Port and Harbor Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of global trade and commerce, the need for Port and Harbor Engineers is more critical than ever.

As the world’s economies evolve and expand, so does the demand for highly skilled professionals capable of designing, implementing and maintaining our maritime infrastructure.

But what exactly is expected from a Port and Harbor Engineer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the scope of this role,
• A hiring manager seeking to define the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the complexities of port and harbor engineering,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a tailored Port and Harbor Engineer job description template, built for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Port and Harbor Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

Port and Harbor Engineers are involved in the design, construction, and maintenance of ports, harbors, and other marine structures.

They have to apply the principles of civil and coastal engineering to ensure that the ports and harbors are safe, efficient, and environmentally sustainable.

The duties and responsibilities of a Port and Harbor Engineer include:

• Developing and implementing port and harbor design projects
• Carrying out feasibility studies for proposed port and harbor projects
• Designing and overseeing the construction of marine structures such as breakwaters, seawalls, jetties, and docks
• Ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and standards
• Carrying out inspections of existing port and harbor structures and identifying any necessary repairs or upgrades
• Working with various stakeholders, including government agencies, contractors, and the local community, to ensure that projects meet their needs and expectations
• Preparing technical reports and documentation for port and harbor projects
• Implementing and overseeing maintenance programs for port and harbor structures
• Using computer software to create models and simulations of port and harbor projects
• Monitoring and responding to any issues that may affect port and harbor safety or efficiency

 

Port and Harbor Engineer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a skilled Port and Harbor Engineer to join our team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for planning, designing, and managing construction projects in ports and harbors.

The Port and Harbor Engineer will have the ability to evaluate environmental factors that may impact maritime structures, and design plans in compliance with regulatory standards and requirements.

The role requires a deep understanding of marine environments and a strong background in civil engineering.

 

Responsibilities

• Plan, design, and oversee construction and maintenance of maritime structures such as piers, harbors, canals, and more
• Conduct site surveys and inspections to assess environmental impacts, soil conditions, and hydrodynamic processes
• Develop design plans and specifications using computer-aided design (CAD) software
• Ensure that projects comply with legal requirements and safety standards
• Coordinate with project stakeholders, including clients, contractors, and regulatory bodies
• Prepare cost estimates and project schedules
• Assess potential risks and propose mitigation strategies
• Review and approve project designs and proposals

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Port and Harbor Engineer or similar role
• Deep understanding of maritime environments and civil engineering principles
• Proficiency in CAD software
• Excellent project management and leadership skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• BSc degree in Civil Engineering, Marine Engineering or relevant field
• Professional Engineer (PE) license is preferred

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Port and Harbor Engineer
• Work Environment: Office and field setting with frequent travel to project sites.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Engineering.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $85,000 minimum to $135,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Port and Harbor Engineer Do?

Port and Harbor Engineers primarily work for government agencies, engineering firms, or construction companies.

They may also work as independent consultants.

They are typically involved in the design, construction, and maintenance of harbors, marinas, ports, and other coastal structures.

They also develop and implement plans to prevent or manage erosion, flooding, and other coastal or marine hazards.

Their job includes conducting detailed assessments of potential sites for harbor or port construction and determining the feasibility of these sites based on a variety of factors, such as water depth, soil conditions, and environmental impact.

Port and Harbor Engineers collaborate with a variety of professionals, including urban planners, marine biologists, and construction workers, to ensure that the ports and harbors they design are functional, safe, and environmentally friendly.

They also inspect existing port and harbor facilities to identify and address issues such as damage from storms or normal wear and tear.

Furthermore, they are responsible for creating and reviewing project proposals, plans, and costs, and for ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget.

They must adhere to local, state, and federal regulations and often participate in public meetings to discuss project proposals and address any concerns from the community.

 

Port and Harbor Engineer Qualifications and Skills

Port and Harbor Engineers utilize a combination of technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and industry-specific expertise to design, construct, and maintain ports, harbors, and other maritime structures.

Essential skills and qualifications include:

• Advanced understanding and knowledge of coastal engineering, including tidal analysis, wave dynamics, sediment transport, and coastal structures.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to design and assess the feasibility and sustainability of maritime structures and solutions.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively collaborate with various stakeholders, including clients, contractors, regulatory bodies, and team members.
• Strong project management skills to oversee the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of port and harbor infrastructure.
• Adept at using specialized software and technology for modeling, design, and analysis related to coastal and marine engineering.
• Problem-solving skills to address and resolve challenges that arise in the design, construction, and maintenance of maritime structures.
• Knowledge of environmental regulations and safety standards in the maritime industry to ensure compliant and sustainable engineering solutions.
• Ability to work in diverse conditions, including working on-site and in maritime environments.

