At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our COAST team as a Port Operative, handling baggage and directing traffic.
- Company: Dynamic port service provider with a focus on teamwork and customer care.
- Benefits: Earn £13.45 per hour, enjoy flexible shifts, and access great employee perks.
- Other info: Seasonal role with opportunities for growth and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of the busiest cruise season and make a real difference for travellers.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; just bring your enthusiasm and communication skills!
The predicted salary is between 6 - 25 £ per hour.
We are seeking Port Operatives to fulfil diverse roles within our COAST team, providing a service to multiple business sectors including Cruise and Traffic during our peak season. This year is the busiest Cruise season with 114 Cruise ships arriving at the Port. This will be on a seasonal contract starting ASAP through to August 2026. Hours will average between 6 – 25 per week depending on the contract you are offered. Shifts can be an early morning start and will vary in shift length. Some weeks you could work more hours, up to 48 hrs, and other weeks less than your average. You will be informed of your shifts at least 3 weeks in advance, unless urgent cover is needed. Shift allocation will be based on operational requirements.
In this role, you'll be expected to fulfil the following job roles along with any additional responsibilities to support the organisation:
- Baggage handling – Lifting luggage, taking passengers' luggage to/from their vehicles.
- Traffic Operative – Directing traffic and acting as first point of contact for our customers, offering information and assistance with their journey through the port.
- Mooring – Working as a team mooring Cruise ships as and when required.
What we are looking for:
- Previous experience with one or more of the above skills would be an advantage, but not essential as full training would be given.
- Be able to work a range of shifts including evenings & weekends, as required.
- Physically active and able to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
- Have excellent communication skills.
- Ability to deliver empathetic customer service in challenging situations.
- Full UK manual driving license (desirable).
Benefits:
- Accrued holiday entitlement.
- Auto enrolment pension (after 3 months).
- PPE provided.
- Free parking.
- Employee assistance programme.
- 3rd party discounts.
- Benefits and reward platform.
- Employee volunteering scheme.
Hourly rate: £13.45p/h. All offers of employment are subject to us obtaining satisfactory references (covering all education, training, employment and unemployment in the preceding 5 years) and there will be a pre-employment medical including a Drug and Alcohol test. We need to satisfy your Right to Work in the UK. Please be aware that all employees will be subject to background security checks in order to obtain a Dock Pass. We value the unique differences that each of our colleagues bring to work every day and are committed to creating an environment where everyone is respected, included and able to perform at their best. All applications are reviewed by our team — we do not use AI for screening.
CLOSING DATE: 22 June 2026
COAST Operative employer: Port of Dover
Join our dynamic COAST team as a Port Operative, where you'll be part of an exciting and bustling environment during the peak Cruise season. We offer flexible working hours, comprehensive training, and a supportive work culture that values diversity and employee well-being, alongside benefits such as accrued holiday entitlement and an employee assistance programme. With opportunities for personal growth and a commitment to teamwork, this role is perfect for those seeking meaningful employment in a vibrant location.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land COAST Operative
✨Join Local Logistics Groups
Get involved in local transportation and logistics communities. Check out meetups or social media groups where professionals hang out. Networking with people already in the field can lead to insider tips and potential job opportunities, especially during peak seasons.
✨Keep Your Eyes on Seasonal Hiring
Companies in the transportation and logistics sector often ramp up their hiring during peak seasons. Stay alert for announcements from Port of Dover about seasonal positions. Sign up for job alerts on their website to catch openings as soon as they drop!
✨Show Off Your Skills on the Ground
If you have relevant experience, consider visiting local distribution centres or warehouses to express your interest in working. Many times, showing your enthusiasm in person can help you stand out from the crowd, especially for seasonal roles.
✨Utilise Short-Term Job Platforms
Explore platforms dedicated to seasonal work within logistics. Websites that focus on temporary roles can give you a foot in the door. Plus, don’t forget to check out freelance opportunities for varied roles during busy times – it’s a great way to build experience and visibility!
We think you need these skills to ace COAST Operative
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Time Management Skills:In the transportation and logistics industry, being organised is key! Highlight any experiences where you successfully managed multiple tasks or tight schedules. This is especially important for a seasonal role like COAST Operative at Port of Dover, where timing is everything.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any industry-specific certifications, like fork lift licences or safety training, make sure to include them in your CV. These show that you’ve got the necessary skills for the job and can hit the ground running during this busy season.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Busy Season:For a seasonal role, it's essential to express your motivation and flexibility. Use your cover letter to explain why you’re interested in working during this peak time and how you can contribute to Port of Dover’s success by being available when they need you the most!
Use Your CV to Demonstrate Practical Experience:Since you're applying for a seasonal position, any practical experience in transportation, logistics, or related fields should be front and centre in your CV. Make sure to list your previous roles, focusing on what you actually did, so that Port of Dover can see you’re ready to roll.
How to prepare for a job interview at Port of Dover
✨Know Your Logistics Tools
Make sure you're familiar with the software and tools commonly used in transportation and logistics, like TMS (Transportation Management Systems). Be ready to discuss how you've used these tools before or how you'd approach using them effectively at Port of Dover.
✨Emphasise Adaptability and Teamwork
Since this is a seasonal role, highlight your flexibility and ability to adapt quickly to changing demands, especially during peak times. Discuss any past experiences where you successfully collaborated with a team to meet tight deadlines, as that's a big deal in logistics!
✨Case Studies and Real-Life Scenarios
Prepare to tackle some situational questions or case studies. Interviewers might ask how you would manage unexpected delays or coordinate with multiple stakeholders. Practising these types of questions will help us demonstrate our problem-solving skills effectively.
✨Show off Your Customer Service Skills
Even in logistics, customer service is key. Be prepared to talk about how you've handled client interactions or resolved issues in the past. They'll want to see that you're someone who can keep customers happy, especially when things get hectic during the season!
