between the vessel, terminal, port authorities, government agencies, and customers.
• Provide timely updates and responsive service to customers and stakeholders.
• Communicate effectively with principals, customers, vessel masters, Port Authority, terminals, and government agencies to ensure smooth operations and positive relationships.
• Assist in preparing accurate port cost estimates and pro-forma disbursement accounts for client approval and pre-funding as required.
• Help manage cost control efforts through careful procurement of outside services and strong vendor oversight to ensure high-quality vendor management. 
• Ensure the quality and cost-effectiveness of third-party services.
• Support the billing process by coordinating and submitting documentation for timely invoicing.
• Maintain organized files and ensure that documentation is complete, accurate, and submitted on time.
• Provide administrative support to management as needed, including reporting and operational planning.
• Travel to and provide operational support to other ports as required.
• 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.

Requirements:

Education/Experience

• A combination of relevant education (e.g., degree, certifications) and hands-on experience is preferred. 
• High School diploma or GED required; bachelor’s degree in business, maritime, logistics, or a related field desirable. 
• Prior experience in maritime, shipping, or port agency operations strongly preferred.

Competencies

• Proficient in using computer software and applications, with a strong ability to quickly adapt to new technologies and tools.
• First Aid skills or certificates are considered assets.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, including Outlook, Excel, and Word.
• Solid understanding of basic accounting principles. 
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Comfortable collaborating with internal teams and external vendors and customers to gather necessary information.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and efficient in managing tasks.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills. 
• Strong conflict resolution and negotiation skills, with the ability to influence others effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to deliver excellent customer service and results under pressure.
• Self-directed, yet team focused and results oriented.
• Ability to remain calm and act decisively in high-pressure situations.
• Strong communication skills, with groups and in individual interactions to solve problems.
• Possess a valid driver’s license and acceptable motor vehicle record.
• Must be able to provide and maintain automobile insurance according to state laws.
• Must be able to obtain a Transportation Workers Identification Card (TWIC) within 90 days of hire.
• Must have reliable and consistent transportation, as approved by terminals/ports.
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule based on business needs, including days, nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Must be able to lift 25 pounds.

Working Conditions:

• This position is based both indoors and outdoors in a variety of environments, including maritime ports, docks, and vessels. Outdoor work may involve exposure to extreme weather conditions such as heat, rain, wind, and cold.
• Regular exposure to dust, noise, mechanical hazards, and active marine environments is expected.
• May spend extended periods driving or on standby, requiring prolonged sitting.
• Frequent physical activity, including standing, walking, lifting (up to 25 pounds), bending, stooping, and carrying transport-related items is required.
• Climbing gangways and boarding vessels in challenging weather or sea conditions may be required.
• Minimal exposure to physical risk; however, employees must follow all company safety protocols, including proper ergonomic practices and general workplace safety procedures.
• May be required to attend safety briefings or training relevant to the maritime and transportation industries to support understanding of company operations.
• Must adhere to all workplace policies and contribute to a safe, organized, and professional office environment.

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.