Experienced Vessel Planner
We are seeking an experienced Vessel Planner for a 12- month fixed- term opportunity who embraces a team first culture to join our Container Terminal Planning team and play a critical role in ensuring the safe, efficient and effective movement of containers through our terminal.
Reporting to the Operations Supervisor – Planning, and working at the heart of port operations, you will be responsible for developing and executing vessel stowage and discharge/load plans, coordinating landside and waterside activities, and ensuring operational teams have accurate and timely planning information to optimise productivity.
This is an opportunity to apply your technical planning expertise while contributing to the wider Napier Port as we undergo one of New Zealand's most significant port transformation programmes.
At Napier Port we are clear about our purpose: Together, we build a thriving region by connecting our customers, people and community to the world. We understand our role in the region and within the national supply chain network. We know that by supporting a thriving regional economy, and by actively growing regional outcomes, our community, our customers and our shareholder’s benefit.
ABOUT THE ROLE
Reporting to: Operations Supervisor – Planning
Hours: Rotating roster and flexibility to meet operational requirements
As Vessel Planner, you'll work closely with Shipping Lines, Operations, Logistics, Yard Planning and Stevedoring teams to ensure vessels are planned and executed efficiently, safely and in line with customer requirements.
You will play an important role in supporting planning excellence, operational performance and continuous improvement initiatives across the terminal.
ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES
· Develop and execute detailed vessel stowage, load and discharge plans to ensure safe, efficient and productive vessel operations.
· Maximise vessel productivity, turnaround performance and crane utilisation through effective operational planning.
· Coordinate labour, equipment and operational resources to support successful vessel execution.
· Monitor vessel operations in real time, adjusting plans as operational conditions and priorities change.
· Maintain accurate planning information, load list reconciliation and terminal operating system data within Navis N4 and related systems.
· Collaborate closely with yard, depot, logistics and stevedoring teams to optimise container flows and terminal performance.
· Build and maintain strong working relationships with shipping lines, vessel crews, border agencies, contractors and key operational stakeholders.
· Support contractors, service providers and regulatory agencies requiring access to vessels and berth operations.
· Provide technical planning expertise and operational support during incidents, disruptions and escalations.
· Contribute to the ongoing development of planning procedures, operational standards and best-practice planning processes.
· Champion a Zero Harm workplace and positively contribute to a collaborative, high-performing Planning Team culture operating in a 24/7 environment.
· A willingness to spend time on board vessels to build operational understanding and strengthen planning effectiveness.
ABOUT YOU:
You will be an experienced planning professional with a strong understanding of container terminal operations and vessel planning principles, with;
· Proven experience in vessel planning within a container terminal environment
· A team-first mindset with a commitment to knowledge sharing, collaboration and supporting colleagues across all shifts.
· The ability to contribute positively to a 24/7 operational environment where communication and continuity are critical to success.
· Experience using Navis N4 or similar terminal operating systems
· Strong understanding of container terminal planning processes and operating procedures
· Knowledge of vessel stowage, load sequencing and container flows
· Excellent problem-solving and decision-making capability
· Strong communication and stakeholder management skills with the ability to work collaboratively
· Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced operational environment
· High attention to detail and a commitment to operational excellence
· Adaptability and a continuous improvement mindset
· A strong commitment to safety
The successful candidate will be a collaborative team player who can balance competing operational priorities while maintaining accuracy and delivering results.
THIS IS A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO:
· Be part of a significant operational transformation programme
· Influence future planning practices and ways of working
· Work with modern terminal operating systems and technologies
· Develop your expertise in a complex and fast-paced port environment
· Contribute to the success of New Zealand's leading regional gateway port
Applications close Monday, 10 August 2027- don't miss out!
Must have current eligibility to work in New Zealand
Applications for this role will take you to the advertisers site.
