Job Purpose

The Port Captain (Dry Bulk) is responsible for optimizing the commercial and operational performance of the dry bulk fleet during port calls and cargo operations. This role involves acting as the on-site or shore-based technical expert ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant loading and discharging of dry bulk commodities. The ultimate goal is to minimize port turnaround times, prevent cargo damage, eliminate demurrage (delay penalties), and maintain strict compliance with international maritime safety codes.

Key Responsibilities

1. Cargo Operations & Stowage Optimization

• Review, optimize, and approve vessel stowage plans, stability calculations, and stress limits prior to arrival.
• Oversee complex bulk cargo operations, including high-density ores, draft-restricted grain loading, and hazardous/self-heating materials (coal, DRI, bauxite).
• Implement strict compliance with the IMSBC Code (International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes) and BLU Code (Bulk Carrier Loading and Unloading).
• Provide expertise on cargo hold preparation, grain-clean standards, and hold washing techniques to ensure vessels pass strict independent inspections without delay.

2. On-Site Port Supervision & Turnaround Management

• Attend vessels at key load/discharge ports globally to supervise critical cargo operations and protect the owner/charterer’s commercial interests.
• Liaise closely with Stevedores, Port Agents, Terminals, and Shippers to coordinate optimal loading/discharging sequences (e.g., maximizing grab efficiency, managing conveyor rates).
• Monitor daily loading rates and vessel draft surveys to ensure accurate cargo intake and prevent cargo shortfalls or overloading.

3. Claims Management & Loss Prevention

• Mitigate and manage commercial risks, including cargo contamination, moisture migration, and mechanical breakdowns of shipboard cranes/grabs.
• Appoint and coordinate with independent marine surveyors for draft surveys, bunker surveys, and hold cleanliness inspections.
• Collect, verify, and preserve evidence (logbooks, photos, time sheets) in the event of cargo damage, stevedore damage, or port delays to support legal or insurance claims.

4. Commercial Liaison & Laytime Optimization

• Collaborate closely with the shore-based Chartering and Operations teams to interpret Charter Party clauses related to port operations.
• Review and verify Statements of Facts (SoF) and port logs to ensure accurate laytime and demurrage/despatch calculations.
• Identify local port bottlenecks and provide actionable intelligence to chartering teams regarding local port regulations, restrictions, and drafts.

5. Safety, Quality & Environmental Compliance

• Enforce company Safety Management Systems (SMS) and international regulations during port stays.
• Ensure proper precautions are taken during cargo hold entry and that crews are trained in safe atmosphere testing.
• Monitor environmental safety, ensuring no cargo spillage into port waters and compliance with local dust suppression laws.

Requirements

• Sailing Experience: Master Mariner (Class 1 CoC) license will be advantageous .Sailing experience as Master or Chief Officer specifically onboard Bulk Carriers or MPV
• Shore Experience: 2–4 years of experience in a shore-based role as an Operations Superintendent, Port Captain, or Cargo Surveyor within the dry bulk sector is highly preferred.
• Technical Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of bulk carrier stability, draft surveying, and the handling characteristics of diverse bulk commodities.
• Commercial Knowledge: Familiarity with standard dry bulk Charter Party terms (e.g., NYPE, Amwelsh) and laytime concepts.
• Open to fresh from sea

Benefits

Chan Chee Meng
EA 07C3069
R1110620