Bridge Operative in Whitby

North Yorkshire Council is recruiting a new Bridge Operator to join the team delivering their vital service in Whitby Harbour.

About the Bridge

Whitby Harbour Swing Bridge is a central and crucial part of Whitby’s transport links whether it be by river or by road. The current swing bridge was built in 1908. It links the upper and lower harbour areas and the east and west sides of the town. The bridge spans 75ft and each section can be operated independently swinging horizontally. Its iconic operation draws visitors and allows Whitby port to remain functional.

The Role

The bridge is manned for two hours either side of high water. While on duty the bridge operatives maintain a listening watch on VHF channels 11 and 16.

The first opening will be as soon as practical two hours before high water. The final opening will be 10 minutes prior to two hours after high water.

The Harbour Authority’s Bridge Operators are on hand to open and close the bridge for river traffic two hours either side of high tide, all year round.

The role has a three-week rota which allows for variety and rotation of weekend working, with additional payments for night and weekend work.

What you can bring

This role requires some customer facing elements so experience of working with the general public and answering queries will be highly beneficial. In addition, we are ideally looking for candidates who have;

• Experience of maritime operations either on a professional or leisure basis
• Previous experience of general maintenance and cleaning duties
• Boating handling knowledge and skills
• A sound knowledge of Whitby harbour and of the Whitby area in general

What We Offer

In addition to your salary, we offer a range of great benefits to help you financially and make life a bit easier. When you join us, you are entitled to our outstanding benefits and wellbeing plan as part of your position:

• Our holiday entitlement starts at 28 days rising to 34 days (pro-rata) per year with continued service, plus public holidays
• Pension: save for your retirement with our generous local government pension scheme
• salary sacrifice, employee cash back and discounts schemes
• Learning, development and career advancement opportunities
• Health Assured – confidential help and support for your wellbeing

For full details, please see out Total Rewards Brochure at the bottom of this advert

Contact

For additional information, or an informal chat about the role please contact the Harbour Office in Whitby on 01947 602354, or email James Buck (james.buck@northyorks.gov.uk)

Key dates

Closing date: 21 September 2026

Interview Dates: w/c 28 September 2026

Venue for Interview: Whitby Harbour Office

Key documents

Job Description

Total Rewards Brochure

Company: North Yorkshire Council

Salary: £26,847 – £28,153 pro rata per

Location: Whitby, North Yorkshire

Sector: Public and Third sector

Job Role: Operative