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- Tasks: Join our Marine Services Crew apprenticeship and gain hands-on experience in marine operations.
- Company: Forth Ports, a leading port operator committed to sustainability and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, health support, and career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the marine industry while learning valuable skills for your future.
- Qualifications: National 5 English, Maths, and a science subject; eagerness to learn and work in a team.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with excellent career growth and a commitment to diversity and inclusivity.
The predicted salary is between 13600 - 17000 ÂŁ per year.
Location: Hawes Pier, South Queensferry
Compensation: ÂŁ17,000
Start Date: August 2026
At Forth Ports, we keep trade, logistics, and infrastructure moving. Our emerging talent roles are central to this mission, developing the skills that power our economy and connect communities across the country. Targe Towing, who are part of Forth Ports, provide Harbour and Terminal towage, and associated marine services, specialising in supporting vessel movements associated with the offshore wind industry and other complex towage projects.
Joining our apprenticeship programme means gaining hands-on experience in a dynamic, forward-thinking environment, while developing skills that matter for life and career. You’ll have the opportunity to make a real impact, helping businesses thrive, supporting the smooth operation of our ports, and contributing to projects that shape the UK’s infrastructure and renewable energy future.
With our commitment to reach carbon neutrality by 2032 and Net Zero by 2042, we’re investing heavily in sustainable and digital technologies including major growth in offshore wind and greener port operations. For you, this means joining a business that’s evolving, ambitious, and making a real difference.
At Forth Ports, our people are at the core of everything that we do and we are proud of our Gold accredited membership of The 5% Club, a milestone recognising our long-term commitment to developing emerging talent across the business. As we continue to invest through high-quality “earn and learn” opportunities, whether you’re starting out, changing direction or returning after time away, we’d love to hear from you.
About The Role
We’re offering individuals the opportunity to develop their skills and progress their careers through our Marine Services Crew apprenticeship. Over two years, you’ll gain practical experience, build specialist knowledge, and work towards a recognised qualification, Maritime Occupations at SCQF Level 5, and complete an SVQ in Port Operations. We will hold interviews for this role in March at Hawes Pier in South Queensferry where you will have the chance to meet some of the team and to find out more about the role and the apprenticeship.
What You Will Learn
As a Marine Services Crew apprentice with Targe Towing Ltd, you will gain hands-on experience working across the company’s Marine Services vessels, including SKUA, CORMORANT, GANNET and FOWLER. You will develop practical skills in small boat handling, mooring line operations, and securing vessels to piers and buoys, while learning the importance of safe and efficient marine operations. The apprenticeship will also train you in routine planned maintenance, vessel husbandry and housekeeping, and weather monitoring to support day-to-day operations. You will actively participate in emergency drills and exercises, building confidence in safety procedures and teamwork at sea. In addition, you will complete commercially endorsed training, including the Advanced Powerboat Level 2 qualification, providing a strong foundation for a career in the marine industry.
What can we offer you?
- Structured learning and development pathway linked to your personal and professional growth, supporting long-term career progression
- Competitive starting salary with regular reviews to recognise your performance and development
- Discretionary group bonus
- Generous annual leave entitlement of 34 days including bank holidays
- Defined contribution pension scheme with up to 16.5% joint contribution plus life assurance at 4x salary
- Health promotion events and employee wellbeing initiatives to support your physical and mental wellbeing
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) providing free, confidential 24/7 telephone support for you and your family
- On-site Occupational Health Team with access to professional support and referrals to services such as counselling, physiotherapy and free flu jabs
- An annual Christmas thank you gift of a complimentary turkey or meat-free alternative for all employees
- GymFlex health club memberships offering discounted access to gyms including Nuffield Health, PureGym, Anytime Fitness, The Gym Group, and selected local gyms
- Cycle to Work scheme to support affordable, sustainable commuting
- On-site free parking available for all employees
- Attractive family-friendly policies, including enhanced maternity cover
- Employee discount platform providing savings on UK-wide restaurants, retail, car rentals, days out, and holidays
What are we looking for?
