Careers

TITLE	Administrative Assistant
DEPARTMENT	Office Services
CLASSIFICATION	CT-2
WAGE/SALARY	$16.20 / hour
CLOSING DATE

 

Job Summary
This position provides comprehensive administrative support to the Deputy Port Director. This role requires a detail-oriented professional with strong organizational, communication, and technical skills. The Administrative Assistant is responsible for coordinating schedules, preparing reports, maintaining records, assisting with budget processes, and supporting Port operations and serving as a liaison between departments, clients, and stakeholders. Professionalism, discretion, and the ability to interact effectively with business partners, employees, and the public are essential.

Job Responsibilities

• Manage calendars, appointments, correspondence, reports, and departmental documentation.
• Support the Deputy Port Director with administrative tasks and special projects.
• Coordinate executive meetings, conferences, events, and travel including scheduling, logistics, and material preparation.
• Maintain accurate departmental records, files, contracts, and budget documents.
• Assist with preparation of agendas, presentations, business proposals, and marketing materials.
• Maintain confidentiality and proper handling of sensitive contracts and financial information.
• Handle incoming calls, emails, and inquiries with professionalism, ensuring timely responses.
• Support coordination with internal departments, external clients, and industry stakeholders.
• Assist with coordination of department related and community events.
• Perform other duties assigned to support the overall effectiveness of the department.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Two to three years of clerical and/or administration experience.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Proficiency in office practices, business English, spelling and commercial arithmetic
• Sound judgment and decision-making skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and contribute to team projects.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in business administration or related field.
• Familiarity with executive business practices.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish).

Work Conditions & Physical Demands

• Frequent use of a computer for extended periods.
• Light physical activity, including bending, stooping, and lifting objects up to 25 pounds.
• Prolonged periods of sitting and computer use.
• Occasional standing or walking in outdoor environments.
• Potential exposure to dusty areas and heavy equipment operations.
• Occasional driving in areas where heavy equipment is in use.
• May require extended work hours outside of normal schedule.

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 this job title and the above functions may not include all related duties that might be performed.

TITLE	Cargo Facilities Inspector II
DEPARTMENT	Harbormaster Office
LOCATION	Clerical Technical Employee – CT3
WAGE/SALARY	$18.90/hr.
CLOSING DATE

Job Summary
This employee will be responsible for assessing the conditions of the waterfront facilities before and after docking and stevedoring operations have occurred. In addition, this employee will also observe conditions of the fishing vessels and docks at the Fishing Harbor. Duties include inspection and oversight of docks, wharves, storage and lease areas for rule enforcement and compliance and issuance of maintenance work orders. This position requires that the employee gather information from various sources and enter it into a computerized system. This employee has extensive contact with the public to include steamship agents, stevedores, officers of governmental agencies, and other BND employees. There is a high degree of mental and visual attention necessary in the performance of this job. Shifts are scheduled on a 24-hour basis. Day and night shifts are a possibility.

Job Responsibilities

• Assess and report all conditions on docks and warehouses before and after docking and stevedoring operations.
• Enforce leasing regulations.
• Observe and report any unsafe conditions at the Fishing Harbor.
• Processes berthing reports spotting orders and cargo information received by the Harbormaster’s Office.
• Maintains continuous radio monitoring of ship-to-shore and BND’s internal communications.
• Maintains telephone communications.
• Maintains the Harbormaster operations and security log.
• Maintains vessel traffic, logistics board.
• Utilizes security system to observe port and waterway operations.
• Responsible for receiving security service calls and dispatching Port police for security services.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED Equivalent
• Must be able to write and maintain files on any conditions that were observed.
• Excellent and effective oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to read and write legibly in English.
• Ability to proficiently use Microsoft Office Word, Excel, and Outlook as well as various computer programs.
• Ability to exercise good judgment in the making of minor decisions in accordance with rules, policies, and procedures.
• Ability to maintain and write incident reports and logs of information.
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with other employees and the general public.
• Ability to work well with minimal supervision.
• Ability to deal courteously with the public and with employees.
• Ability to type a minimum of 60 words per minute.
• Clerical experience or/and any equivalent combination of acceptable training and experience.

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 25 lbs.
• Withstand prolonged periods of standing, walking, and/or sitting.
• Frequent contact with the public. Work involves shift work in an office that is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including holidays.
• Work involves nearly continuous use of a computer.
• In emergency situations, work may require the ability to maintain flexible schedules, including overtime or double shifts.

Additional Requirements

• Additional Requirements (Some requirements in accordance with House Bill 1851)
• Must be a US Citizen in accordance to House bill 1851
• 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.
• Selected candidate must pass a pre-employment drug screening and background investigation and pass a psych evaluation/test 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. Must be able to acquire and maintain a TCOLE Telecommunicators License.    

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	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.