Philadelphia, PA

Terminal Manager

Terminal Manager, Marine Cargo Operations, PA

Location: Mid-Atlantic | River & Deep-Water Terminal
Employment Type: Full-Time | On-Site
Industry: Marine Terminals, Stevedoring, Port Operations


Position Overview

A confidential marine terminal operator is seeking an experienced Terminal Manager to oversee day-to-day cargo operations at a high-volume, multi-cargo waterfront facility. This role has full responsibility for operational performance, labor management, safety, maintenance coordination, and customer service across vessel, yard, and gate activities.

The ideal candidate brings strong leadership experience in stevedoring and terminal operations, with the ability to manage union labor, multiple cargo types, and fast-paced vessel schedules while maintaining strict safety and regulatory compliance.


Key Responsibilities

  • Direct and oversee all terminal operations, including vessel loading/discharge, yard operations, and gate activity
  • Lead, supervise, and coordinate union and non-union labor, foremen, and operational supervisors
  • Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements (OSHA, USCG, port authority standards)
  • Manage daily and weekly vessel planning, berth scheduling, labor allocation, and equipment utilization
  • Oversee terminal equipment operations and coordinate maintenance and repair activities
  • Monitor and improve operational productivity, turnaround times, and cost controls
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for customers, agents, and vessel representatives during port calls
  • Investigate incidents, near misses, and operational disruptions; implement corrective actions
  • Prepare operational reports, KPIs, and performance metrics for senior leadership
  • Support capital projects, terminal improvements, and process optimization initiative

Cargo & Operational Scope (Experience Desired)

  • Breakbulk & project cargo
  • Steel products (coils, slabs, plate, pipe)
  • Forest products
  • Containers and/or Ro-Ro (preferred but not required)
  • Heavy lift and specialized cargo operations

Qualifications

  • 7+ years of progressive experience in marine terminal or stevedoring operations
  • Prior experience as a Terminal Manager, Assistant Terminal Manager, Operations Manager, or Senior Superintendent
  • Demonstrated experience managing ILWU, ILA, or other union labor environments
  • Strong working knowledge of vessel operations, cargo handling, terminal safety, and equipment
  • Proven leadership ability in a high-throughput, deadline-driven port environment
  • Strong communication skills with labor, customers, agents, and internal stakeholders
  • Proficiency with terminal operating systems, scheduling tools, and Microsoft Office

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in river ports and tidal waterways
  • Background in multi-cargo terminals rather than single-commodity facilities
  • Familiarity with tariff structures, contracts, and marine service agreements
  • OSHA 30, TWIC, or other relevant port safety credentials

Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive base salary (commensurate with experience)
  • Annual performance bonus
  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and retirement plan
  • Paid time off and holidays

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