At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to maintain and repair critical port infrastructure through welding and fabrication.
- Company: The Port of Dover, a key player in national infrastructure.
- Benefits: Enjoy 5 weeks annual leave, private health care, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Flexible working hours with opportunities for overtime and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a supportive environment while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 3 in welding/fabrication and 3 years' experience required.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 35000 £ per year.
The Port of Dover is looking for a skilled Welder/Fabricator to join our Engineering team. This is a key role within our Mechanical function, where you’ll contribute to maintaining and repairing critical port infrastructure. You’ll act as a technical specialist in welding and fabrication, using a variety of techniques to support the upkeep and reliability of our diverse range of assets. Working both independently and as part of a team, you’ll take pride in delivering high-quality workmanship in a fast-paced, safety‑critical environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Carry out new fabrication and repair welding across a wide range of plant and equipment
- Perform welding techniques including MMA, MMAW, and GTAW
- Manufacture components and structures from engineering drawings using a variety of materials
- Support the day‑to‑day operation of the mechanical workshop, ensuring work is completed to schedule and quality standards
- Deliver planned preventative maintenance and routine repairs
- Complete job reports and maintenance records via the Ports ERP system
- Ensure all work is carried out in line with risk assessments, statutory regulations, and Health & Safety policies
- Liaise with operations teams, contractors and external stakeholders to minimise disruption
- Support apprentices and colleagues through training and technical guidance
- Assist with sourcing and procurement of parts, materials, and equipment
- Respond to breakdowns and emergencies, including participation in standby or shift rotas
About You
Qualifications & Experience
- Apprenticeship in a relevant discipline (minimum NVQ Level 3 or equivalent)
- Minimum 3 years’ post‑qualification experience in welding and fabrication
- Proven ability to interpret engineering drawings and produce high‑quality fabrications
- Experience creating and reviewing risk assessments
- Good IT skills, including experience using ERP systems
- Full UK driving licence
Working Environment
- Work in challenging conditions (noise, weather, dust, heavy plant environments)
- Be required to exert sustained physical effort and maintain concentration over long periods
- Work flexibly, including overtime, call‑outs, and participation in a standby or 24/7 rota (with additional payments)
Why Join Us?
- A supportive and collaborative working environment
- Ongoing training and development opportunities
- Diverse and interesting work across a unique engineering setting
- The chance to contribute to critical national infrastructure
We offer additional 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
Hours of work: Monday – Friday 40 hrs per week
Salary: £35k
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. 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.
Closing date: 24 July 2026 at 5pm
Technician (Welder/Fenderman) in Dover employer: Port of Dover
The Port of Dover offers an exceptional working environment for skilled Technicians, particularly in welding and fabrication. With a strong emphasis on employee development, you will benefit from ongoing training opportunities while contributing to vital national infrastructure in a collaborative and supportive team. Enjoy generous benefits including 5 weeks annual leave, a contributory pension scheme, and private healthcare, all within a unique engineering setting that values safety and quality workmanship.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Technician (Welder/Fenderman) in Dover
✨Get Your Hands Dirty
In skilled trades, practical experience is everything. Consider volunteering or doing odd jobs in your area to build up your skills and visibility. Local businesses often appreciate helping hands and it might just lead to a full-time gig!
✨Join Trade Associations
Look into joining organisations specific to your trade (like the National Federation of Builders or similar). They often have job boards, networking events, and apprenticeships that can put you in touch with employers who value skilled workers. Plus, being part of these communities adds credibility to your profiles!
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Craft a portfolio that highlights your craftsmanship—before and after photos, project descriptions, and client testimonials are all golden! Share this on platforms that cater to skilled trades, like Instagram or dedicated forums, to attract potential employers looking for your skillset.
✨Apply Directly and Follow Up
Don’t just rely on job boards—visit local businesses, introduce yourself, and drop off your CV. Building rapport face-to-face can work wonders in the skilled trades sector. And remember, following up after applying through our website shows dedication; it might just give you an edge over other candidates!
We think you need these skills to ace Technician (Welder/Fenderman) in Dover
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills with Certificates:In the skilled trades world, your practical skills and certifications are key! Make sure you highlight any relevant qualifications or training you've completed. If you’ve got a trade-specific certificate, like an NVQ or City & Guilds, include it in your CV to catch Port of Dover's eye.
Tailor Your CV to the Job:Don’t just send out a generic CV; tailor it specifically for the skilled trades role at Port of Dover. Emphasise your hands-on experience, the tools and techniques you’re proficient in, and any notifiable compliance standards you've met. This shows that you’ve put thought into your application.
Highlight Your Projects or Achievements:Don’t forget to showcase any significant projects or achievements in your cover letter. Whether it’s completing a complex installation or meeting deadlines on a large project, these details make a big difference. They help paint a picture of your expertise and dedication!
Keep It Concise and Relevant:When applying for a full-time role in skilled trades, keep your writing to the point. Hiring managers appreciate clear, concise applications. Focus on relevant experiences and skills, and avoid fluff. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can get the job done—so show them you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at Port of Dover
✨Master the Hands-On Skills
In skilled trades, practical skills matter a ton. Be ready to showcase your hands-on abilities during the interview—whether it's through a practical test or a demonstration of your craftsmanship. Bring your best examples of past projects to discuss them in detail!
✨Know Your Tools Like the Back of Your Hand
Employers in the skilled trades often want to hear about your proficiency with specific tools and equipment. Brush up on the tools relevant to your field and be prepared to discuss your experiences using them. This shows you’re not just experienced but also safe and competent.
✨Be Ready to Talk About Safety Practices
Safety is paramount in skilled trades. Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of safety regulations and how you've implemented them in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment—a quality that employers highly value.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
When tackling skilled trade roles, employers want to know about your ability to think on your feet. Be ready with examples of how you've solved unexpected problems on the job. This will illustrate your adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits for a full-time position at Port of Dover.
