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- Tasks: Assist with passenger and vehicle control at the port, ensuring smooth operations.
- Company: Join CalMac Ferries, the UK's largest ferry operator, serving vital transport needs in Scotland.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 37 days annual leave, and staff travel perks for you and your family.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team making a real impact on island communities while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Must be customer-focused, computer literate, and hold a full UK driving licence.
- Other info: Flexible shifts required; ideal for those seeking summer or winter work opportunities.
Reports to: Port Manager
Vacancy Ref: 2241-SB
Contract: Permanent
Rate of pay: £12.07
Location: Colonsay
Hours per week: 1 x 14 hours per week in Summer, 10 hours per week in Winter
Date advertised: 11 August 2023
Closing date: 25 August 2023
CalMac Ferries Limited is the UK's largest ferry operator in terms of ships and destinations served and one of the largest transport operators in Scotland. It is a multi-award-winning ferry and port operation and ship management specialist providing essential lifeline services and logistical support to island and remote communities.
Benefits of a career with CalMac Ferries Limited:
- A rewarding career
- A competitive salary
- Excellent training, development, and career progression
- 37 days annual leave (pro-rata)
- Staff travel pass for yourself, spouse/partner, and dependents
Functional Responsibilities/Key Tasks:
- Control of passengers and vehicles embarking and disembarking from vessels by giving clear and concise direction to all
- Sale and validation of passenger and vehicle tickets
- Service disruption arrangements
- Emergency requirements 'out-of-hours'
- All duties connected with ship movements, gangways and securing of vessels
- Car marshalling
- Customer Enquiries
- Statistical entry and consolidation
- Use of VHF and PA systems
- Any other duties required by the Port Manager
Skills and Experience
Essential Criteria:
- Good understanding of the CalMac services
- You must be computer literate, with excellent verbal and written communication skills
- You must be customer focused, have a clear understanding of the customer interface, and have a proactive approach to customer care.
- The successful candidate must be able to commute to and from the Colonsay Ferry Terminal on a daily basis.
- Must hold full UK Driving License
- You are expected to have a flexible approach to working, as shift and weekend work will be involved
- Ability to work with initiative as a self-starter, without supervision
- Willingness to be a team player in a dynamic, proactive, and fast-paced environment
Desirable Criteria:
- Experience using VHF and PA Systems
- Able to liaise with other port staff to ensure that there is a high level of proactive communication and coordination of activity
Our People: Values & Behaviours
To navigate the waters, ensuring life thrives wherever we are
- PEOPLE FIRST: We lead by example and inspire others to give their best. We work constructively with colleagues in a 'one team' spirit.
- LOCALITY: We put the customer at the heart of everything we do. We are accountable for our actions and performance.
- BRAVERY: We demonstrate good judgement and decision making. We act with integrity in all that we do.
The Selection Process
Application: It is important that you demonstrate on your CV how you meet the essential and desirable criteria outlined within the Job Description.
Shortlisting: We will evaluate your suitability for the role by assessing your qualifications, skills and experience.
Interview: To ensure you are in the best position to perform to your highest standards during our selection process, make sure you review the competencies outlined in the Job Description and have prepared examples of times you have successfully demonstrated these behaviours in the past.
Data: If you apply for this role and your application is unsuccessful, we will, as part of the Equality Act 2010, retain your application for 1 year after the role is filled and then destroy this.
Port Assistant (Colonsay) employer: CalMac Ferries Limited
Contact Detail:
CalMac Ferries Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Port Assistant (Colonsay)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with CalMac Ferries' services and routes. Understanding the operational aspects of the ferry service will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous customer service experience you have. Since the role is customer-focused, sharing specific examples of how you've successfully handled customer interactions can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your flexibility regarding working hours. Given that the position involves shifts and weekend work, demonstrating your willingness to adapt to these requirements will be crucial.
✨Tip Number 4
If you have experience with VHF and PA systems, make sure to mention it during your interview. Even if it's not essential, showing familiarity with these tools can give you an edge in a fast-paced environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Port Assistant (Colonsay)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights how you meet both the essential and desirable criteria mentioned in the job description. Use specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your customer service skills and ability to work in a team.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only introduces yourself but also explains why you are interested in the Port Assistant position at CalMac Ferries Limited. Mention your understanding of their services and how your skills align with their values.
Prepare for the Interview: Review the competencies outlined in the job description and prepare examples of how you've demonstrated these in previous roles. Be ready to discuss your experience with VHF and PA systems if applicable, as well as your approach to customer care.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, double-check for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial for a role that involves clear communication.
How to prepare for a job interview at CalMac Ferries Limited
✨Know the Company
Before your interview, take some time to research CalMac Ferries Limited. Understand their services, values, and the communities they serve. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and align your answers with their mission.
✨Showcase Customer Focus
As a Port Assistant, customer service is key. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully handled customer inquiries or resolved issues. Highlight your proactive approach to customer care, as this aligns with the company's values.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Since the role requires excellent verbal and written communication skills, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. You might be asked about how you would communicate with passengers during busy times, so think of scenarios where you effectively communicated under pressure.
✨Be Ready for Practical Scenarios
Expect questions that assess your ability to handle real-life situations, such as managing passenger flow or dealing with service disruptions. Think of specific instances where you used initiative and teamwork to solve problems, as these are crucial for the dynamic environment at the port.
