Careers

TITLE: Cargo Facilities Inspector

DEPARTMENT: Harbormaster's Office

CLASSIFICATION: Clerical Technical Employees - CT1

WAGE/SALARY:  $17.93/ hour

CLOSING DATE:

Job Summary

This position is responsible for monitoring, inspecting, and ensuring compliance with regulations governing BND facilities. Duties include overseeing docks, wharves, storage and lease areas to enforce tariff rules, CFR 33 compliance, and environmental and safety guidelines. The Cargo Facilities Inspector will maintain accurate cargo inventories, compile data for statistical reporting, and input information into a computerized system. This role involves significant interaction with external stakeholders, including pilots, steamship agents, stevedores, and government officials. The position operates on a 24-hour schedule, with day and night shifts, including weekends and holidays.

Job Responsibilities

• Conduct inspections of docks, warehouses, and public facilities before and after vessel docking and stevedoring operations.
• Enforce leasing regulations, CFR 33 compliance, and environmental and safety guidelines.
• Identify and report unsafe conditions at BND facilities.
• Identify and document areas requiring maintenance or repair; generate work orders for repairs
• Sign oil dock cranes in and out for terminal use.
• Communicate via marine radios with pilots and line handlers to assist in vessel mooring.
• Maintain and verify cargo inventories at port facilities.
• Coordinate with stevedores to ensure safe and efficient use of docks and storage areas.
• Perform clerical duties as needed, including answering phone calls and maintaining reports.
• Exercise sound judgment in decision-making within established policies and procedures.
• Collect, organize, and process operational data with accuracy.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and other relevant computer programs.
• Ability to maintain accurate records, reports, and logs.
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong interpersonal skills to maintain effective working relationships with colleagues and the public.
• Clerical experience or any equivalent combination of training and experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual (English / Spanish).

Work Conditions & Physical Demands

• Frequent exposure to outdoor conditions, including extreme temperatures, dust, and vehicle exhaust.
• Medium physical effort, including standing for extended periods (up to 8 hours) and occasional lifting (up to 25 lbs.).
• Prolonged periods of standing, walking, and sitting.
• Frequent interaction with the public.
• Work involves rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Emergency situations may require extended or flexible work hours, including overtime or double shifts.

Additional Requirements

• Valid Texas Motor Vehicle Operator’s License.
• Must possess, or be able to obtain, a valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
• Successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen 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.

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: Dispatcher

DEPARTMENT: Harbormaster's Office

CLASSIFICATION: Clerical Technical Employee – CT2

WAGE/SALARY: $18.90/ hour

CLOSING DATE:

Job Summary

This position plays an essential role in coordinating and facilitating port operations within the Harbormaster’s Office. This position is responsible for managing emergency and routine communications for the Port of Brownsville’s harbor and police operations. This role requires real-time monitoring of radio, telephone, and security systems to ensure the safety and security of port personnel, visitors, and operations. This position serves as the primary point of contact for incoming emergency and non-emergency calls from the public, steamship agents, stevedores, government agencies, and BND personnel. This position requires excellent communication, situational awareness, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask. The position operates on a 24-hour schedule, with day and night shifts, including weekends and holidays.

Job Responsibilities

• Receive and prioritize emergency and non-emergency calls from the public, port personnel, and external agencies, ensuring a prompt and appropriate response.
• Monitor and maintain continuous radio, telephone, and security system communications.
• Process berthing reports, spotting orders, and cargo information received by the Harbormaster’s Office.
• Maintain the Harbormaster operations and security log, as well as vessel traffic and logistics boards.
• Utilize security systems to monitor and oversee port and waterway operations.
• Coordinate scheduling and communication between marine pilots, tugboat operators, and vessels arriving or departing the port.
• Relay critical weather updates and navigational advisories to vessels and port personnel.
• Monitor and verify personnel and vehicle access to secure areas in accordance with port security protocols.
• Act as a central communication hub during emergencies, ensuring that relevant personnel and agencies are notified promptly.
• Document and report security incidents, vessel delays, or operational disruptions as required.
• Input and retrieve data efficiently using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and other port-specific software.
• Prioritize and multitask in a dynamic, fast-paced work environment.
• Exercise sound judgment in decision-making within established policies and procedures.
• Collect, organize, and process operational data with accuracy.

Minimum Qualifications

• Three to five years of relevant experience in operations, dispatch, logistics, or administrative support, or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively with colleagues and external partners in a professional manner.

Preferred Qualifications

• Telecommunicators License
• Training in emergency communications, law enforcement procedures, or maritime security operations.
• Bilingual (English / Spanish).

Work Conditions & Physical Demands

• Work is performed in a 24/7 operations department, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Prolonged periods of computer use and seated work (up to 8 hours per shift).
• In emergency situations, work may require flexibility for extra hours including overtime or double shifts.

Additional Requirements

• Valid Texas Motor Vehicle Operator’s License.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen
• Must possess, or be able to obtain, a valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
• Successful completion of a pre-employment physical, drug screening, background check, and psychological evaluation
• Must have or be able to obtain a Telecommunication License issued by Texas Commission On Law Enforcement (TCOLE) within the first year of employment.