- Candidates who are keen to learn, happy to work as part of a team and eager to make a positive impact to the overall operations
- Applicants will require National 5 English, Maths and a science subject (preferably Physics) at Grade A-C
- Individuals who are able to demonstrate a genuine interest in the work that we do at the port, and are looking to build valuable skills for your future career
- Full UK working rights
- Full driving licence, valid in the UK
We welcome applications from candidates of all ages to apply, but please note due to the nature of our work, we do require all candidates to be a minimum of 18 years of age. We value diversity & inclusivity and we are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and will consider all applications for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability status.
What is the Application Process?
- Application: Apply via the link on our vacancies page with your updated CV and cover letter detailing your interest in the position. Please note the deadline for applications is Friday 6th March 2026. We may close this vacancy earlier than advertised if we receive a large number of applications, so please apply early to avoid missing out.
- Screening call: If your application is of interest, our Talent Acquisition team will be in touch for an initial discussion, answer any questions that you may have and invite you to the assessment centre.
- Confirmation email: We will share an email to confirm what to expect at the assessment centre, anything that you need to prepare and what to bring on the day.
- Interview: You meet the team and get a great feel for why Forth Ports is for you! This will take place in March.
We recognise that assessment centres may not be the best fit for everyone, so we are committed to offering alternative recruitment methods to ensure a fair and inclusive process.
Required Criteria
- Applicants will require National 5 English, Maths and a science subject (preferably Physics) at Grade A-C
- Full UK working rights
- Full driving licence, valid in the UK
Closing Date: Friday 6th March, 2026
Contract Type: Fulltime
Salary: ÂŁ17,000.00 Yearly
Apprentice Marine Services Crew employer: Forth Ports Limited
Contact Detail:
Forth Ports Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprentice Marine Services Crew
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Forth Ports and Targe Towing. Understand their mission, values, and recent projects. This will help you show genuine interest and tailor your answers to what they care about.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of a mirror. Focus on how your skills and experiences align with the role of Apprentice Marine Services Crew. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 3
Dress the part! Even if it’s an informal setting, looking smart can make a great first impression. It shows you’re serious about the opportunity and respect the interviewers’ time.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows appreciation for the opportunity and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Apprentice Marine Services Crew
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Standout CV: Make sure your CV is up-to-date and highlights your relevant skills and experiences. Tailor it to the Marine Services Crew role, showcasing any hands-on experience or interest in marine operations.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Explain why you're excited about this apprenticeship and how your background aligns with what we do at Forth Ports. Be genuine and let your passion for the marine industry come through.
Follow the Application Instructions: Apply through our website using the link on the vacancies page. Make sure to submit both your CV and cover letter before the deadline on 6th March 2026. Early applications are encouraged, so don’t wait!
Prepare for the Screening Call: If we’re interested in your application, we’ll reach out for a chat. Be ready to discuss your motivations and ask any questions you might have about the role or the company. It’s a great opportunity to show us your enthusiasm!
How to prepare for a job interview at Forth Ports Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand what Targe Towing does and how it fits into the marine services industry. Familiarise yourself with their vessels and operations, especially those related to offshore wind projects. This shows genuine interest and helps you connect your skills to their needs.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since teamwork is crucial in marine operations, be ready to share examples of how you've worked effectively in a team before. Highlight any experiences where you contributed to a group goal or helped resolve conflicts. This will demonstrate that you're a great fit for their collaborative environment.
✨Safety First!
Given the nature of marine services, safety is paramount. Brush up on basic safety protocols and be prepared to discuss why safety matters in this field. You might even want to mention any relevant training or drills you've participated in, as this will show you're proactive about safety.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the apprenticeship structure, opportunities for advancement, or how they’re working towards carbon neutrality. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the company aligns with your values.