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- Tasks: Safely operate the pilot vessel and lead the crew in a dynamic marine environment.
- Company: Join Forth Ports, a leading UK port operator committed to sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonuses, pension scheme, health initiatives, and discounts.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative journey towards a greener future in maritime operations.
- Qualifications: Maritime qualifications and strong decision-making skills under pressure required.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Port Office, Stannergate Road
Location: Port of Dundee
Hours: Rotating shift pattern covering 24hrs/365 days per year
Forth Ports is one of the UK's largest and most dynamic port operator groups, playing a key role in connecting the UK with Europe and beyond. As a multimodal ports owner and operator, we are at the forefront of delivering innovative port-related services. With our recent pledge to achieve carbon neutrality by 2032 and Net Zero status by 2042, we are committed to sustainability and driving the expansion of the UK's renewable energy sector, particularly offshore wind.
About The Role
As Pilot Cutter Skipper, you will be responsible for the safe and professional operation of the pilot vessel, ensuring the wellbeing of pilots, crew, and passengers at all times. You will make sound operational decisions on board, lead by example on safety and compliance, and ensure that all activities are carried out in line with company procedures, maritime regulations, and best practice. The role combines vessel command, crew leadership, operational coordination, and practical maintenance to deliver a reliable and efficient pilotage service.
Your Key Responsibilities Will Include:
- Operate the pilot vessel safely and in full compliance with the Safety Management System (SMS), IMO regulations, and Company byelaws
- Maintain a strong safety culture, including enforcing PPE use and delivering safety briefings and toolbox talks
- Take command on board, providing clear instructions to crew and passengers and ensuring adherence to port safety rules
- Carry out thorough pre-sailing checks to confirm vessel readiness and seaworthiness
- Report incidents, near misses, and defects promptly to the Marine Manager / Marine Officer and support investigations where required
- Maintain accurate logs and records of defects, incidents, and vessel activity
- Undertake routine maintenance and support planned servicing and repairs in line with the Operations Manual
- Liaise with FTNS and monitor vessel scheduling to support effective coordination of ship arrivals, departures, and pilot movements
- Maintain high standards of cleanliness and housekeeping across the vessel, quayside, and crew areas
- Ensure vessel and site security, including securing quays after operations and undertaking any reasonable duties as directed
What are we looking for?
We are seeking a professional, safety-focused and dependable individual who can confidently take command and make sound decisions in a dynamic marine environment. The ideal candidate will be an effective communicator and team player, demonstrate strong leadership and attention to detail, and show flexibility to work rostered shifts (covering 24hrs/365 days per year). A proactive attitude, commitment to high standards, and pride in vessel presentation and safe operations are essential.
Skills And Experience Required:
- Comprehensive understanding of maritime safety regulations and operational best practices
- Ability to make sound decisions under pressure in dynamic environments
- Strong communication and coordination skills for effective collaboration with stakeholders
- Commitment to maintaining high standards of safety, cleanliness, and professionalism
Qualifications:
- RYA Advanced Powerboat COC (commercially endorsed)
- VHF/DSC Operator
- Basic Sea Survival
- MCA 1 Day Fire Fighting
- MCA Elementary First Aid
Desirable Qualifications:
- MCA Approved Small Ships Navigation and Radar
- MCA Stability Course
- Able to obtain a ENG1 Medical
- Have an understanding of vessel machinery
- Full UK driving licence
- Full right to work in the UK
What can we offer you?
- A competitive salary
- Discretionary Bonus
- A defined contribution pension scheme and life assurance
- Health promotion events and employee wellbeing initiatives
- Access to our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for you and your family
- Cycle to work scheme and on-site free parking
- Attractive Family Friendly Policies
- Employee discount platform offering discounts on UK-wide restaurants, car rentals, and holidays
- GymFlex health club memberships
We value diversity and 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.
How To Apply
If you are an experienced Pilot Vessel Coxswain, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and a cover letter when submitting your application via the ‘Apply Now’ link.
Required Criteria:
- Relevant maritime qualifications and medical fitness, including RYA Advanced Powerboat (commercially endorsed), safety certificates, and the ability to obtain an ENG1 medical (desirable: navigation, radar, and stability courses)
- Strong operational competence, with sound knowledge of maritime safety, ability to make decisions under pressure, and an understanding of vessel machinery
- Excellent communication and professionalism, demonstrating effective teamwork, coordination, and commitment to high standards of safety and presentation
- Full right to work in the UK
- Full UK driving licence
Closing Date: Wednesday 4th February, 2026
Contract Type: fulltime
Salary: Based on Experience
Pilot Cutter Skipper in Dundee employer: Forth Ports Limited
Contact Detail:
Forth Ports Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Pilot Cutter Skipper in Dundee
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the maritime industry, especially those who work at Forth Ports. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your maritime safety knowledge and operational best practices. Be ready to share examples of how you've made sound decisions under pressure – they’ll want to see your leadership skills in action!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your passion for sustainability! With Forth Ports aiming for carbon neutrality, highlight any experience or ideas you have related to green practices in maritime operations. It’ll show you’re aligned with their vision.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Forth Ports.
We think you need these skills to ace Pilot Cutter Skipper in Dundee
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant maritime qualifications and experience. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Pilot Cutter Skipper, so don’t hold back on showcasing your operational competence and safety knowledge!
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. Share your passion for maritime safety and your commitment to high standards – we love to see that enthusiasm!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This will help us see your strengths quickly!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application via our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team at Forth Ports!
How to prepare for a job interview at Forth Ports Limited
✨Know Your Maritime Regulations
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of maritime safety regulations and operational best practices. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you’re serious about safety and compliance, which is crucial for the role of Pilot Cutter Skipper.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've taken command in previous roles or situations. Highlight your ability to lead a team, make sound decisions under pressure, and ensure safety protocols are followed. This will help you stand out as a dependable candidate.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. Think of instances where you’ve successfully coordinated with others or delivered clear instructions. Practising how you articulate these experiences can help you convey your teamwork and coordination skills during the interview.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions that test your operational competence and decision-making abilities. Prepare for scenario-based questions where you might need to explain how you would handle specific situations on board. This will demonstrate your readiness for the dynamic marine environment.
