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: 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.

TITLE: Security Guard

DEPARTMENT: Security/Police Department

CLASSIFICATION: Manual Technical Employee – MT1 WAGE/SALARY: $15.00/ 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.