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- Tasks: Lead pilot transfer operations and ensure safety at sea with expert decision-making.
- Company: Join PD Ports, a top UK port business with a commitment to talent development.
- Benefits: Enjoy 24 days holiday, life insurance, and a cycle to work scheme.
- Why this job: Make waves in your career while working in dynamic maritime environments.
- Qualifications: Must have seagoing experience, leadership skills, and relevant maritime certifications.
- Other info: Shift pattern of 4 on 4 off for a balanced work-life schedule.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 63000 £ per year.
Location: Vulcan Street, Middlesbrough, TS2 1LX
Closing Date: 31st March 2026
PD Ports is a leading UK port business offering end-to-end supply chain solutions, employing over 1,400 people in the UK. With headquarters based in the Northeast of England, PD Ports owns and operates the UK's sixth largest port by volume. Operating out of 11 key ports and logistics centres across the UK, we are committed to retaining and developing talent nationwide.
A vacancy has arisen for an experienced full time Pilot Cutter Master at PD Ports within the Marine Department.
Working Arrangements: Shift pattern of 4 on 4 off (2 days, 2 nights, 4 days off).
Salary: £45,150.00 per annum.
The main things our Pilot Cutter Master will be working on are:
- Prior involvement in pilot transfer operations is required, including experience with boarding and disembarking pilots in varied sea conditions.
- Masters should demonstrate proficiency in emergency response and procedures including man-overboard drills, search and rescue operations and vessel evacuation protocols.
- Experience in vessel maintenance including basic engine repairs, hull inspections and equipment checks is advantageous for ensuring operational reliability.
We are seeking someone who:
- Possesses strong leadership skills. The ability to communicate clearly with crew, pilots and port authorities is essential.
- Pays meticulous attention to navigational charts, weather forecasts and operational procedures to help maintain safety standards and can be adaptable and flexible to deal with unpredictable situations and changing maritime conditions.
- Must be capable of rapid, sound decision-making under pressure, especially during adverse weather or emergencies.
- A minimum of an Advanced Powerboat or RYA/MCA Yachtmaster with Commercial Endorsement or a Boatmaster Licence.
- Valid mandatory STCW safety training certificates and valid ENG1 medical certificate is essential.
- Must hold a valid Marine Radio Operator Certificate.
- Must possess a minimum of two years' seagoing experience. Extensive practical experience in seagoing experience and vessel handling is required.
- Familiarity with local waters, tides, and navigational hazards is essential.
We offer 24 days holiday, paid maternity, paternity and adoption leave, life insurance and a cycle to work scheme.
If you are interested in this opportunity please apply in writing, outlining relevant skills & experience, to hr.recruitment@pdports.co.uk and use job reference PCNW2965.
Pilot Cutter Master employer: Pd Ports
Contact Detail:
Pd Ports Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Pilot Cutter Master
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the maritime industry, especially those who work at PD Ports. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info about the company culture and what they really value in a Pilot Cutter Master.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your emergency response skills and vessel maintenance knowledge. Be ready to share specific examples from your experience that showcase your leadership and decision-making abilities under pressure.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your local knowledge! Familiarise yourself with the waters around Middlesbrough and any navigational hazards. This will not only impress the interviewers but also demonstrate your commitment to safety and operational reliability.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the PD Ports team and ready to take on the challenges of being a Pilot Cutter Master.
We think you need these skills to ace Pilot Cutter Master
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience: When you're writing your application, make sure to highlight your previous experience with pilot transfer operations. We want to see how you've handled boarding and disembarking pilots in different sea conditions, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise: We appreciate a straightforward approach. Use clear language to describe your skills and experiences, especially when it comes to emergency response and vessel maintenance. This helps us understand your qualifications quickly.
Tailor Your Application: Make your application stand out by tailoring it to the specific requirements of the Pilot Cutter Master role. Mention your leadership skills and decision-making abilities under pressure, as these are key traits we’re looking for.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at PD Ports.
How to prepare for a job interview at Pd Ports
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of pilot transfer operations and emergency response procedures. Be ready to discuss your past experiences with boarding pilots in various sea conditions, as well as any relevant drills you've conducted.
✨Show Off Your Leadership Skills
During the interview, highlight your leadership abilities. Share examples of how you've effectively communicated with crew members, pilots, and port authorities in high-pressure situations. This will demonstrate that you're not just a skilled master, but also a great team player.
✨Be Prepared for Technical Questions
Expect questions about vessel maintenance and operational reliability. Brush up on basic engine repairs, hull inspections, and equipment checks. Being able to talk confidently about these topics will show that you’re proactive and knowledgeable.
✨Stay Calm Under Pressure
Since the role involves making quick decisions during emergencies, be prepared to discuss how you've handled stressful situations in the past. Use specific examples to illustrate your ability to remain calm and make sound decisions when it matters most.