We’re the UK's largest ports operator with a network of 21 ports around Britain. We handle around one quarter of the UK's seaborne trade and contribute £7.5 billion to our economy every year.

It’s a story we’re proud of but it doesn’t end there. We’re transforming our business and embracing the future.

We offer a vast range of roles spanning the UK, all rooted in a culture that welcomes diversity, fosters talent, encourages internal movement and progression, and places safety as our number one priority.

As an island nation, over 95% of trade by volume goes by ship through more than 100 ports around the United Kingdom. UK ports employ around 118,000 people – from container and bulk cargo ports to passenger terminals, to leisure and marinas. ABP’s Marine Operations Teams ensure the safe transit and handling of vessels in and out of the port. The Port Marine Operations Officer apprenticeship programme is designed for individuals who are interested in developing their career in a marine environment and provides a rare and exciting opportunity to learn about shipping and port operations.

As a Marine Operations Apprentice you may be involved in the berthing of vessels, vessel traffic services (VTS) and marine services, operation of harbours and marinas, conservancy, environmental protection, statutory compliance and operation of harbour marine craft within the Harbour Authority area of jurisdiction.

We are looking for highly motivated self-sufficient individuals as this is an extremely responsible position with a key contribution to the safe and efficient operation of the port. The role will involve shift working including nights and working in all environments, on the water and shoreside.

The Port Operation Officer apprenticeship is designed to give those interested in working in a marine environment the opportunity to learn about shipping and port operations, while working for a port operator. The apprenticeship is designed to give hands-on training in all aspects of port marine operations such as, patrol and pilot launches, the berthing officer role and in vessel traffic services. Health and safety is paramount in Port Operations and a key part of the role, with apprentices being involved on a daily basis with ensuring all work is carried out meeting the requirements of risk assessments and following safe systems of work.

Apprentices may get the opportunity to work in/ shadow other departments such as Cruise, hydrography and Health & Safety to gain a wider understanding of Port Operations.

The apprentice needs to be a go getter and able to manage and prioritise their schedule to ensure their workbook and assignments are completed on time.

This apprenticeship involves rigorous and substantial training up to 3 years. You will be expected to attend college in South Tyneside - this will be for around 9 months in a block, accommodation costs will be covered by ABP.

Entry Requirements

5 GCSEs at grade 4/C or above which must include English and Maths
A keen interest in the marine/port industry
Able to use initiative and take ownership for own performance.
Strives to achieve the best results with a talent for problem-solving.
Resilience, with the ability to maintain a positive attitude when working under pressure.
Strong team-working and leadership abilities
Excellent communication skills
A proactive attitude to health & safety management and incident prevention
A full driving licence is mandatory

Additional Information

When joining ABP you will find an environment that is both welcoming and challenging. We reward our employees well and offer a generous remuneration package, employer pension, private health insurance and a range of other benefits.

Please note that ABP undertake random screening for substance abuse and operate a zero-tolerance policy. A medical will be required before starting this position also.

We are an equal opportunities employer and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their background, which helps us to provide a diverse and inclusive working environment.

Associated British Ports

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Marine Operations Aprentice