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: General Labor

DEPARTMENT: Facilities Maintenance

CLASSIFICATION: Manual Technical Employee – MT1

WAGE/SALARY: $15.00/hour

Job Summary

This position is responsible for performing a variety of unskilled and semi-skilled manual labor tasks to support the maintenance, cleanliness, and general upkeep of grounds, facilities, and public areas within the port. This role involves physically demanding work, including landscaping, minor construction, debris removal, and cleaning. Employees in this position will work under direct supervision, receiving detailed assignments that must be completed efficiently and safely. As employees gain experience, they may be assigned more complex responsibilities. General Laborers must follow safety procedures, operate basic tools and equipment and be able to work effectively as part of a team. Work is performed in various weather conditions and may require lifting, standing, and bending for extended periods.

Job Responsibilities

• Perform routine cleaning and maintenance of grounds
• Operate power, push-type, or small tractor mowers to cut grass.
• Trim and prune shrubbery, small trees, hoe and cut weeds.
• Rake leaves, edge curbs, spray ditches for weed control.
• Clean and maintain gardening equipment.
• Load and dispose of trash, debris, and trimmings.
• Perform cleaning and maintenance of buildings, walkways, and district vehicles.
• Assist in the setup, breakdown, and cleanup of events or work areas as needed.
• Operate basic hand tools and light equipment such as shovels, rakes, and brooms.
• Assist with basic repair and maintenance of outdoor structures, fences, and signage.
• Perform basic road maintenance, including filling potholes or clearing debris.
• Follow safety protocols and wear required protective gear.
• Perform other duties as assigned with appropriate instruction.

Minimum Qualifications

• Entry level position: no prior experience required.
• Ability to perform basic labor, repair, and construction work
• Ability to use the tools utilized in maintenance and construction.
• Basic knowledge of safety practices related to manual labor, including proper lifting techniques and use of personal protective equipment.
• Basic understanding of safety precautions when working around mechanized equipment.
• Ability to perform and endure physically demanding tasks in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers and the public.

Preferred Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish)
• Previous experience in a related field.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.

Work Conditions & Physical Demands

• Frequent exposure to outdoor weather conditions, including heat, cold, dust, and vehicle exhaust.
• Moderate physical effort, including prolonged standing (up to 8 continuous hours) snd occasional lifting of objects up to 50 lbs
• Extended periods of standing, walking, digging, reaching, and/or sitting.
• Regular interaction 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 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: Police Officer

DEPARTMENT: Security/Police Department

CLASSIFICATION: Manual Technical Employee – MT3

WAGE/SALARY: $21.67/hour

Job Summary

The Police Officer position performs routine and skilled law enforcement and security duties to ensure the protection of life and property within the jurisdiction of the Brownsville Navigation District. This position enforces laws, assists security personnel, responds to emergencies, and coordinates with various law enforcement agencies. The role requires operating a district vehicle and other specialized equipment as needed. The position operates on a 24-hour schedule, with rotating day and night shifts, including weekends and holidays and is subject to call-outs and working extra hours.

Job Responsibilities

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

• Enforces all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including but not limited to the Texas Penal Code, Code of Criminal Procedure, and Port Ordinances/Tariffs.
• Conducts routine and targeted patrols of District property by vehicle, boat, or foot to prevent and detect criminal activity.
• Responds promptly to crimes in progress, dispatched calls, and emergencies; detains, arrests, and processes individuals as required.
• Investigates crimes and incidents, gathers evidence, interviews witnesses, prepares reports, and testifies in court when necessary.
• Provides assistance and guidance to Port security personnel on access control and security operations.
• Coordinates and collaborates with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies as needed.
• Conducts security inspections, including vehicle and vessel searches, sometimes in conjunction with federal authorities.
• Ensures safe and responsible operation of department vehicles, equipment, and firearms.
• Engages in community-oriented policing to foster positive relationships with the public, tenants, vendors, and employees.
• Maintains a high level of professionalism, ethical standards, and adherence to department policies both on and off duty.
• Functions as an essential employee in pre- and post-disaster preparedness and response efforts.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent.
• Current and valid Texas Class C driver’s license at the time of appointment and maintained thereafter.
• Certification as a Texas Peace Officer by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE).
• Working knowledge of the Texas Penal Code and Code of Criminal Procedure.
• Proficiency in English (oral and written); computer literacy and ability to prepare clear, concise reports.
• Strong interpersonal skills, reliability, sound judgment, and ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Proficient use of firearms
• Demonstrated integrity and ethical conduct must have an exemplary driving record.
• If previously employed in law enforcement, must have separated under honorable conditions.

Additional Requirements

• Must pass a comprehensive background investigation, including the submission of:
• Personal History Statement
• TCOLE training records
• High school diploma and/or college transcripts
• DD214 (if applicable)
• Must pass a pre-employment drug screen, medical and psychological examination as required by TCOLE.
• Must meet federal Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) eligibility requirements for unescorted access to Port facilities per 33CFR101.514.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual (English / Spanish).
• Associate or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field from an accredited institution.
• Knowledge of TCOLE rules and regulations
• Prior experience as a full-time police officer or comparable law enforcement experience

 

Work Conditions & Physical Demands

• Frequent exposure to outdoor conditions, including extreme temperatures, dust, and vehicle exhaust.
• Requires extended periods of standing (up to 3 continuous hours), walking, and occasional lifting of objects up to 25 lbs.
• Must be able to remain alert and responsive during long shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Regular interaction with the public, employees, and law enforcement personnel in potentially stressful situations.
• Work involves rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Emergency situations may require extended or flexible work hours, including overtime or double shifts.

This job description outlines the general duties and qualifications required for the position of Police Officer. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list and may be subject to modification as necessary to meet the needs of the district.

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.