Job Description
Position Summary The Director of Security – Port Operations is responsible for the strategic planning, implementation, and management of all security operations across port facilities, terminals, and maritime interfaces. This role ensures compliance with national and international maritime security regulations, protects port assets and personnel, and maintains the safe, secure, and uninterrupted flow of cargo and vessels.
The Director serves as the Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO) or oversees designated PFSOs, leading risk management, emergency preparedness, and coordination with government agencies and private stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership & Governance - Develop, implement, and continuously improve the Port Security Program and Security Master Plans
- Establish security policies, procedures, and standards aligned with port operations and business objectives
- Advise executive leadership on security risks, trends, and mitigation strategies
Regulatory Compliance - Ensure compliance with ISPS Code, MTSA, TSA, Coast Guard, customs, and other applicable maritime security regulations
- Serve as or supervise the Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO)
- Manage audits, inspections, and regulatory reviews by authorities
Operations & Risk Management - Oversee 24/7 security operations across terminals, gates, waterfronts, and restricted areas
- Conduct security risk assessments, vulnerability analyses, and threat evaluations
- Implement access control, perimeter protection, CCTV, intrusion detection, and cybersecurity coordination
Emergency Management & Incident Response - Lead port security incident response, investigations, and after-action reviews
- Coordinate emergency preparedness, drills, and exercises (security, terrorism, natural disasters, and critical incidents)
- Act as a key member of the Port Emergency Management Team
Stakeholder & Agency Coordination - Serve as the primary liaison with law enforcement, coast guard, customs, intelligence agencies, and emergency services
- Coordinate security activities with terminal operators, shipping lines, tenants, and contractors
- Participate in maritime security committees and working groups
Personnel & Budget Management - Lead, train, and evaluate security management and contracted security personnel
- Develop and manage the security department budget and capital investments
- Oversee contracts for security services, systems, and technology vendors
Technology & Innovation - Oversee implementation and lifecycle management of security technologies
- Evaluate emerging threats and technologies to enhance port security resilience
- Ensure integration of physical security systems with operational and IT systems
Qualifications Education - Bachelor’s degree in Security Management, Criminal Justice, Maritime Studies, Public Administration, or related field
- Master’s degree preferred
Experience - 10+ years of progressive experience in security management, maritime security, or critical infrastructure protection
- Minimum 5 years in a senior leadership or director-level role
- Experience in port, terminal, logistics, transportation, or large industrial environments
Certifications (Preferred)- Certified Protection Professional (CPP)
- Physical Security Professional (PSP)
- Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO) certification
- FEMA / emergency management training
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities - In-depth knowledge of maritime security regulations and port operations
- Strong leadership, decision-making, and crisis management skills
- Excellent communication and stakeholder coordination abilities
- Proven ability to manage complex security programs and large teams
- Strong analytical, investigative, and problem-solving skills
Working Conditions - On-call availability for emergencies and critical incidents
- Work conducted in office, port, terminal, and industrial environments
- Ability to obtain and maintain required security clearances
Job Tags
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