Part-time HPL Coxswain in Dover

We are seeking an experienced Part Time Pilot Launch Coxswain to support our pilot launch operations and wider marine activities across the Port of Dover. This role plays a vital part in ensuring the safe, efficient, and professional transfer of pilots and personnel, as well as supporting a range of marine and harbour services. You will work both afloat and ashore, delivering excellent customer service while maintaining the highest standards of safety, compliance, and vessel readiness. This is an ideal opportunity for an experienced mariner looking for part time employment within a busy and dynamic port environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Safely operate company vessels to carry out pilot transfers and marine support tasks as directed by Vessel Traffic Services (VTS).
• When acting as coxswain, take command of the vessel, ensuring safe navigation and the wellbeing of all onboard in line with company procedures and maritime regulations.
• Support a variety of marine operations, including:

• Mooring activities
• Hydrographic survey support
• Oil spill response
• Personnel transfers
• General harbour patrol duties

Essential Qualifications & Experience

• Certificate of Competence (commercially endorsed) with extensive skipper experience on vessels up to 24m LOA.
• Full STCW certification, including:

• First Aid & AED
• Fire Fighting & Fire Prevention
• Personal Survival Techniques
• Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities

Personal Attributes

• Calm and composed under pressure, with the ability to manage changing priorities.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build effective working relationships.
• Excellent communication skills at all levels.
• A collaborative team player with a positive, professional attitude.
• Committed to safety, integrity, and continuous professional development.

Working Arrangements

• Part time role with a fixed working pattern. We have an 18-week continuous shift roster made up of equal day and night 12-hour shifts averaging 8 shifts per calendar month. Typically, a block of shifts are 2 x day shifts (0700 - 1900) followed by 2 x night shifts (1900 - 0700) although occasionally 3 x night shifts and 3 x day shifts. The blocks of shifts are not programmed on a calendar month but based over an 18-week period and are fixed and not flexible.
• Prepared to work at sea in all weather conditions.
• Willingness to undertake ongoing maritime training.
• Flexibility to adjust shifts or provide additional cover when required (by agreement).
• Physically fit and able to meet ENG1 medical requirements.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a highly respected port operation with safety at its core.
• Varied and interesting role within a professional marine environment.
• Opportunity to contribute to a critical public and commercial service.

Benefits

• 5 weeks annual leave + bank holidays (pro rata)
• Generous contributory pension scheme
• Discretionary annual bonus scheme
• Private Health Care
• Life assurance
• Employee assistance programme
• 3rd party discounts
• Cycle to work scheme
• Benefits and reward platform
• Free Parking
• Employee volunteering scheme

Salary

£18,193 + £3000 shift allowance

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 looking after each other and respected, included and able to perform at their best. All applications are reviewed by our team - we do not use AI for screening.