Careers

TITLE	Director of Engineering
DEPARTMENT	Engineering Services
CLASSIFICATION	Professional Employee
WAGE/SALARY
CLOSING DATE

Job Summary

Under the direction of the Port Director and CEO, the Director of Engineering Services provides leadership, oversight, and technical direction for the planning, design, permitting, and execution of engineering and infrastructure projects for the Port of Brownsville. The position is responsible for ensuring engineering projects and services are delivered in a safe, efficient, compliant, and cost-effective manner that supports Port operations, capital development, and long-term strategic objectives. The Director oversees internal engineering functions, manages consultant and contractor services, ensures regulatory compliance, and coordinates with internal departments and external agencies to support capital projects, utilities operations, and tenant development activities.

Job Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and oversight for engineering planning, design, and delivery of Port infrastructure, facilities, docks, utilities, and tenant development projects.
• Prepare requests for proposals (RFPs), participate in consultant selection, and oversee engineering consultants to ensure scope, quality, schedule, and budget compliance.
• Review engineering plans and specifications and oversee administration of construction and professional services contracts.
• Oversee preparation and submission of permit applications and supporting documentation to federal, state, and local regulatory agencies, including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
• Conduct or oversee inspections of docks, facilities, and infrastructure to assess condition, compliance, and maintenance needs and inform capital and infrastructure planning.
• Support dock, facilities, and long-range infrastructure planning in alignment with operational needs and capital improvement plans.
• Provide oversight and technical direction for Port-operated or managed water distribution, wastewater collection, and solid waste utility systems.
• Oversee utility-related regulatory compliance, including permits, renewals, and required reporting to state and federal agencies.
• Provide budgetary input and support utility rate analyses; coordinate policy recommendations and rate adjustments with executive leadership.
• Prepare, negotiate, and administer contracts for raw water, potable water, wastewater, and solid waste collection and disposal services.
• Review engineering-related bid documents for compliance with procurement policies, state law, and technical specifications.
• Coordinate with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and other regulatory agencies on federally funded construction and maintenance projects.
• Collaborate with other departments in preparing grant applications and supporting documentation for state and federal funding opportunities.
• Provide technical guidance to leasing and internal departments regarding tenant development, infrastructure capacity, and engineering requirements.
• Develop and manage the Engineering Services Department capital budget and provide technical input for Port-wide capital planning and prioritization.
• Oversee procurement of engineering services, equipment, and major capital assets in accordance with Port policies and applicable regulations.
• Perform related work and assume additional responsibilities as assigned or as necessary to meet operational needs.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a closely related engineering field.
• Licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.) in the State of Texas, or the ability to obtain licensure within a reasonable period of time.
• Ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in engineering, infrastructure development, utilities, or public works, including supervisory or project management experience.
• Extensive knowledge of engineering principles, practices, and standards applicable to port, maritime, industrial, and utility infrastructure.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple engineering projects concurrently and coordinate complex activities under varying conditions and constraints.
• Knowledge of water distribution and wastewater collection systems, including regulatory compliance and reporting requirements.
• Knowledge of applicable Port, city, state, and federal laws, rules, and regulations governing engineering, construction, utilities, and environmental compliance.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to communicate technical information clearly and effectively.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, consultants, contractors, regulatory agencies, and the public.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Engineering or a related field.
• Bilingual (English / Spanish).
• Experience in a maritime, port, or industrial infrastructure environment.

Work Conditions & Physical Demands

• Frequent exposure to outdoor weather conditions, including heat, cold, dust, humidity, and vehicle exhaust.
• Medium physical effort, including prolonged standing or walking for up to eight (8) continuous hours and occasional lifting of objects weighing up to fifty (50) pounds.
• Ability to withstand prolonged periods of standing, walking, sitting, and field activity.
• Frequent contact with employees, contractors, vendors, tenants, and the general public.
• Requires self-reliance, resourcefulness, effective communication with diverse groups, and consistent, punctual attendance.
• Frequent operation of a company vehicle; ability to work extended hours during peak operational periods or emergency situations.
• Occasional evenings, weekend, and holiday work; ability to manage multiple overlapping projects in a dynamic, fast-paced environment while exercising sound safety practices.

Additional Requirements

• Valid Texas Motor Vehicle Operator’s License.
• Ability to obtain a valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
• The selected candidate must pass a pre-employment drug screening and background investigation.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this classification. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications, and duties may be modified as operational needs require.