 

Port and Harbor Engineer Experience Requirements

Entry-level Port and Harbor Engineers may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often obtained through an internship or graduate scheme within a maritime or civil engineering organization.

These professionals may also gain vital on-the-job experience in roles such as Civil Engineer, Maritime Consultant, or Structural Engineer.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often enhance their technical skills and knowledge in entry-level Port and Harbor Engineer roles.

Here, they gain hands-on experience in planning, designing, and managing projects for ports, harbors, and marine terminals.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have demonstrated project management or leadership experience in their background.

They may have also shown proficiency in areas such as hydrological modeling, wave theory, coastal processes, or maritime law.

These engineers are typically ready for roles that entail supervisory duties or leadership of a project team.

Some positions may require their Port and Harbor Engineer hires to have advanced experience in specific areas such as coastal engineering, port expansion, or renovation projects.

Also, some roles may require knowledge of and experience with sustainability and environmental impact assessments in maritime settings.

In addition to these, a Port and Harbor Engineer is expected to have a thorough understanding of engineering principles and practices, as well as excellent communication skills to interact effectively with clients, contractors, and other stakeholders.

 

Port and Harbor Engineer Education and Training Requirements

Port and Harbor Engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in Civil, Structural or Ocean Engineering.

They need a strong background in marine engineering concepts, knowledge of sea conditions, and understanding of coastal processes and construction materials.

Often, these engineers require a Professional Engineer (PE) license for career advancement and to sign off on project designs.

A master’s degree in Coastal or Ocean Engineering is often preferred for higher-level or specialized positions.

This advanced degree provides engineers with a deeper understanding of complex marine structures, wave dynamics, and sediment transport.

Certification from recognized maritime institutions, such as The Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA), can further enhance a candidate’s credibility and career prospects.

Continued professional development through workshops and seminars is also encouraged to keep up with the latest advancements in maritime construction technology and marine environmental regulations.

 

Port and Harbor Engineer Salary Expectations

A Port and Harbor Engineer can expect to earn an average salary of $79,340 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may fluctuate based on factors such as experience, educational background, location of the port or harbor, and the size of the employing company.

 

Port and Harbor Engineer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Port and Harbor Engineer need?

Port and Harbor Engineers need a solid foundation in civil engineering principles, with a special focus on coastal and ocean engineering.

They should also possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as they will frequently need to assess and resolve structural and environmental issues.

Proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software is often required.

Good communication skills are also necessary to effectively work with team members and stakeholders.

 

Do Port and Harbor Engineers need a degree?

Yes, Port and Harbor Engineers typically require at least a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related field.

Some employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree or specialized training in coastal or ocean engineering.

Additionally, professional engineering (PE) licensure is often required for higher-level positions.

 

What should you look for in a Port and Harbor Engineer resume?

A Port and Harbor Engineer’s resume should highlight their education in civil, coastal, or ocean engineering, and any relevant certifications or licensures.

Look for experience in planning, designing, and overseeing construction of harbor and coastal structures.

Proficiency in CAD software and hydraulic modeling tools is a plus.

Any involvement in relevant projects, especially those demonstrating problem-solving skills, should be considered.

 

What qualities make a good Port and Harbor Engineer?

A good Port and Harbor Engineer is resourceful, with excellent problem-solving skills.

They should be capable of analyzing and interpreting complex technical data, and designing solutions to address challenges.

They need to be detail-oriented, with a strong focus on safety and sustainability.

Good communication and teamwork skills are also important, as they frequently need to collaborate with different stakeholders.

 

What are the daily duties of a Port and Harbor Engineer?

A Port and Harbor Engineer may spend their day assessing the condition of port and harbor structures, conducting feasibility studies for proposed projects, designing new structures using CAD software, and overseeing construction and maintenance work.

They also prepare project reports, ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations, and liaise with clients, contractors, and government agencies.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve revealed the inner workings of a Port and Harbor Engineer‘s role.

Surprise!

It’s not just about designing and managing port infrastructure.

It’s about shaping the backbone of global commerce, one harbor project at a time.

With our reliable Port and Harbor Engineer job description template and real-world examples, you’re equipped to steer your course.

But why stop there?

Navigate further with our job description generator. It’s your compass to creating meticulously detailed job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every harbor project contributes to the grander scheme of things.

Let’s shape the future of maritime industry. Together.