Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Harbor Manager

🎯 Role Definition

We are actively searching for a dynamic and experienced Harbor Manager to take the helm of our vibrant marina and port facilities. This pivotal role involves the comprehensive management of all harbor operations, ensuring a safe, efficient, and welcoming environment for all commercial and recreational vessels. The Harbor Manager serves as the primary authority for waterfront activities, balancing regulatory enforcement with strategic business development. You will be responsible for leading a dedicated team, managing significant budgets, and acting as a key liaison between government agencies, tenants, the boating community, and the public. If you are a decisive leader with a deep understanding of maritime operations and a passion for waterfront management, we invite you to apply.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Assistant Harbor Master / Deputy Harbor Master
Marina General Manager
Port Operations Supervisor
Senior Coast Guard or Naval Officer

Advancement To:

Director of Port Operations
Regional Maritime Director
Port Authority Executive Director / CEO

Lateral Moves:

Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO)
Waterfront Development Director
Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) Manager

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Direct and oversee all daily operational activities of the harbor, including vessel traffic management, berthing/mooring assignments, and allocation of dock space to ensure safe and efficient traffic flow.
Develop, implement, and rigorously enforce all harbor rules, regulations, and policies in accordance with local, state, and federal maritime laws (including USCG, EPA, and Army Corps of Engineers).
Formulate and manage the annual operating and capital improvement budgets for the harbor, monitoring expenditures, maximizing revenue streams, and preparing detailed financial forecasts and reports.
Lead, train, and supervise all harbor personnel, including dockmasters, administrative staff, and maintenance crews, fostering a culture of safety, professionalism, and outstanding customer service.
Serve as the lead coordinator for all emergency response situations within the harbor jurisdiction, including medical emergencies, fires, vessel groundings, and environmental spills, in collaboration with law enforcement and first responders.
Plan, schedule, and oversee the comprehensive maintenance, repair, and long-term improvement of all harbor infrastructure, including docks, piers, buildings, navigational aids, and equipment.
Act as the primary liaison and build strong working relationships with key stakeholders, including boat owners, commercial fishermen, yacht clubs, charter operators, government agencies, and the general public.
Manage all commercial activities and tenant relationships within the harbor, including negotiating lease agreements, ensuring contract compliance, and resolving disputes.
Ensure the harbor's strict adherence to all environmental regulations, overseeing programs for waste management, pollution prevention, and water quality monitoring.
Develop and execute strategic plans for the harbor's long-term growth, including business development initiatives, marketing programs, and capital projects to enhance facilities and services.
Oversee the administration of all harbor finances, including the accurate billing and collection of fees for moorage, leases, utilities, and other services.
Conduct regular safety and security inspections of the entire harbor facility, identifying potential hazards and implementing corrective actions to mitigate risks.
Prepare and present comprehensive reports, policy recommendations, and budget proposals to city councils, port commissions, or other governing bodies.
Champion and manage the development and execution of capital improvement projects from conception and design through funding, bidding, and construction management.

Secondary Functions

Develop and maintain public relations and community outreach programs to promote the harbor's activities, events, and economic impact.
Represent the harbor at industry conferences, community meetings, and public forums to advocate for its interests and stay abreast of maritime trends.
Investigate and formally report on all accidents, incidents, and security breaches occurring within the harbor's jurisdiction.
Review and approve permits for marine events, construction activities, and other special uses of the harbor facilities and waterways.
Oversee the procurement of necessary supplies, equipment, and contracted services in accordance with established purchasing policies.
Mediate and resolve conflicts and complaints from tenants, patrons, and the public in a fair and timely manner.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Maritime Law & Regulation: In-depth knowledge of local, state, and federal maritime regulations, including USCG rules, environmental compliance (Clean Water Act), and navigation laws.
Financial Acumen & Budgeting: Proven ability to develop, manage, and report on large-scale operational and capital budgets, with experience in revenue generation and financial analysis.
Facility & Infrastructure Management: Strong understanding of marine construction, preventative maintenance programs for docks, piers, and waterfront structures.
Emergency Management & ICS: Proficiency in emergency response protocols and the Incident Command System (ICS) for managing maritime incidents effectively.
Vessel Operations: Solid understanding of vessel handling, seamanship, navigation principles, and mooring techniques.
Marina Management Software: Proficiency with specialized software for reservations, billing, and facility management (e.g., Molo, Dockwa, or similar platforms).
Contract & Lease Administration: Experience negotiating, managing, and enforcing tenant leases and vendor contracts.

Soft Skills

Leadership & Team Management: Exceptional ability to lead, motivate, and manage a diverse team, including union and non-union staff, to achieve operational excellence.
Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Superior verbal and written communication skills for effective interaction with government officials, staff, boaters, and the public.
Conflict Resolution & Negotiation: Adept at de-escalating situations, mediating disputes, and negotiating favorable outcomes with various stakeholders.
Strategic Planning & Problem-Solving: Ability to think critically, anticipate future needs, and develop long-term strategic plans while effectively solving immediate operational challenges.
Customer Service Excellence: A strong commitment to providing a high level of service and creating a positive experience for all harbor users.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

Bachelor's Degree or equivalent combination of professional maritime certification and extensive experience.

Preferred Education:

Master's Degree in a relevant field. Certified Marina Manager (CMM) or Certified Port Executive (CPE) designation is highly desirable.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Maritime Administration or Marine Transportation
Business or Public Administration
Coastal Zone Management
Operations Management

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

7-10 years of progressively responsible experience in port, harbor, or marina management, with at least 3-5 years in a significant supervisory or leadership capacity.

Preferred:

Direct experience as an Assistant Harbor Master, Marina General Manager, or in a senior port operations role.
Proven track record in managing capital improvement projects and securing grant funding.
Experience working within a municipal or public agency environment and reporting to a commission or city council.