 

TITLE	Director of Facilities Maintenance
DEPARTMENT	Facilities Maintenance
CLASSIFICATION	Professional Employee – PE3
WAGE/SALARY
CLOSING DATE

 

Job Summary

Under the direction of the Port Director and CEO, the Director of Facilities Maintenance provides leadership and oversight for the planning, construction, maintenance, repair, and improvement of Port of Brownsville facilities, infrastructure, utilities, equipment, and grounds. The Director is responsible for ensuring departmental operations are efficient, safe, compliant, and aligned with organizational priorities. The position oversees project execution and resource allocation, conducts field inspections, monitors progress, and ensures adherence to approved work plans, safety standards, regulatory requirements, and budgetary parameters. The Director works closely with executive leadership and other departments to support capital planning, operational readiness, and long-term infrastructure needs.

Job Responsibilities

• • • Direct and oversee facilities maintenance, construction, and repair operations, including scheduling, prioritization, and resource allocation.
    • Assign and reallocate crews and equipment to meet workload demands and maintain operational efficiency.
    • Monitor projects for progress, quality, and conformance with work plans, specifications, safety standards, and timelines; modify work plans as conditions or priorities change.
    • Supervise the construction, maintenance, and repair of sidewalks, curbs, streets, utilities (water, sewer, drainage), docks, buildings, grounds, motor pool operations, and heavy construction equipment.
    • Coordinate with the Director of Engineering, department directors, and other staff to develop cost estimates, scopes of work, schedules, and resource requirements for construction, maintenance, and capital improvement projects.
    • Maintain accurate labor, material, equipment, and project records; prepare departmental reports related to operations, staffing, expenditures, safety, and project status.
    • Develop, administer, and monitor the Facilities Maintenance Department budget, including personnel, equipment, materials, contracts, and operating expenses; ensure compliance with approved budget limits.
    • Ensure compliance with safety regulations and best practices; identify hazards; and coordinate safety and skills training in collaboration with Human Resources.
    • Oversee the preparation of bid specifications and procurement documentation for rolling stock, heavy equipment, tools, materials, and contracted services, ensuring compliance with applicable procurement policies and regulations.
    • Provide leadership, guidance, and performance management for supervisory and technical staff; promote accountability, teamwork, professional development, and adherence to Port policies and standards.
    • Ensure facilities and infrastructure meet applicable operational, environmental, and regulatory requirements in a maritime port environment.
    • Respond to operational emergencies, after-hours issues, and critical maintenance needs to ensure continuity of Port operations and safety.
    • Perform related work and assume additional responsibilities as assigned or as necessary to meet operational needs.

 

Minimum Qualifications

• • • Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a closely related field; or an equivalent combination of education and extensive project or construction management experience.
    • Five (5) years of progressively responsible management experience in general construction, facilities maintenance, or public works operations.
    • Considerable knowledge of construction and maintenance practices, equipment, and materials used in public works and industrial facilities.
    • Demonstrated ability to plan, organize, assign, and supervise work programs involving skilled trades and maintenance personnel.
    • Knowledge of occupational hazards and safety precautions associated with construction, maintenance, and public works activities.
    • Ability to prepare clear, accurate reports and maintain detailed operational and financial records.
    • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, management, contractors, and the public.
    • Knowledge of planning processes, scheduling techniques, and resource allocation principles.
    • Demonstrated leadership ability, sound judgment, integrity, tact, and professionalism.
    • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
    • Strong administrative and organizational skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
    • Availability to travel as required.

Preferred Qualifications

• • • Master’s degree in a related field.
    • Bilingual (English / Spanish).
    • Experience in construction management, infrastructure systems, and equipment within a maritime or industrial port environment.

Work Conditions & Physical Demands

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this position.

• • • Frequent exposure to outdoor weather conditions, including heat, cold, dust, humidity, and vehicle exhaust.
    • Medium physical effort, including standing or walking and occasional lifting of objects weighing up to fifty (50) pounds.
    • Regular contact with employees, contractors, vendors, tenants, and the general public.
    • Operation of a company vehicle as required; ability to work extended hours during peak operational periods or emergency situations.
    • Occasional evening, weekend, and holiday work; ability to work independently and manage multiple, overlapping projects in a dynamic, fast-paced environment while exercising sound safety practices.

Additional Requirements

• • • Valid Texas Motor Vehicle Operator’s License.
  • • Ability to obtain a valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
    • The selected candidate must pass a pre-employment drug screening and background investigation.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this classification. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications, and duties may be modified as operational needs require.

