The Ethiopian Shipping and Logistics Services Enterprise (ESLSE) is one of the largest and most strategically vital organizations in Ethiopia’s economic infrastructure. As the national operator for maritime shipping, multimodal transport, dry port terminals, and logistics coordination, it plays a crucial role in moving goods in and out of the landlocked nation. With the expansion of Ethiopia’s logistics infrastructure and its regional influence growing, the demand for professionals in shipping, logistics, and supporting sectors has never been higher.
Accessing job opportunities at ESLSE requires a strong understanding of its operations, employment procedures, and the competitive nature of its recruitment process. This guide will help you navigate the application process from start to finish while showing you where and how to apply, what qualifications are expected, and how to maximize your chances of landing a role.
Understanding the Ethiopian Shipping and Logistics Enterprise
Founded in 1964, ESLSE is a state-owned logistics corporation offering integrated services including sea freight, dry port operations, warehousing, customs clearance, and inland transport. It was formed from a merger of several logistics agencies and now holds Ethiopia’s only maritime flag carrier rights.
The organization operates a fleet of modern vessels and controls several inland dry ports including those in Modjo, Kombolcha, Semera, Mekelle, and Dire Dawa. These facilities link Ethiopian exporters and importers with major ports in Djibouti, Sudan, and other trade partners. ESLSE has a strong relationship with the Ministry of Transport and Logistics and is a pillar of the country’s import-export supply chain.
For more detailed institutional background, you can read an overview on Wikipedia.
Types of Jobs Offered by ESLSE
Ethiopian Shipping and Logistics regularly recruits across a wide spectrum of roles. These can be broadly grouped into the following categories:
1. Maritime and Vessel Crew Positions
These include roles such as:
- Deck officers
- Marine engineers
- Chief mates
- Radio operators
- Navigation specialists
These positions usually require specialized maritime education and global certifications.
2. Port and Terminal Operations
This category includes:
- Port equipment operators (reach stacker, crane, forklift)
- Terminal supervisors
- Container planners
- Yard management staff
- Customs and cargo inspection agents
Experience in dry port operations and customs documentation is often a must for these roles.
3. Logistics and Supply Chain Coordination
These jobs span across:
- Logistics planners
- Import/export documentation officers
- Procurement and supply chain analysts
- Multimodal transport coordinators
Applicants with backgrounds in international trade, logistics, or supply chain management are usually prioritized.
4. Technical and Mechanical Support
Common job titles here include:
- Vehicle mechanics
- Equipment technicians
- Marine electricians
- Heavy-duty truck service personnel
Practical experience and TVET certifications are valuable in this category.
5. IT and Administrative Roles
Modern logistics operations rely heavily on:
- ERP systems officers
- Database and server administrators
- HR clerks
- Finance officers
- Customer service representatives
ESLSE increasingly demands digital literacy and SAP experience in back-office roles.
For a sample list of recent job categories, explore archived positions on AddisJobs.
Where to Find Job Openings
The most reliable source for current openings is ESLSE’s official careers portal. All legitimate job postings are published there, with application instructions, deadlines, and eligibility details clearly stated.
You can check live vacancies directly on the ESLSE Vacancy Portal.
In addition to the official website, some trustworthy Ethiopian job boards repost ESLSE opportunities:
That said, you should always verify listings through the ESLSE portal before submitting your application, to avoid applying through expired or unofficial listings.
How to Apply for Jobs at ESLSE
Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
Begin by visiting the ESLSE Vacancy Portal where you’ll find all active listings. Choose the role you’re qualified for and carefully read the requirements.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Most applications require:
- A tailored CV
- Scanned copies of academic certificates
- Copies of professional credentials (e.g. maritime license, customs certification, etc.)
- Letters of experience
- Valid national ID or passport
For positions in maritime or mechanical fields, you may also need a medical fitness certificate and proof of safety training.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Depending on the announcement, applications are submitted either online through the ESLSE portal or in-person at the company’s head office in Addis Ababa. If applying in person, make sure to deliver your documents in a sealed envelope addressed to the HR office with the job reference code clearly indicated.
Online applicants must ensure all fields are completed and uploads are successful. Avoid submitting multiple versions of the same application.
Understanding the Selection Process
Once the deadline passes, ESLSE’s recruitment unit begins screening applications based on educational credentials, relevant experience, and professional qualifications.
Shortlisted applicants are contacted for:
- Written examinations (for administrative and technical roles)
- Practical demonstrations (for mechanical, marine, or operational roles)
- Oral interviews
Those who succeed in the evaluations are then invited to complete employment paperwork and begin onboarding. Depending on the department, you may be asked to complete orientation sessions or training at designated logistics hubs.
Who is the Ideal Candidate?
The ideal ESLSE applicant should demonstrate:
- Technical expertise relevant to the position
- Understanding of logistics or maritime operations
- Familiarity with Ethiopian and international trade laws
- Strong organizational and documentation skills
- Physical fitness for field or port roles
- Commitment to safety protocols and operational standards
Experience with customs documentation, multimodal transport systems, and logistics software tools is a major plus, especially for planning and coordination roles.
Certifications That Boost Your Chances
Candidates can improve their profiles with certifications such as:
- STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) for maritime roles
- FIATA Diploma in Freight Forwarding
- COMESA/CEFTA Logistics Operations Certificate
- SAP Supply Chain Management or ERP systems training
- TVET qualifications in mechanical or electrical trades
If you’re not certified yet, programs through vocational colleges or logistics academies in Ethiopia can help build relevant credentials.
Employee Reviews and Work Culture
While formal reviews are limited, anecdotal employee feedback suggests that ESLSE offers stable employment, predictable promotion paths, and the opportunity to work in a nationally significant institution. Many roles involve routine operations with performance-based salary progression. Benefits include health coverage, allowances for port workers, and in some roles, housing or travel support.
Maritime and field roles may require physical endurance, flexibility for long hours, and willingness to relocate to branch terminals or ports like Modjo or Dire Dawa.
You can read employer reviews from current and former employees on Indeed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
- Using outdated job listings from third-party sites without verifying on ESLSE’s official portal.
- Submitting incomplete applications or omitting documents like credentials or letters of experience.
- Applying for roles without meeting the qualifications, especially in technical or regulated professions.
- Failing to follow instructions, such as not using the correct subject line or reference code.
- Missing deadlines, which are rarely extended.
Opportunities for Career Growth
ESLSE encourages internal promotions and offers training opportunities to committed employees. Entry-level workers in port or clerical roles can advance into supervisory or coordination positions after a few years of service.
The enterprise also partners with government and academic institutions to provide refresher courses, equipment handling certifications, and logistics planning seminars.
Conclusion
Landing a job with Ethiopian Shipping and Logistics requires planning, attention to detail, and an understanding of both the industry and the specific application procedures used by ESLSE. Focus your search on the right platforms, meet eligibility requirements, submit all necessary documentation, and tailor your application to the unique nature of the shipping and logistics environment. By focusing on verified sources, aligning your experience to ESLSE’s operational focus, and committing to quality in your application, you will greatly increase your chances of joining one of Ethiopia’s most strategic institutions.