At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage port operations and ensure safe navigation in Orkney's waters.
- Company: Join the Orkney Islands Council, a supportive and inclusive employer.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and relocation package available.
- Other info: 12-hour shifts with 3 weeks off; great career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a difference in maritime safety while enjoying a unique lifestyle in Orkney.
- Qualifications: OOW certificate or VTS Nautical Knowledge Course required.
The predicted salary is between 29.53 - 29.53 £ per hour.
Advert Marine Officer / VTS Operator Harbour Authority Building, Scapa 37 hours per week Permanent £63,458 - £70,258 (including shift allowance, Distant Islands Allowance and contractual overtime) £26.70 - £29.53 per hour (including shift allowance and Distant Islands Allowance) You will be reporting to the Deputy Harbour Master.
Your working pattern is 2 weeks on shift (1 week of days, 06:30 -18:30, followed by 1 week of nights, 18:30 - 06:30) and then 3 weeks off shift.
We are happy to talk flexible working, where possible.
Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates to fill the position of Marine Officer/VTS Operator in Orkney.
Candidates for the post must possess a minimum of an OOW certificate or VTS Nautical Knowledge Course with a V103/1 VTS Operator certificate (or the ability to achieve this within 6 months of appointment).
The Marine Officers duties will include port control room manning (radar surveillance, VHF operations, CCTV monitoring, etc.) on a watch keeping basis together with routine operations of the Port VTS information service.
The successful applicant will be required to be available on the mainland of Orkney as the roster involves working 12 hour shifts, day and night.
This post requires a Level 1 Disclosure check.
Interview expenses are payable for this post, click here for further information .
Relocation package is available in line with Council Policy for this post, click here for the Relocation Policy .
Applications close at 23:59 on Sunday 2 August 2026, with shortlisting taking place week commencing 3 August 2026 and interviews scheduled for week commencing 17 August 2026.
For a discussion about the role, contact Douglas Manson at douglas. manson@orkney. gov. uk or on 01856 873636.
For information on applying and our recruitment process, click here for Information for Applicants.
We would welcome your feedback on our recruitment process .
Orkney Islands Council is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of age, gender, race or ethnicity, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity status or gender reassignment status.
Marine Officer/VTS Operator - ORK10599 in Orkney employer: Orkney Islands Council
Orkney Islands Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment for those embarking on a career in social care. With a focus on employee growth through practical experience and training towards an SVQ 2 in Social Services and Healthcare, staff are empowered to make a meaningful impact in the lives of adults within the community. The council promotes flexible working patterns and values diversity, making it an ideal place for individuals seeking rewarding employment in a caring profession.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Marine Officer/VTS Operator - ORK10599 in Orkney
✨Connect with Local Logistic Groups
Dive into local transportation and logistics groups on platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn. Show up to their meetups if you can – it's a great way to network with industry pros who can share insights, job openings, or even refer you to their own company.
✨Get Behind the Wheel of Job Boards
Look for job boards specific to transportation and logistics, like Logistics Job Site or TransportJobs. These platforms often have listings that you won’t find on general job boards, so they’re worth checking out regularly!
✨Leverage Internships & Graduate Schemes
Many companies in transportation and logistics offer graduate schemes and internships that can pave the way to full-time positions. Don't shy away from applying; even a short stint can make a solid impact on your CV and get your foot in the door at companies like Orkney Islands Council.
✨Apply Directly with Us!
When you find openings at great companies, make sure to apply directly through our website. It not only shows your initiative but also helps us to help you get noticed by Orkney Islands Council. Every application gets us one step closer to landing that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Marine Officer/VTS Operator - ORK10599 in Orkney
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience:When you're applying for a role in the transportation and logistics sector at Orkney Islands Council, make sure to highlight any relevant experience. Whether it's moving goods, coordinating schedules, or using transportation management software, give us the lowdown on your past gigs. It'll paint a clearer picture of what you're capable of!
Quantify Your Achievements:Numbers speak volumes in logistics! If you've optimised routes, reduced delivery times, or improved customer satisfaction, mention those incredible stats in your CV. This gives us concrete evidence of your impact and showcases your problem-solving skills.
Tailor That Cover Letter:Your cover letter should be more than just a formality—let it breathe your personality and passion for logistics! Explain why you're excited about the role at Orkney Islands Council and how you can contribute to our team. Don't forget to tie in specific skills or experiences that relate to the job description.
Research and Reflect:Before you hit 'submit,' spend some time digging into Orkney Islands Council. Understand our mission, values, and the specific challenges in the logistics industry. This will help you craft a targeted application that shows you truly want to be part of our crew, setting you apart from the rest!
How to prepare for a job interview at Orkney Islands Council
✨Know Your Logistics Basics
Get familiar with the key principles of transportation and logistics, like supply chain management, inventory control, and route optimisation. You might get asked practical questions about how to improve efficiency, so brush up on your problem-solving skills and be prepared to discuss any relevant software tools you've used.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
In logistics, employers love to gauge how you'd handle real-life situations. Expect scenario-based questions where you’ll need to demonstrate your decision-making skills, like how to manage delays or coordinate shipments during a crisis. Practise outlining your thought process clearly and logically.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Experience
Full-time roles in logistics often require collaboration with various teams, so don't forget to showcase your teamwork experience. Think of examples where you've used communication and collaboration to ensure smooth operations, and get ready to elaborate on how you can facilitate teamwork in a busy environment like at Orkney Islands Council.
✨Show Off Your Attention to Detail
In our world of logistics, missing a small detail can lead to big problems. Be prepared to discuss instances where your attention to detail saved the day, whether it was engaging with clients, managing documentation, or tracking shipments accurately. This will help demonstrate how you can be a reliable asset to Orkney Islands Council.