Senior Cargo Planner

Job Title: Senior Cargo Planner – Stevedoring

Location: Miami, FL

Position Summary

The Senior Cargo Planner is responsible for vessel stowage planning and the coordination of cargo loading and unloading activities. This role works closely with stevedores and equipment operators to ensure cargo is handled safely, efficiently, and in compliance with operational procedures and international regulations. The position also supports vessel operations across multiple countries and requires strong planning, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Applicants must reside within the designated geographic region to be considered.

Qualifications

Required

• Merchant Marine degree or a minimum of five (5) years’ experience as a Ship Mate, Chief Mate, or Cargo Planner
• Experience using vessel planning systems
• Experience handling hazardous or dangerous cargo
• Strong knowledge of vessel stability and trim
• Advanced English communication skills, both written and verbal
• Intermediate to advanced proficiency with standard office software
• Strong written documentation and reporting skills
• Effective interpersonal skills with the ability to work across operational and management teams
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Strong organizational, time management, and prioritization skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment
• Flexibility to work non-standard schedules as required
• Must hold or be able to obtain required port access credentials within 30 days of employment

Preferred

• Experience with specialized vessel stowage planning software

Duties and Responsibilities

Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain vessel stowage plans
• Perform vessel stability and trim calculations
• Plan and segregate hazardous materials in compliance with regulations
• Coordinate with operational teams to ensure cargo availability and avoid delays or additional costs
• Resolve discrepancies between stowage plans and actual cargo loaded
• Coordinate with commercial and dispatch teams to meet sailing schedules
• Support and train junior cargo planning staff
• Oversee vessel loading and unloading operations across multiple locations
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and international shipping regulations
• Monitor and improve cargo handling efficiency
• Maintain accurate cargo records and documentation

Secondary Responsibilities

• Liaise with terminal staff and equipment operators to resolve cargo location or replacement issues
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Physical Requirements

• Frequent use of hands and fingers
• Regular verbal communication and hearing
• Primarily seated work with occasional standing and walking
• Ability to lift or move up to 20 pounds
• Vision requirements include close, distance, color, peripheral, and depth perception

Safety Requirements

• Report hazards, incidents, and unsafe conditions immediately
• Comply with all safety policies and procedures
• Wear required personal protective equipment
• Participate in safety meetings and training
• Maintain awareness of personal and coworker safety

Supervision

Works under direct supervision of operations leadership. May provide guidance to other operational staff but does not have formal supervisory responsibility. Exercises independent judgment and discretion in daily activities.

Work Environment

• Combination of office, terminal, and operational environments
• Exposure to noise, dust, fumes, and varying weather conditions
• Moderate to high noise levels in operational areas

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

Kieran Mead