Vessel Pre-Planner

Company Description

Based in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Marinus Services ULC. navigates the complexities of global trade with precision, offering top-tier technical support services in North America.

Marinus Services is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Vessel Pre-Planner to support vessel planning and coordination activities. This role is responsible for developing pre-arrival vessel plans, coordinating operational resources, reviewing stowage information, and working closely with shipping lines, vessel operators, terminal operations, and other stakeholders to support safe, efficient, and cost-effective vessel operations.

The Opportunity

Are you experienced in marine or container terminal operations and enjoy coordinating complex operational activities? We are looking for a Vessel Pre-Planner with a strong understanding of container terminal operations, logistics, and vessel planning to join our team.

Reporting to Director, Operational Support Group, you will play an important role in preparing vessel plans ahead of arrival, coordinating operational requirements, monitoring planning accuracy, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives. This position requires strong analytical and organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to work in a fast-paced operational environment. Experience with Terminal Operating Systems (TOS), particularly Navis N4, is an asset.

What You’ll Do

• Develop and maintain accurate pre-arrival vessel plans based on vessel specifications, cargo requirements, stowage information, and terminal operating capabilities.
• Coordinate berth, crane, yard, equipment, and labour requirements to support efficient vessel operations.
• Work with stowage planners to review prestow plans, container types, weights, vessel configurations, and loading and discharge requirements.
• Use the Terminal Operating System (TOS), including Navis N4 where applicable, to create, update, monitor, and optimize vessel plans.
• Coordinate with shipping lines, vessel operators, terminal operations, labour, and internal teams regarding vessel requirements, planning changes, and operational issues.
• Review vessel specifications, cargo manifests, BAPLIE files, stowage information, and other operational documentation to identify and resolve discrepancies.
• Monitor vessel planning accuracy, resource utilization, productivity, and operational performance indicators.
• Support operational and financial reporting, including Vessel Activity Reports, resource utilization, and associated operational costs.
• Ensure vessel plans and related activities align with terminal safety requirements, applicable regulations, and established operating procedures.
• Identify opportunities to improve planning processes, workflows, system utilization, productivity, and overall operational efficiency.

What We're Looking For

• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in container terminal operations, marine operations, logistics, transportation, supply chain, or a closely related industry preferred.
• Previous experience in vessel planning, cargo operations, or operational planning is strongly preferred.
• Education in Marine Administration, Transportation, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, Engineering, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant industry experience.
• Strong understanding of container terminal operations, marine logistics, and supply chain processes.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, organizational, and process evaluation skills.
• Proficient using operational systems and technology, with the ability to work effectively with terminal, transportation, and cargo management systems.
• Experience with Terminal Operating Systems (TOS), particularly Navis N4, is an asset.
• Experience working with or coordinating unionized operations is an asset.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, exercise sound judgment, and make timely decisions in a fast-paced operational environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders at all organizational levels.
• A strong focus on safety, productivity, cost control, and operational efficiency.
• Ability to develop and maintain structured workflows and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
• Flexibility to work varied hours, including nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime, based on operational requirements.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel as required.
• Ability to meet the physical requirements of the position, including climbing stairs, navigating uneven surfaces, and lifting up to 45 pounds.

What we offer

• Marinus’ Comprehensive Benefits Plan.
• Company matched registered retirement savings plan.
• Generous vacation and paid time-off provisions.
• Eligible for our annual discretionary bonus program.

Why Join Us?

At Marinus Services, you'll be part of a collaborative and growing team supporting the marine terminal industry. You will have the opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals, contribute to complex vessel planning activities, and play an important role in improving operational performance, efficiency, and service delivery.

If you have a background in marine or terminal operations, enjoy solving operational challenges, and are motivated by improving processes and performance, we'd love to hear from you.

Interested?

Apply today by submitting your resume to [email protected]. Include a brief note highlighting your relevant marine, terminal operations, or vessel planning experience and what interests you about joining the Marinus Services team.

We thank all applicants for their interest; qualified applicants will be contacted with the next steps.