At a Glance
- Tasks: Pilot vessels in South Wales ports and provide essential information to ship captains.
- Company: Join the UK's largest ports operator, contributing £7.5 billion to the economy.
- Benefits: Generous salary, pension, private health insurance, and extensive training.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with a focus on safety and career progression.
- Why this job: Embark on a rewarding career with diverse vessels and real impact on maritime operations.
- Qualifications: Valid seafarer’s qualification and relevant sea-going experience required.
The predicted salary is between 8000 - 12000 £ per month.
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. 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. Here at ABP we are currently recruiting for a Marine Pilot (Trainee) for our South Wales ports. Please note that this is a 2 year fixed term contract.
The Marine Pilot (Trainee) will pilot vessels under compulsory pilotage within the ABP South Wales regional ports and River Usk Competent Harbour Authority areas (and Non-Compulsory Pilotage of vessels if requested). The Pilot will also make available to the Ship’s Captain all relevant and pertinent information, based upon their comprehensive knowledge of the pilotage area.
Applicants should hold a valid seafarer’s qualification and possess relevant sea going experience. In return we offer a challenging and incredibly rewarding career with a comprehensive training programme and structured progression. This is a varied pilot’s role with you piloting a diverse set of vessels across 5 ports from small coasters and navy vessels up to cape size bulk carriers with everything in between over a variety of locked, tidal and river berths.
We reward our employees and offer a generous remuneration package, employer pension, private health insurance and a range of other benefits. A current valid driving license is required for this role.
Main Duties- Conduct of vessels and provide information on regulatory requirements to the Master as necessary, including applicable safety and environmental provisions
- Maintain a comprehensive and up to date knowledge of all navigational matters within the pilotage area
- Maintain a comprehensive knowledge of the SHA / CHA Marine Safety management system and associated procedures and plans
- Support vessel Masters in communicating with the ports and other vessels
- Maintain regular contact with the LPS and report deficiencies in a vessel's equipment or conduct as appropriate
- Maintain a high level of competency in ship handling
- Perform suitable bridge team duties in relation to statutory obligations
- Record and submit passage plan / pilotage vouchers / MPX Records for each Pilotage assignment
- Prepare and submit incident / accident reports as appropriate
- Provide appropriate assistance in the event of an emergency
- Assist in the training of others as appropriate
- Provide professional maritime advice to appropriate personnel on local navigational and other port issues when required
Excellent communicative and leadership skills are essential. A working knowledge of Port Marine Safety Code (PMSC), all relevant marine, harbour, H&S and environment legislation and its relevance to pilotage operations is required. The ability to balance the demands of stakeholders with regards to safety and commercial awareness is important. A flexible approach to service delivery and working hours, including a willingness to travel as required on ABP South Wales business is expected.
If you feel you have the energy and commitment to meet the challenge, then we’d love to hear from you!
Closing date: 25th February 2026
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.
Marine Pilot (Trainee) in Aberystwyth employer: Associated British Ports
At ABP, the UK's largest ports operator, we pride ourselves on fostering a diverse and inclusive work culture that prioritises safety and employee development. As a Marine Pilot (Trainee) in our South Wales ports, you will benefit from a comprehensive training programme, generous remuneration, and a supportive environment that encourages internal progression and career growth. Join us to embark on a rewarding journey where your skills will be valued and your contributions will make a significant impact on the UK’s seaborne trade.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Marine Pilot (Trainee) in Aberystwyth
✨Get Hands-On with Logistics
Look for opportunities to volunteer or intern with local transport companies or logistics firms. This experience can give you real insights into the industry and make you much more attractive to Associated British Ports when applying for the Marine Pilot (Trainee) position.
✨Join Transportation or Logistics Groups
Find and join online communities or forums focused on transportation and logistics. Engaging with industry professionals in places like LinkedIn or relevant Facebook groups can help you stay updated on industry trends and job openings at Associated British Ports.
✨Visit Career Fairs and Networking Events
Keep an eye out for career fairs specifically focused on transportation and logistics. Attending these events is a great way to meet potential employers like Associated British Ports and create a more personal connection that could land you that Marine Pilot (Trainee) role.
✨Directly Apply on Our Website
Don't forget to head over to our website to apply for the Marine Pilot (Trainee) role at Associated British Ports. It’s often the best way to ensure your application stands out, and you'll be engaging directly with our hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Marine Pilot (Trainee) in Aberystwyth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Organisational Skills:In the transportation and logistics field, having great organisational skills is key. Make sure your CV showcases any relevant experience, like managing schedules or coordinating deliveries. If you've handled logistics in a volunteer role or a part-time gig, shout about it!
Show Your Willingness to Learn:As a trainee, we want to see your excitement about learning and growing in this space. When writing your cover letter, talk about why you're passionate about transportation and logistics, and how you hope to develop your skills with us at Associated British Ports in this role.
Use Industry-Specific Language:When crafting your application, sprinkle in some industry-specific jargon that shows you're familiar with the world of logistics. Terms like 'supply chain management', 'route optimisation', or 'inventory control' will help demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm for the field.
Tailor Your CV for the Role:Make sure to adapt your CV specifically for this trainee position. Focus on your educational background relevant to logistics, any pertinent coursework, and highlight any practical experience, even if it’s just coursework projects. Let’s make your application stand out to Associated British Ports!
How to prepare for a job interview at Associated British Ports
✨Get to Grips with Logistics Basics
As a trainee in transportation and logistics, it’s crucial to have a solid understanding of the basics, like supply chain principles and inventory management. Brush up on these topics and be ready to discuss them, as they might pop up in scenarios during the interview with Associated British Ports.
✨Show Off Your Organisational Skills
Logistics relies heavily on strong organisational abilities. Be prepared to share examples of how you've handled multiple tasks or managed deadlines in the past. It could be anything from a project at uni to volunteering—showing your potential through experiences can really impress the interviewers.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Industry Tools
Make sure you're familiar with commonly used logistics software or tools like TMS (Transportation Management Systems) or warehouse management solutions. If you’ve used any related tech during your studies or internships, be ready to talk about your experience. It shows you're actively engaged and ready to hit the ground running at Associated British Ports.
✨Express Your Eagerness to Learn
As a trainee, your willingness to learn will be just as important as what you already know. During the interview, express your enthusiasm for the transportation-logistics field and your desire to absorb knowledge and skills from those around you. It's all about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but a valuable learning opportunity at Associated British Ports.
