Cargo Planning Engineer

SAL Intermarine is the Americas liner service of SAL, providing dependable, geared multipurpose vessel rotations across North, East, and West Coast South America, the US Gulf, and the Caribbean. The company specializes in moving breakbulk, project, and parcel cargo on schedule while offering flexible inducements when project plans change. From its base in Houston, commercial and operations teams coordinate sailings, documentation, and on-quay execution with a network of local agents and port captains.

SAL Intermarine deploys vessels matched to port and cargo requirements, ensuring efficient load and discharge operations even at gear-limited or draft-restricted ports. Applicants can expect clear schedules, responsive communication, 24/7 operations, and a strong focus on QHSE standards.

• Prepare and review vessel stowage plans to ensure cargo is appropriately positioned and vessel capacity is efficiently utilized.
• Support fleet planning activities to optimize vessel assignments and operational efficiency.
• Coordinate closely with Chartering teams to evaluate cargo requirements, vessel availability, and operational considerations.
• Maintain regular communication and information exchange with Vessel Masters to support voyage planning and cargo operations.
• Evaluate vessel specifications and capabilities against cargo requirements to confirm vessel suitability.
• Review cargo documentation, vessel particulars, and related technical documents for accuracy and completeness.
• Develop and review stowage, lifting, and lashing plans as required.
• Utilize AutoCAD and other technical tools to support vessel and cargo planning activities.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Knowledge of multipurpose (MPP) vessels; familiarity with the SAL Intermarine fleet is strongly preferred.
• Experience with stowage, lifting, and lashing planning.
• Working knowledge of AutoCAD.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams, Vessel Masters, and other stakeholders.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Naval Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, Structural Engineering, or a related field; equivalent qualifications will be considered.
• Two to three years of relevant professional experience and/or training, preferably within the maritime, heavy-lift, or project cargo industry.
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may also be considered.

We are looking for a proactive engineering professional who combines technical knowledge with practical problem-solving abilities. The successful candidate will be comfortable working in a dynamic, project-driven environment and contributing to the successful planning and execution of complex cargo operations.