Cargo Handler

Roles and responsibilities

Responsible for the management and supervision of cargo operations on vessels, including stevedoring and equipment management functions, relating to all aspects of cargo handling and logistics support services.

Experience & Skills

1. Comprehensive knowledge of cargo operations planning for dry cargoes and oil terminals including stevedore operations of a multi cargo port.

2. Thorough knowledge of port operations contracts and experience in managing port labour.

3. Thorough knowledge of port safety, accident prevention codes, regulations and marine industry governmental regulations related to ports.

4. Considerable knowledge of the management and commercial use of dock areas, warehouse facilities and terminals.
Supervision & Team Management:
Oversee Cargo Operations: Supervise a team of cargo handlers, ensuring that cargo is handled according to the established procedures and within the allocated timeframes.
Assign Tasks: Distribute tasks among cargo handling staff based on priorities and available resources, ensuring efficient workflow and productivity.
Ensure Safety: Enforce all safety protocols and procedures to prevent accidents and injuries. Ensure that staff are properly trained on safety equipment and emergency procedures.
Performance Management: Monitor and evaluate team performance, providing feedback, training, and motivation to improve productivity and morale. Address any issues or conflicts that arise within the team.
Cargo Handling & Loading/Unloading:
Supervise Loading and Unloading: Ensure that cargo is loaded and unloaded efficiently and securely using appropriate equipment (e.g., cranes, forklifts, conveyors). This includes heavy or oversized items that require special handling.
Inspect Cargo: Ensure that all cargo is inspected for damage, discrepancies, and proper documentation before loading and unloading.
Organize Cargo Storage: Ensure that cargo is properly stored in designated areas, considering factors such as weight distribution, storage conditions, and accessibility.
Use of Equipment: Oversee the safe operation of material handling equipment (e.g., forklifts, cranes, pallet jacks) and ensure that it is properly maintained and operated.
Inventory Management:
Track Cargo Movement: Monitor and track the movement of goods throughout the supply chain. Ensure that cargo is processed according to schedule and accurately documented.
Inventory Accuracy: Ensure that stock levels are accurately recorded in the system and that cargo is properly tagged, labelled, and tracked to avoid loss or damage.
Coordinate with Warehousing Teams: Work closely with warehouse teams to ensure that cargo is stored correctly, items are easily accessible, and inventory is regularly updated.
Customer & Vendor Coordination:
Coordinate with Clients and Vendors: Communicate with shipping lines, airlines, or freight forwarders to ensure timely arrival and departure of shipments. Manage documentation and shipment requirements.
Resolve Issues: Address and resolve issues or discrepancies in shipments, such as delays, incorrect cargo documentation, or damaged goods.
Compliance & Documentation:
Ensure Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all cargo handling activities comply with local, international, and industry regulations, including customs regulations, safety standards, hazardous material handling, and environmental guidelines.
Prepare Reports: Maintain accurate records of cargo movements, loading/unloading activities, and inventory levels. Prepare reports for upper management or regulatory bodies as required.
Documentation: Ensure that all shipping and cargo handling documents, such as bills of lading, air waybills, and customs documentation, are correctly filled out and submitted.
Quality Control & Improvement:
Monitor Quality Control: Ensure cargo is handled properly, minimizing the risk of damage or loss. Perform quality checks and work with the team to identify and correct deficiencies in cargo handling processes.
Suggest Improvements: Continuously evaluate operations and suggest improvements to processes, equipment, or staffing to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction.
Safety & Emergency Protocols:
Safety Protocols: Ensure adherence to safety protocols, including wearing proper personal protective equipment (PPE), ensuring safe equipment operation, and implementing procedures to handle hazardous materials.
Emergency Response: Be prepared to lead emergency response efforts in case of accidents, spills, or other safety incidents. Ensure all team members are trained in emergency procedures.

Desired candidate profile

Technical Skills:

• Cargo Handling Equipment: Knowledge of cargo handling equipment (e.g., forklifts, cranes, conveyor belts, pallet jacks), including operation, safety, and maintenance.
• Inventory Management: Proficiency in inventory management systems (e.g., WMS - Warehouse Management Systems, TMS - Transportation Management Systems).
• Documentation: Knowledge of shipping and cargo documentation, such as bills of lading, air waybills, customs declarations, and tracking systems.

Management and Leadership:

• Team Leadership: Strong ability to lead, motivate, and manage a team of workers, ensuring productivity and morale are maintained.
• Time Management: Ability to prioritize and allocate resources efficiently to meet operational deadlines.
• Conflict Resolution: Ability to manage conflicts or challenges within the team or with external stakeholders and find solutions quickly.

Problem-Solving and Decision-Making:

• Analytical Thinking: Ability to analyze cargo operations and identify inefficiencies or risks, and implement solutions to mitigate them.
• Decision Making: Ability to make quick, effective decisions under pressure, especially during peak seasons or when dealing with emergencies.

Communication:

• Clear Communication: Strong communication skills to liaise with team members, customers, shipping lines, vendors, and management.
• Bilingual (if applicable): In some regions, being bilingual or multilingual can be a valuable asset when coordinating with international clients or vendors.

Attention to Detail:

• Ensuring that cargo is handled accurately, safely, and efficiently, with a focus on preventing errors and ensuring that all documents and regulations are followed.