 

TITLE	Mobile Harbor Crane Operator
DEPARTMENT	Harbor Master’s Office
CLASSIFICATION	Manual Technical Employee – MT4
WAGE/SALARY	$24.49 / hour
CLOSING DATE

  Job Summary
The Mobile Harbor Crane Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating the Port’s mobile harbor cranes for the movement, loading, and unloading of cargo, including containers, bulk materials, and general cargo. This crane includes a telescopic spreader bar for handling containers, a dual scoop motor grab, and a polyp-grab with a hydraulic unit. This position also performs routine inspections, preventative maintenance, and basic troubleshooting to ensure safe crane operation and compliance with all applicable safety standards. Work is performed primarily on the public docks of the Port of Brownsville and requires strict adherence to operational, safety, and environmental procedures.

Job Responsibilities

• Operate mobile harbor cranes for the handling of cargo, including containers, bulk commodities, and general cargo, using attachments such as a telescopic spreader bar, dual scoop motor grab, and polyp-grab with hydraulic unit.
• Conduct daily pre-operation and post-operation inspections, checking safety devices, mechanical functions, and fluid levels.
• Perform and document routine preventative maintenance tasks, including lubrication, cleaning, and minor adjustments, and report defects or required repairs.
• Ensure crane operations comply with OSHA, ANSI, Coast Guard, and Port safety regulations.
• Communicate effectively with signalers, stevedores, vessel crews, and other Port personnel during crane operations.
• Maintain accurate logs of crane usage, inspections, and maintenance.
• Assist in securing and preparing the crane for adverse weather conditions.
• Support cargo handling operations by following load charts, lift plans, and safety protocols to prevent overloading.
• Work variable schedules including nights, weekends, and holidays, with overtime as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support port operations.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Three (3) to five (5) years of experience operating a 30+ ton crane in port, construction, or industrial settings.
• Hands-on experience with computerized crane controls and/or computerized diagnostics for heavy equipment.
• Knowledge of crane load charts, rigging practices, and safe lifting operations.
• Ability to read, understand, and follow oral and written instructions, including hand signals.
• Ability to work cooperatively and maintain effective working relationships with colleagues, supervisors, and the general public.
• Physical ability to perform manual tasks requiring strength, endurance, climbing, and working outdoors under variable weather conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual in English and Spanish.
• NCCCO (National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators) or equivalent certification.
• Previous port or maritime cargo-handling experience.

Work Conditions & Physical Demands

• Frequent exposure to outdoor weather conditions including heat, cold, dust, noise, and exhaust.
• Medium physical effort, including prolonged sitting in crane cabin (up to 8 continuous hours), standing, walking, and lifting objects up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to climb stairs, ladders, and access crane cabins at elevated heights.
• Tolerance for working in confined spaces, at heights, and around heavy equipment.
• Frequent interaction with the public, vessel crews, and port users.

Additional Requirements

• Valid Texas Motor Vehicle Operator’s License.
• Must possess, or be able to obtain, a valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
• Must pass a pre-employment drug screening, physical examination, and background investigation.
• Subject to random drug and alcohol testing under federal regulations for safety-sensitive positions.

The above duties may not be performed in every position with the title and the above functions may not include all related duties that might be performed.

TITLE	Security Guard
DEPARTMENT	Security/Police Department
CLASSIFICATION	Manual Technical Employee – MT1
WAGE/SALARY	$ 15.00 per hour

 

Job Summary

The Security Guard position is responsible for maintaining security and monitoring public access to the Port of Brownsville. Duties include regulating vehicle and pedestrian traffic, ensuring compliance with the Facility Security Plan, and providing support during emergencies. The position requires professionalism, integrity, and strong customer service skills. This is an unarmed position with rotating 8-hour shifts, subject to call-outs and working extra hours. The position operates on a 24-hour schedule, with day and night shifts, including weekends and holidays.

Job Responsibilities

• Control vehicle and pedestrian traffic to the Port of Brownsville in accordance with the Facility Security Plan and maintain orderly flow.
• Sell daily port entry permits to drivers entering the Port.
• Monitor and secure restricted areas including dock facilities.
• Assist during special events, power outages, and emergencies.
• Complete and submit accurate shift reports.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish).
• Valid Texas driver’s license.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
• Minimum of six months of related security experience.
• Familiarity with Port of Brownsville rules, regulations, and policies (or ability to learn them within the probationary period).
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to maintain accurate logs and reports.
• Ability to work effectively with employees and the public.

Preferred Qualifications

• • Security-related certifications or licenses.
  • One year of security experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Completion of a law enforcement-related certificate from a college or technical school.

