Careers

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	Engineering Technician
DEPARTMENT	Engineering Services
CLASSIFICATION	PE 118
WAGE/SALARY	$48,880 annually (starting pay)
CLOSING DATE

 

Job Summary

This position performs skilled technical work supporting engineering projects, infrastructure documentation, and construction activities for the Engineering Services Department. The Engineering Technician supports the planning, construction, and maintenance of Port infrastructure by maintaining engineering documentation and infrastructure records associated with Port facilities

and utilities.

Work requires knowledge of engineering drafting practices, surveying principles, infrastructure systems, and construction methods related to civil infrastructure. Work is performed with a high degree of technical proficiency and independent judgment under the general supervision of the Director of Engineering Services.

Job Responsibilities

• Maintain and apply a strong working knowledge of Port specifications, conditions, and requirements to support and ensure compliance in Port projects.
• Conduct field inspections of Port infrastructure, including utilities, drainage systems, buildings, roadways, and marine facilities,
• Conduct field inspections of construction projects to ensure general compliance with approved plans and specifications, and schedules.
• Document field conditions and inspection observations as required by the project and report findings to engineering staff.
• Review engineering drawings, plans, and survey information to ensure consistency with observed field conditions and infrastructure records.
• Perform technical measurements and calculations necessary to support engineering documentation, mapping, and project verification.
• Prepare, revise, and maintain engineering drawings, plans, profiles, maps, and record drawings (as-built documentation)  that serve as official engineering documentation for Port infrastructure.
• Develop and update engineering drawings and working plans from verified field conditions, survey information, sketches, written descriptions, and engineering direction.
• Maintain organized files and archives of engineering drawings, maps, and project documentation.
• Provide engineering maps, drawings, and technical information to engineering staff, contractors, Port departments, and authorized external parties.
• Support engineering staff in the preparation of plans, specifications, cost estimates, and technical documentation associated with engineering projects.
• Perform related technical field and office duties as required in support of engineering operations.

 

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in engineering technology, Drafting, Surveying, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience in engineering drafting, infrastructure documentation, construction inspection, surveying support, or related technical engineering work.
• Knowledge of engineering drafting principles, practices, and techniques used in civil infrastructure and public works projects.
• Knowledge of mathematics through the level of trigonometry and the ability to perform engineering-related measurements and calculations.
• Knowledge of surveying principles and the ability to interpret field survey notes, plans, and engineering drawings.
• Knowledge of construction practices and the ability to identify discrepancies between engineering plans and field conditions.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, metes and bounds descriptions, and related technical documentation.
• Ability to maintain accurate engineering records, infrastructure maps, and technical project documentation.
• Skilled in the use of AutoCAD or similar computer-aided design software.
• Ability to organize technical information, maintain engineering documentation systems, and work independently with minimal supervision.

 

Preferred Qualifications

• Two to three years of experience in engineering drafting, infrastructure documentation, construction inspection, or related technical engineering work.
• Experience working in large-scale industrial facilities or public-sector infrastructure environments.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and related document and data management software.
• Experience with digital document management systems and engineering drawing archives.
• Bilingual (English / Spanish).

 

Work Conditions & Physical Demands

The work environment and physical demands described below are representative of those encountered while performing the essential functions of this position.

• Work is regularly performed in both office and active field environments within an industrial port setting, requiring routine presence at construction and infrastructure sites.
• Frequent exposure to outdoor weather conditions and industrial hazards, including construction activities and moving equipment.
• Medium physical effort, including prolonged periods of standing or walking, navigating uneven terrain, and occasional lifting, carrying, or handling of materials or equipment weighing up to fifty (50) pounds.
• Ability to bend, climb, sit for extended periods, and traverse uneven or active construction sites safely.
• Requires the routine use of personal protective equipment (PPE), which may include steel-toe footwear, high-visibility reflective vests, hearing protection, and safety glasses, depending on work location and task requirements.
• Frequent interaction with coworkers, supervisors, vendors, contractors, and members of 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 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	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	General Labor
DEPARTMENT	Facilities Maintenance
CLASSIFICATION	Manual Technical Employee – MT1
WAGE/SALARY	$ 15.00 per 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	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 this 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.