Careers

TITLE	Chief of Police & Security
DEPARTMENT	Police & Security
CLASSIFICATION	Professional Employee
WAGE/SALARY	Commensurate with Experience
CLOSING DATE

 

Job Summary

Under the direction of the Port Director and CEO, the Chief of Police & Security provides leadership, oversight, and strategic direction for all functions of the Security and Police Department, including the planning, organization, and administration of public safety operations for the Port of Brownsville. The position is responsible for ensuring law enforcement, security, and homeland security functions are carried out in a safe, effective, and compliant manner in accordance with applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations. The Chief oversees departmental operations, resource allocation, and service delivery, including coordination with internal departments, external law enforcement agencies, and entities contracting with the Port for public safety services. The Chief of Police & Security develops and implements public safety strategies that support Port operations, emergency preparedness, regulatory compliance, and long-term organizational objectives. The position exercises broad discretion in departmental management and is accountable for operational effectiveness, efficiency, and fiscal responsibility while serving as a certified peace officer in the performance of assigned duties.  

Job Responsibilities

The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by this incumbent.  They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.

• Leads, plans, organizes, controls, integrates, and evaluates the work of the department; with the support of subordinate staff, develops, integrates, implements, and monitors work programs, policies and processes to achieve department and Port of Brownsville goals.
• Collaborates with the Administration Team in the development of long-term and short-term goals and priorities, in alignment with the Port of Brownsville mission.
• Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the Port of Brownsville policies, ordinances, and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.
• Establishes performance requirements and employee goals; regularly monitors performance and provides coaching for performance improvement and development; takes disciplinary action, up to and including termination, to address performance deficiencies, in accordance with Port of Brownsville Human Resources policies, local, state, and federal regulations.
• Enforces, through the Lieutenant, Sergeant and staff, federal laws, state statutes and local ordinances within the Port of Brownsville jurisdiction.
• Meets with officials and others on department administrative matters; serves as a member of law enforcement committees, boards, and ad hoc groups; negotiates and coordinates with other agencies on critical and complex matters.
• Serves as the Alternate Facility Security Officer and works in coordination with the Facility Security Officer to ensure compliance with maritime security regulations.
• Directs the preparation and analysis of records, reports, and crime pattern data to ensure efficient operations and to comply with authorized requests for information regarding activities and personnel of the department.
• Attends professional conferences and training to remain current on law enforcement and public safety practices.
• Collaborates with other Port of Brownsville department heads to coordinate Police and Security Department activities that cross department lines of control.
• Directs the development and implementation of initiatives, policies and programs to strengthen crime prevention and support for department programs and policies.
• Promotes and directs the development and implementation of technology and information systems to improve department effectiveness and performance.
• Promotes a leadership philosophy that is approachable and fosters a culture of collaboration, accountability, and open communication.
• Plans, develops, and administers the Police and Security Department budget.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, Law Enforcement, Public Administration, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and extensive law enforcement experience.
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible law enforcement experience, with prior service at the rank of Commander or Captain, Deputy Chief, Assistant Chief or Chief.
• Comprehensive knowledge of law enforcement theory, principles, crime prevention strategies, and police administration.
• Experience in public administration, budgeting, and resource management.
• Strong understanding of local, state, and federal laws relevant to public safety and law enforcement.
• Excellent leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships with stakeholders at all levels.
• Ability to exercise tact and diplomacy in dealing with sensitive, complex and often confidential issues and situations.
• Demonstrated ability to prepare comprehensive reports and studies related to public safety and departmental operations.
• Ability to manage and develop a diverse team of sworn and civilian personnel effectively.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in criminal justice, Public Administration, or a closely related field.
• Seven (7) or more years of progressively responsible law enforcement experience.
• TCOLE Master Peace Officer Certification.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish.

Additional Requirements

• Active Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) Peace Officer’s License.
• TCOLE Advanced Peace Officer Certification.
• Valid Texas Class C driver’s license at the time of appointment and maintained thereafter.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
• Must pass a pre-employment physical exam, drug screening, and background investigation.

Work Conditions & Physical Demands

The work environment characteristics described here are representative, and do not include all, of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

• Frequent exposure to outdoor weather conditions, including heat, cold, dust, and vehicle exhaust.
• Requires standing for long periods and occasional lifting of objects up to 25 lbs.
• Ability to walk and/or sit for prolonged periods.

This job description outlines the key duties and requirements but is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities. Duties and qualifications may be adjusted as necessary to meet organizational needs.

TITLE	Electrician I
DEPARTMENT	Facilities Maintenance
CLASSIFICATION	Manual Technical Employee – MT2
WAGE/SALARY	$19.35/hr.
CLOSING DATE

Job Summary

This job requires the use of drawings, wiring diagrams and specifications, a wide variety of precision measuring instruments, and a broad shop knowledge.  The job requires considerable physical effort along with continuous mental or visual effort.  This employee follows the lead of a licensed Electrician, or a Supervisor

Job Responsibilities

• Help troubleshoot and repair electrical power systems, control circuits, and camera systems.
• Help troubleshoot, repair electrical components within our sewer plants.
• Other duties as assigned included but not limited to different jobs that fall under the maintenance department.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED
• One to two years of experience in electrical construction or maintenance.
• Ability to use precision electrical and electronic instruments, AC and DC, hand tools, and other tools as assigned with proper instructions, as appropriate to the position being hired
• Ability to plan and perform unusual and difficult work involving the use of considerable ingenuity, initiative and judgment.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written direction.
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with other employees and the general public.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual (English / Spanish).

 

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.

