Ship Planner
Nature of the Work
You will coordinate vessel schedules and plan container positions within the container ship to maximize slot utilization and cost-effectiveness and minimize the vessel unloading time at the next port of discharge.

You will be required to:
• Assess suitability for loading or discharging of containerized cargo when the container vessel arrives at port
• Allocate quay cranes work shifts to load or unload a vessel, given the ship’s import and export list
• Study and judge dangerous cargo restrictions and safe segregation to assess if it is suitable to be discharged for storage in the container yard
• Communicate with the port operations executive to assign destinations in the container yard for the containers that have been unloaded

Typical employers include:
• Major shipping companies
• Shipbroking firms
• Ship agencies

Working Conditions
Working hours are usually normal office hours. You may be required to work outside office hours to network with clients or meet deadlines.     

Qualification, Training and Advancement
Required:
• A diploma or bachelor’s degree preferably in maritime studies, AND
• 2 – 3 years working experience in the maritime sector

A typical career progression track for good performers can be:
Central Planner -> Senior Planner -> Management positions

Personal characteristics & Core competencies
You should possess the following key traits:
• Analytical
• Good interpersonal and communication skills
• Able to work under stress and adhere to tight deadlines

Job availability
Ship planners are in demand due to the growth in trade and the consequent high demand for ships to transport the cargo.

Earnings
Starting pay for a Ship Planner (who should have 2 to 3 years of experience in the shipping sector) ranges from $3,000 to $4,500 with competitive bonuses depending on performance.