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- Tasks: As a VTS Operator, you'll manage marine traffic and assist vessels with vital information.
- Company: Join Shetland Islands Council, a forward-thinking organisation committed to community and career development.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, full funding for qualifications, and a supportive career progression path.
- Why this job: This role offers hands-on experience in marine operations while living in stunning Shetland's vibrant community.
- Qualifications: Must hold a valid IALA V103-1 certificate; training and support provided for career growth.
- Other info: Temporary full-time position for approximately 2 years, with a salary including Distant Islands Allowance.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Advertisement Details
The VTS Operator provides information and instructions to vessels appropriate to the level of service provided by the VTS, and decides on the actions to be taken in response to data received on marine traffic. Reporting to the Harbour Master, the post requires a current and valid IALA V103-1 certificate as a minimum qualification in order to undertake a VTS watch.
The duties and responsibilities of the VTS Operator shall include:
- Communication with ships by phone, email and radio to ascertain and pass on required information.
- Operate equipment for communications, data collection, data analysis and establishment of a traffic image.
- Transmit information
- At appropriate times or when requested by a vessel or harbour user.
- As may be needed to aid a ship in difficult navigational or meteorological circumstances or in case of defects or deficiencies.
- Organise shipping traffic by means of promulgating information, traffic monitoring and traffic regulations using, as necessary, nautical knowledge of the area concerned, the traffic image and the marine information management system.
- Respond to emergency situations such as distress and marine pollution and where appropriate, coordinate communications.
This vacancy is being advertised as a Career Graded post, which is a career development opportunity. This means that the Council is committed to supporting the successful candidate to obtain the necessary skills, abilities and knowledge to become fully competent in the role. Please see the Career Grade document attached to this advert that outlines the entry level requirements for the job and the expected career progression route. The successful candidate will be supported to become fully competent in the role and progress through the career grade. Where there is a requirement to achieve a qualification, this will be fully funded by the Council.
More detail is provided in the Job Profile, Person Specification and Conditions of Service Summary attached to the bottom of this advert.
Please follow the link(s) below for further information –
Additional Information
- The grade of this post is H/I
- This post is career graded – your salary and career progression will depend on your experience and qualifications
- Salary shown in the advert is inclusive of Distant Islands Allowance of £2,859 per annum (pro rata)
- Temporary Full Time post for 40.6 Hours per Week , 52.18 weeks per year
- Temporary post for a period of approximately 2 years
- A relocation package does not apply to this post
- We will pay interview expenses from within Shetland
- You must have the ability to travel throughout Shetland at short notice and where public transport is limited
- We are happy to talk flexible working
During the application process you are required to give the names of two persons not related to you, who we can contact to provide a reference to support your application.
This post is based at Port Administration Building, Sella Ness.
For further details relating to this post, please contact: James Milne – Team Leader-Deputy Harbour Master – james.milne@shetland.gov.uk – 01595744245
If you have a disability which prevents you from applying online, please call 01595 744032.
Information about Shetland
Shetland is an archipelago in the north of the British Isles where you\’ll find freedom, wildlife and wild beauty, but also a rich culture and dynamic, forward-looking society. The Islands have a thriving and diverse economy full of opportunities and offer residents the ideal work/life balance. Shetland combines stunning coastal landscapes and wide open spaces with friendly, bustling island communities. Factor in Shetland\’s impressive modern amenities, highly regarded schools and the Islands offer a work life balance rarely found elsewhere.
Find out more about:
Living and working in Shetland: here
The Shetland Islands Council: here
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Temporary VTS Operator - SIC08183 employer: Medirest Signature
Contact Detail:
Medirest Signature Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Temporary VTS Operator - SIC08183
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the IALA V103-1 certification requirements and ensure you have a current and valid certificate. This is a minimum qualification for the role, and being well-prepared will demonstrate your commitment to the position.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your communication skills, especially in maritime contexts. Being able to effectively communicate with vessels via phone, email, and radio is crucial, so practice clear and concise messaging.
✨Tip Number 3
Gain a solid understanding of the local marine traffic and navigational challenges in Shetland. Knowledge of the area will not only help you in the role but also impress the interviewers with your proactive approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for potential emergency scenarios by reviewing protocols for distress situations and marine pollution responses. Showing that you can think critically and act decisively in emergencies will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Temporary VTS Operator - SIC08183
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and qualifications required for the VTS Operator position. This will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant skills and experiences.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Make sure to emphasise your IALA V103-1 certificate and any other relevant qualifications or training. Clearly state how your background aligns with the requirements of the role.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since the role involves communication with ships and harbour users, provide examples in your application that demonstrate your effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
Provide References: Include the names of two references who can vouch for your skills and experience. Ensure they are not related to you and are aware that they may be contacted by the employer.
How to prepare for a job interview at Medirest Signature
✨Know Your Marine Traffic Regulations
Familiarise yourself with the relevant marine traffic regulations and procedures. Understanding the legal framework and operational protocols will demonstrate your competence and readiness for the role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a VTS Operator, effective communication is key. Prepare to discuss your experience in communicating with vessels and how you handle different scenarios, especially in emergency situations.
✨Demonstrate Technical Proficiency
Be ready to talk about your experience with communication equipment and data analysis tools. Highlight any relevant certifications, such as the IALA V103-1, and be prepared to explain how you would use these tools in your daily tasks.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-life scenarios. Think of examples where you've had to make quick decisions under pressure, particularly in challenging navigational or meteorological conditions.