Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support port operations, including loading and unloading cargo and handling baggage.
- Company: Harwich International Port, a leading UK multi-purpose freight and passenger port.
- Benefits: Fixed 39-hour week with opportunities for training and career advancement.
- Other info: Night shifts and weekends included; great for those seeking hands-on experience.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and play a key role in port operations.
- Qualifications: Must be 21+, hold a full DVLA licence, and be willing to train.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Harwich International Port (HWH) is one of the UK’s leading multi-purpose freight and passenger ports. We are looking to appoint Port Operators to support the delivery of Port Operations, including the undertaking of stevedoring duties in freight handling, general cargo handling, cruise and all support areas. This role reports to the Berth Supervisors and works a fixed shift pattern of 39 hours per week.
Key Requirements
- Mooring and un‑mooring of all vessels.
- Moving, discharging and loading all trade vehicles to ships and trains.
- Carrying out baggage handling duties, including use of carousel and conveyors.
- Operating forklifts, internal movement vehicles, high capacity cranes and other plant as required.
- Communicating with quay areas using UHF radios.
- Lashing and securing cargoes.
- Carrying out all housekeeping duties to maintain a clean and efficient workplace as directed by Berth Supervisors.
- Carrying out tasks in line with company policy and Health & Safety requirements.
Who are we looking for?
Suitable applicants should meet the following criteria:
- Full DVLA licence.
- Applicants must be age 21 or over.
- Hold all relevant plant licences or ability to gain these following a period of training.
- NVQ Level 2 in stevedoring or ability to gain within 2 years of joining.
It would be advantageous to have:
- Good working knowledge of Ro‑Ro and General Cargo operations.
- Understanding of Company Policies and Procedures.
The role will involve working on a 39 hour / 7 day shift pattern, including night shifts and weekends. Please apply via the Portal by clicking "Apply on Company Website". The selection process will involve a competency based interview and plant trainability assessment. Selection will take place between June and July 2026 with a view to successful applicants starting in role in September 2026.
Port Operators – Harwich International employer: Harwich International Port
Contact Detail:
Harwich International Port Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Port Operators – Harwich International
✨Tip Number 1
Get familiar with the port operations! Knowing the ins and outs of mooring, cargo handling, and the equipment used will give you a leg up during interviews. We recommend brushing up on your knowledge of Ro-Ro and General Cargo operations to impress the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since you'll be using UHF radios to communicate with quay areas, being clear and concise is key. We suggest doing some mock conversations with friends to get comfortable with the lingo.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your commitment to safety! Familiarise yourself with Health & Safety requirements and company policies. During your interview, we can highlight how you prioritise safety in your work, which is crucial for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
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 Harwich International Port. Don’t forget to prepare for that competency-based interview and plant trainability assessment!
We think you need these skills to ace Port Operators – Harwich International
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Us Your Skills: When you're filling out your application, make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have with stevedoring or cargo handling. We want to see how your skills match up with what we're looking for!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your past roles and responsibilities, so we can easily see how you'd fit into our team at Harwich International.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! Take a moment to tailor your responses to the specific requirements in the job description. This shows us that you’re genuinely interested in the role and understand what it entails.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to apply via our website by clicking 'Apply on Company Website'. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered for the Port Operators position!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harwich International Port
✨Know Your Stuff
Familiarise yourself with the specific duties of a Port Operator. Understand the mooring and unmooring processes, as well as the equipment you'll be using like forklifts and cranes. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're serious about the role.
✨Safety First
Since health and safety is a big part of the job, be prepared to discuss how you would handle various safety scenarios. Brush up on company policies and procedures related to safety, and think of examples from your past experiences where you prioritised safety in your work.
✨Communication Skills Matter
You'll need to communicate effectively with your team and use UHF radios. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. During the interview, demonstrate your ability to communicate by asking questions and engaging with the interviewer.
✨Shift Flexibility
Be ready to discuss your availability for the 39-hour shift pattern, including nights and weekends. Show enthusiasm for the flexibility required in this role, and if you have experience working shifts, share those stories to highlight your adaptability.