- +44 (0)203 098 9979
- info@orbitalpeople.co.uk
Port Terminal Automation
& Smart Logistics Recruitment
Connecting the People Powering the Future of Global Trade
We specialise in recruiting senior executives, managers, and technology professionals driving the transformation of global ports and terminal operations.
From traditional container handling to fully automated, data-driven smart ports, we partner with organisations across the world to deliver the talent powering the next generation of maritime logistics.
We support freelance, contract, and permanent hiring solutions across engineering, digital, operational, and leadership disciplines.








Our Focus: Port Terminal Automation & Digital Transformation
The global port industry is undergoing rapid evolution — driven by automation, electrification, artificial intelligence, and integrated logistics systems.
We work with organisations modernising:
- Container terminals
- Bulk and breakbulk facilities
- Ro-Ro and intermodal hubs
- ARTG, ARMG, ATT Cranes & STS Cranes
- OCR, TOS & Gate Operation
- loT & AI and Port Digitilation
Our recruitment expertise spans both brownfield transformation projects and new-build smart port developments.
Executive & Leadership Appointments
We support the strategic layer of port transformation by placing senior leaders who shape operational excellence and long-term vision.
Typical appointments include:
- Chief Operations Officers (Ports & Terminals)
- Terminal Directors / General Managers
- Heads of Automation & Digital Transformation
- Programme & Portfolio Directors
- Engineering Directors
- Commercial & Strategy Leaders
These individuals lead complex transformation programmes and ensure alignment between operations, technology, and global trade demands.
Automation, Engineering & Control Systems Talent
We recruit the specialists responsible for designing, building, and maintaining automated terminal environments.
Key disciplines include:
- Automation & Control Systems Engineers (PLC / SCADA / TOS integration)
- Robotics & Remote Operations Engineers
- Crane & Heavy Equipment Engineers
- Electrical & Mechanical Engineers
- Maintenance & Reliability Engineers
- Mechatronics Specialists
These professionals ensure safe, efficient, and continuous port operations.
Modern ports are becoming fully connected digital ecosystems. We source the talent enabling intelligent decision-making and real-time optimisation.
We recruit:
- Software Engineers (logistics / industrial systems)
- Solution & Enterprise Architects
- Data Engineers & Data Scientists
- AI / Machine Learning Engineers
- Cybersecurity Specialists (critical infrastructure)
- DevOps & Cloud Infrastructure Engineers
From predictive maintenance to end-to-end cargo visibility, we connect the teams building the digital backbone of modern terminals.
We support the evolution toward autonomous and semi-autonomous port environments.
We place experts in:
- AI-driven yard optimisation
- Container flow modelling & simulation
- Digital twin development
- Computer vision (container tracking, safety systems)
- Capacity planning & forecasting analytics
These capabilities are redefining how ports manage throughput, congestion, and efficiency.
Behind every automated terminal is a major physical infrastructure upgrade. We recruit the engineering talent delivering these complex environments.
Including:
- Civil & Marine Engineers
- Port Infrastructure Project Managers
- Structural Engineers (heavy load environments)
- Dredging & quay development specialists
- Construction & commissioning teams
We support large-scale capital programmes and operational transformation initiatives across global ports.
We recruit:
- Programme Directors (Port Automation / Transformation)
- Project & PMO Managers
- Systems Integration Managers
- Change & Transformation Specialists
- Commissioning & Go-Live Managers
These professionals ensure seamless execution from design through to operational readiness.
Safety and regulatory compliance are critical in all maritime environments. We help organisations maintain the highest operational standards.
We place:
- HSE Managers (Health, Safety & Environment)
- Maritime Compliance Officers
- Operational Risk Specialists
- Security & ISPS Compliance Professionals
- Safety Engineers
We also support the commercial and customer-facing side of port operations.
Including:
- Commercial & Business Development Managers
- Supply Chain Analysts
- Customer Operations Managers
- Freight & Logistics Coordinators
- Contract & Pricing Specialists
We combine deep industry understanding with a global talent network across port operations, automation, engineering, and advanced technology.
Our approach is:
- Industry-specialist, not generalist recruitment
- Global reach across Europe, Middle East, Asia, and the Americas
- Executive search and technical talent acquisition
- Freelance, contract, and permanent hiring solutions
Building the Future of Smart Ports
Port terminal automation is redefining global trade — faster, safer, cleaner, and more intelligent than ever before.
We exist to connect the people making that transformation possible.
Our Expertise
Information Techology
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Automation & Robotics
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