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- Tasks: Plan and oversee complex lifting operations in a dynamic naval environment.
- Company: Join a leading team at Portsmouth Naval Base, pivotal to UK naval operations.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days leave, early finishes on Fridays, and enhanced pension.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in safety-critical operations while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Lifting Appointed Person with relevant qualifications required.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth and leadership.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
We are looking for an experienced Lifting Appointed Person (AP) to join the team at Portsmouth Naval Base. This is a safety-critical, highly responsible role where your expertise will directly support complex marine and port operations within one of the UK's most significant naval environments. This position blends technical leadership in lifting operations with practical port-side involvement. You will be central to the safe planning and execution of intermediate and complex lifts, working alongside a wide range of stakeholders and contributing to day-to-day port activities. You will report to the Managing Appointed Person and step into a deputy capacity when required.
The Role
As the Lifting AP, you will take ownership of planning and overseeing complex lifting operations, ensuring every activity is compliant, controlled and delivered safely. From producing and reviewing detailed lift plans to making sure RAMS are fully understood and followed, your focus will always be on risk management and safe execution. You will brief and coordinate slingers, crane operators and wider stakeholders with clarity and confidence. Working closely with Royal Navy personnel and Civil Engineers, you will manage DERT documentation, resolve ground loading challenges and adapt quickly within a live operational environment. Beyond lifting operations, you will contribute as a skilled Port Operative - supporting wider activities, identifying risks and improvement opportunities, and demonstrating leadership by stepping in as Deputy Managing AP when needed. This is a hands-on role for someone who thrives on responsibility, collaboration and high standards.
What You Will Bring
- Proven experience working as a Lifting Appointed Person, supported by a recognised AP qualification
- A strong track record of planning and delivering intermediate and complex lifting operations
- Sound working knowledge of LOLER 1998, PUWER 1998 and BS7121
- A detailed understanding of lifting equipment, lifting techniques and safe systems of work
- Experience operating within Portsmouth Naval Base or similarly complex, safety-critical environments
- The ability to communicate professionally with the Royal Navy and a wide range of stakeholders
- A proactive, solutions-focused approach with the ability to manage risk under pressure
- Strong teamwork and collaboration skills
- Willingness to develop further as a Port Operative
- Previous experience using LICCON (desirable, not essential)
- A full UK driving licence
- Eligibility to obtain - or already hold - full security clearance
What You Will Receive
In return, you will be offered a strong package that recognises the importance of the role:
- Competitive salary
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Holiday buy/sell scheme (after probation)
- Early finish on Fridays
- Enhanced pension scheme
- Access to a wide range of internal benefits and colleague discounts
Lifting Appointed Person in Portsmouth employer: Defence
Contact Detail:
Defence Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lifting Appointed Person in Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who have experience in lifting operations. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and safety regulations. Be ready to discuss your past experiences with complex lifts and how you managed risks. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your teamwork skills! Highlight examples where you've collaborated with diverse stakeholders, especially in high-pressure environments. This will demonstrate your ability to thrive at Portsmouth Naval Base.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Lifting Appointed Person in Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Lifting Appointed Person role. Highlight your relevant experience, especially in planning and executing complex lifting operations. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role at Portsmouth Naval Base. Share specific examples of your past experiences that demonstrate your expertise and leadership in lifting operations.
Showcase Your Qualifications: Don’t forget to mention your recognised AP qualification and any other relevant certifications. We’re keen on seeing how your qualifications align with our safety-critical environment and the standards we uphold.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Defence
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of LOLER 1998, PUWER 1998, and BS7121. Being able to discuss these regulations confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but can apply it practically in a safety-critical environment.
✨Plan for Practical Scenarios
Prepare for situational questions by thinking through complex lifting operations you’ve managed before. Be ready to explain your planning process, how you handled risks, and what outcomes you achieved. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and problem-solving skills.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since you'll be briefing slingers and crane operators, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. You might even want to role-play with a friend to get comfortable with explaining lift plans and coordinating with various stakeholders.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Highlight your teamwork and collaboration skills during the interview. Share examples of how you've worked with diverse teams, especially in high-pressure situations. This will help convey that you’re not just a lone wolf but someone who thrives in a collaborative environment.