• Frequent exposure to outside weather conditions such as heat, cold, dust, and vehicle exhaust.
• Medium physical effort including long periods of standing, up to 8 continuous hours and occasional lifting of objects up to 50 lbs.
• Withstand prolonged periods of standing, walking, and/or sitting.
• Frequent contact with the public.

Additional Requirements

• Valid Texas Motor Vehicle Operator’s License.
• 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 investigation to be hired for this position.

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	Equipment Operator
DEPARTMENT	Facilities Maintenance
CLASSIFICATION	Manual Technical Employee – MT2
WAGE/SALARY	$19.35 per hour ($40,248 annually)
CLOSING DATE

Job Summary

This position performs skilled tasks related to the operation, maintenance, and support of the District’s heavy equipment fleet. Equipment includes, but is not limited to, dump trucks, front-end loaders, backhoes, maintainers, hydraulic excavators, cranes and motor graders. This role requires the safe and efficient handling of large and complex equipment and includes responsibilities related to preventive maintenance, monitoring vendor-performed repairs, and maintaining parts inventory to reduce downtime.

Job Responsibilities

• Safely and efficiently operate heavy equipment such as front-end loaders, backhoes, maintainers, hydraulic excavators, and cranes.
• Perform minor repairs and routine preventive maintenance on assigned equipment.
• Maintain accurate and organized records of equipment operation, maintenance, and inspections.
• Assist in developing and implementing preventive maintenance schedules for all District heavy equipment.
• Coordinate with facilities maintenance supervisory staff to ensure adequate stock of commonly used repair parts to minimize downtime.
• Monitor and track repair work performed by outside vendors to ensure quality and timely completion.
• Follow all applicable safety rules, regulations, and standard operating procedures.
• Assist other personnel within the department when needed.
• Respond to emergency situations, such as storms or hurricanes, as required.
• Serve on stand-by (on-call) status when necessary.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Valid Texas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), Class A or B with applicable endorsements.
• Minimum of five (5) years of hands-on experience operating and maintaining heavy construction or maintenance equipment.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently in varied and sometimes irregular work conditions.
• Skilled in the operation of both heavy and light equipment.
• Ability to perform manual labor in extreme weather conditions (e.g., heat, cold, rain).
• Knowledge of maintenance tools and procedures for performing preventive maintenance and basic repairs.
• Understanding of state laws and regulations related to operating heavy equipment on public roads.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to maintain detailed and accurate records.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual (English / Spanish).
• Certifications in equipment operation
• Formal training or coursework in heavy equipment maintenance, safety, or mechanics.
• Experience working in port, maritime, or industrial settings.
• Demonstrated experience maintaining detailed maintenance logs and using computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).

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.

• Frequent exposure to outdoor elements including heat, cold, dust, and vehicle exhaust.
• Regularly required to stand, use hands to handle or feel, and reach with arms; frequent climbing is required.
• Occasionally required to balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and lift or move up to 100 pounds.
• Visual requirements include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Work involves long periods of sitting while operating equipment, along with periods of physical labor.

Additional Requirements

• Must possess or be able to obtain a valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
• Must pass a pre-employment drug screening and background investigation.

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	Heavy Equipment and Diesel Mechanic
DEPARTMENT	Facilities Maintenance
CLASSIFICATION	Manual Technical Employee – MT5
WAGE/SALARY	$27.67 per hour ($57,553.60 annually)
CLOSING DATE

 

Job Summary

The Heavy Equipment and Diesel Mechanic is responsible for the inspection, maintenance, repair, and overhaul of diesel-powered heavy equipment and vehicles, including excavators, bulldozers, frontend loaders, backhoes, motor graders, skid steers, dump trucks, and related machinery. This position requires advanced knowledge of diesel systems, strong diagnostic abilities, and the capability to perform field repairs in demanding environments. The employee must exhibit attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and effective communication abilities to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the Port's fleet and heavy equipment.  

Job Responsibilities

• Inspect, diagnose, and troubleshoot diesel engines, heavy equipment, and vehicles using diagnostic tools and software.
• Conduct preventive maintenance, including oil changes, fluid checks, wheel balancing, alignments, and brake inspections.
• Repair or replace transmissions, engines, suspensions, steering systems, braking systems, exhaust systems, electrical systems, hydraulics, attachments, and other related components.
• Respond to emergency breakdowns and perform field repairs as necessary.
• Maintain accurate service and maintenance records for all equipment.
• Prepare work plans and determine necessary repair actions based on inspections and diagnostics.
• Keep tools and work areas clean, organized, and safe.
• Stay current on industry practices, tools, and technologies through training and educational opportunities.
• Follow all established safety policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Facilities Maintenance.

 

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Completion of a vocational or technical training program in diesel engine repair or heavy equipment maintenance.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience as a diesel mechanic with hands-on experience in construction and heavy equipment maintenance.
• Proficient in diesel engine diagnostics, preventive maintenance, and repair.
• Strong knowledge of drive trains, hydraulic systems, and electrical systems.
• Proficient in using diagnostic software and maintenance tools.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, schematics, and wiring diagrams.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish).
• Must follow all safety rules and procedures.

 

Preferred Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in heavy equipment mechanics, diesel technology, or related field.
• ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) Diesel Certification or equivalent.
• Additional certifications in hydraulics, welding, or heavy equipment maintenance.

 

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.

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, stooping, kneeling, and lifting up to 75 pounds.
• Exposure to outdoor environments, including dust, fumes, noise, extreme temperatures, and heavy equipment operations for up to 8 hours per day.
• Must be able to work in confined spaces, elevated areas, and on uneven surfaces.
• May require occasional overtime, weekend, or after-hours work.

 

Additional Requirements

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

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.

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	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.