Customer Service Agent

Associate, OperationsFull-time, ExemptCompany: Host Agency, LLCLocation: Houston, TexasReports To: Operations ManagerDating back to a century ago in 1923, T. Parker Host quickly developed a strong reputation for offering exceptional service and solutions as a ship agency. HOST is the largest dry bulk agent in the United States and handles nearly 4,000 vessels annually, including dry bulk, breakbulk, tankers and cruise ships. As agents, we represent principals from around the world and coordinate directly with both local and international parties for every ship we're appointed – improving efficiency for our customers. Host Agency continues to develop a strong worldwide network of relationships throughout the maritime community.In addition to immediately serving our customers' vessels, we offer a range of services to add value and support throughout the supply chain – from forwarding and documentation, to commodity reporting, to cargo monitoring.Position Summary:Entry-level position and springboard to embark on a career in the maritime field. Liaise with pilots, tug boats, linemen, US Customs and Border Protection, US Coast Guard, cargo interests and vessel owners to ensure safe and efficient vessel operations while in port. Excellent opportunity for those looking to spend time in the field, as well as time in the office, handling communications and port expenses. Must be comfortable with a flexible schedule, working nights and weekends as needed based on vessels' schedules.Essential Responsibilities and Duties:Operations ManagementBoarding of vessels at marine facilities and mid-stream locationsCoordinate berthing assignments and order pilots, tugs, and linesmen for vesselsCoordinate and order vessel husbandry services within authorized funding limitsProvide timely and accurate responses to incoming email requests for assigned ships and general office traffic when requiredDraft, execute, and dispatch commercial documentation with timeliness and accuracyBe contactable at all times while on call and maintain readiness to respond to vessel requirements and changes of boarding schedules after office hoursFollow Company Standard Operating Procedures and seek guidance when modifications for specific calls or other questions ariseTravel to and provide operations support to other ports when required by the Host management teamAssist in the training and onboarding of new team members as requiredRegulatoryCoordinate with U.S. Government Agencies to prepare and submit required documents, verify successful filings of reporting notices, and schedule necessary vessel attendances within required time framesVerify successful filing of cargo import, entry, and export manifests within required time framesServiceMaintain professional acumen and a customer service mindset when dealing with Host customer, stakeholder and industry relationshipsEducation, Knowledge, Experience, Skills and Abilities Required:Prior customer service experience, required. Prior agency experience, a plus.Transitioning military personnel and veterans encouraged to apply.Must have valid driver's license with clean driving record.Strong interpersonal skills including excellent verbal and written communication skillsSelf-motivated and able to multi-task in a constantly changing work environmentAnalytical and problem-solving skillsAbility to manage high volumes of electronic communication, both in office and while mobile in the fieldAbility to work evenings, weekends, holidays and adapt to fluid ship port schedules in 24/7/365 port operationsASBA agency certified or willing to become within first three months of employmentPhysical Requirements:Ability to board vessels via gangway and/or pilot ladder alongside berth and over open waterClimbing, ascending, descending ladders, stairs, ramps using feet and legs and/or hands and armsMust be able to lift and carry 50 lbsSubject to inside and outside environmental conditions (cold, heat, wind, rain, snow)The duties and responsibilities described above are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with this position. The employee may be required to perform additional duties as assigned based on business needs.HOST, and its affiliated companies, is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.