Work Conditions & Physical Demands

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

• • • Constant exposure to outdoor conditions (heat, cold, rain, dust, and vehicle exhaust).
    • Ability to stand for up to 8 hours and lift objects up to 50 lbs.
    • Requires prolonged standing, walking, and/or sitting.
    • Constant interaction with the public.

Additional Requirements

• • • • Selected candidate must pass a pre-employment drug screening, criminal history check, and a background investigation to be eligible for consideration.

The above duties may not be performed in every position with the title and the above functions may not include all related duties that might be performed.

The Port of Brownsville is an equal opportunity, affirmative action organization. The Port of Brownsville prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status.

TITLE	Skilled Craftsman
DEPARTMENT	Facilities Maintenance
CLASSIFICATION	Manual Technical Employee – MT4
WAGE/SALARY	$ 19.35 per hour ($40,248 annually)

  Job Summary

This position is a highly experienced role responsible for performing advanced work across multiple trades, including construction, electrical, HVAC, carpentry, welding, fabrication, plumbing, painting, auto mechanics, and heavy equipment maintenance. The employee must have hands-on experience in building construction, including framing, cement work, roofing, drywall, and mechanical repairs. This position requires the ability to read and interpret technical drawings, wiring diagrams, and construction plans to complete diverse projects with accuracy. The Skilled Craftsman works independently and is expected to maintain Port facilities in safe, functional, and reliable conditions.

Comparable roles in industry may include Mechanic, Electrician, HVAC Technician, Carpenter, or Welder.

Job Responsibilities Maintenance & Repair

• Diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair HVAC, electrical, plumbing, carpentry, and structural systems.
• Perform preventive maintenance and inspections on HVAC, ventilation, plumbing, and electrical infrastructure.
• Repair and maintain motor vehicles, facility machinery, and heavy equipment (e.g., graders, loaders, backhoes, excavators).
• Inspect, maintain, and repair building systems, including doors, windows, floors, roofs, walls, and foundations.

Construction & Fabrication

• Perform construction tasks such as cement work, framing, drywall installation and finishing, roofing, and painting.
• Fabricate and install metal components using welding, cutting, and precision fabrication tools.
• Construct, repair, or remodel facilities, including cabinetry, shelving, and built structures.
• Complete finish work such as plastering, tiling, caulking, and surface preparation.

Technical & Planning

• Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, wiring diagrams, manuals, and specifications.
• Safely operate power tools, hand tools, welding equipment, and heavy machinery.
• Use precision instruments to measure, cut, align, and assemble materials accurately.
• Plan, prioritize, and complete projects independently; may assign and oversee work of helpers.

General

• Maintain records of work performed, parts used, and time spent on assignments.
• Respond to emergency situations during and outside normal hours to restore safe operations.
• Follow Port safety protocols and ensure compliance with workplace safety standards.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum of three (3) years of documented experience across multiple trades (e.g., carpentry, cement work, construction, framing, roofing, plumbing, drywall, or painting).
• Two (2) years of HVAC training or equivalent certification and experience preferred.
• Three (3) years of experience in electrical construction, industrial maintenance, or a related technical field preferred.
• Proficiency in:
• Precision measuring instruments and diagnostic tools
• AC/DC welding equipment
• Power and hand tools for construction and repair work
• Ability to read and interpret technical documents, schematics, and blueprints.
• Strong troubleshooting and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to perform complex assignments requiring independent judgment.
• Ability to operate heavy equipment such as backhoes, excavators, loaders, and graders.
• Effective communication skills with ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Knowledge of safety practices related to manual labor, mechanized equipment, and PPE.
• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers and the public.

  Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual (English/Spanish).
• Valid Texas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
• Certifications in multiple trades, such as HVAC, electrical systems, welding, carpentry, or plumbing.
• OSHA or other recognized safety certifications.
• Experience working in large-scale industrial or public-sector facilities.

Work Conditions & Physical Demands

• Regular exposure to outdoor environments including heat, cold, dust, wind, and industrial hazards.
• Exposure to fumes or airborne particles, moving mechanical parts, and vibration.
• Requires physical stamina with frequent standing, walking, climbing, bending, and lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Must be able to climb ladders, work at heights, and enter confined spaces as needed.
• May involve use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, respirators, and fall-protection gear.
• Frequent interaction with coworkers, vendors, contractors, and members of the public.

Additional Requirements

• Valid Texas Motor Vehicle Operator’s
• Must possess, or be able to obtain, a valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
• Selected candidate must pass a pre-employment drug screening and background check.

The above duties may not be performed in every position with this job title and the above functions may not include all related duties that might be performed.