At a Glance
- Tasks: Support marine operations, maintain vessels, and ensure safety on the river.
- Company: Port of London Authority, dedicated to safe river use and environmental protection.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 28 days leave, medical cash plan, and pension scheme.
- Other info: Great career growth opportunities and training provided for new deckhands.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact on river safety and conservation.
- Qualifications: GCSE education; marine experience and relevant licences are a plus.
The predicted salary is between 33507 - 33507 £ per year.
Department: Marine Services
Reporting to: Marine Manager Afloat
Grade: 10
Salary: £32,443 per annum (plus 10% operational allowance)
Base: Denton Wharf, Gravesend
Who we are:
We are the UK’s biggest port, central to the country’s economy and ambitions for growth. We connect the UK to the world, but we are much more than a conventional port.
We are driven by our purpose to protect and improve the 95 mile stretch of the River Thames which is tidal – from Teddington Lock on the border of Surrey, through the heart of London, Kent, Essex and out to the North Sea.
The Role
The Marine Services department is seeking positive and flexible individuals to work on a range of vessels to support operations. Duties that are carried out by the department include overhauling moorings, oil spill response, salvage and diving, debris and obstruction removal, general deckhand tasks, craft maintenance and cleaning as well as working ashore at our main operational base at Denton, Gravesend.
What we are looking for
- Relevant marine and/or river experience is desirable and ideally candidates will already possess or be working towards an RYA Day Skipper, RYA Yacht Master or MCA Boatmaster Licence.
- Successful applicants will have excellent communication skills as you will be required to deal with members of the public.
- You will hold a current full driving licence and be physically fit.
- Training appropriate to the deckhand role will be provided.
Our Behaviours
You naturally demonstrate our values:
- One Team – acting with integrity, delivering on commitments, and upholding safety and standards.
- Do the Right Thing – collaborating, valuing others’ expertise, and supporting colleagues.
- Always Improving – bringing fresh thinking, learning from mistakes and driving continuous improvement.
Benefits Package
- 28 days annual leave (plus Bank Holidays)
- Medical Cash Plan (Westfield Health)
- Generous pension
- Onsite parking with electric charging
- Access to Occupational Health, Mindfulness, Counselling and Physiotherapy
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Car-leasing scheme (Tusker Cars)
- Access to MyGymDiscounts
For further information, or if you would like to have an informal discussion about the position, please contact Michael Russell, Marine Manager Afloat, on 07711640082.
The PLA are not registered with the UK Home Office and do not sponsor candidates who require a visa or work permit to work in the UK, therefore an offer of employment cannot be made unless you currently hold the rights to live and work in the UK.
General Purpose Deckhand in Gravesend employer: Port of London Authority
The Port of London Authority is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Gravesend where marine professionals can thrive. With a strong focus on employee development and a comprehensive benefits package, including 28 days of annual leave, the organisation fosters a supportive culture that values teamwork and communication. Join us to be part of a vital service that plays a key role in maintaining the safety and efficiency of our waterways.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land General Purpose Deckhand in Gravesend
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research the Port of London Authority and their operations. Understanding their values and mission will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info about the role and might even lead to a referral, which can significantly boost your chances of landing the job.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for practical assessments! As a deckhand, you might face hands-on tests. Brush up on your skills related to vessel maintenance and safety checks. Practising these tasks can give you the confidence to impress during the selection process.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to submit your application directly. Plus, it shows that you're proactive and serious about joining the team at the Port of London Authority. Don't miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace General Purpose Deckhand in Gravesend
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights any relevant marine experience or qualifications you have. We want to see how your skills match up with the deckhand role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your strengths!
Craft a Strong Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're excited about working with us at the Port of London Authority and how you can contribute to our mission. Keep it friendly and professional.
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since you'll be dealing with the public, it's important to demonstrate your excellent communication skills in your application. Whether it's through your CV or cover letter, let us know how you connect with others!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to the right people quickly. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Port of London Authority
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your marine knowledge and any relevant experience you have. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a General Purpose Deckhand, especially tasks like safety checks and pollution control. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're serious about the role.
✨Show Off Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be dealing with the public, it's crucial to demonstrate your communication skills during the interview. Practice explaining complex ideas simply and clearly. You might even want to prepare a few examples of how you've successfully communicated in past roles or situations.
✨Get Physical
Being physically fit is a must for this job, so don’t shy away from discussing your fitness routine or any relevant physical activities you engage in. If you have experience with manual labour or outdoor work, make sure to highlight that too!
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the training provided for new deckhands or how the team handles safety protocols. It shows you're genuinely interested in the role and the company, which can set you apart from other candidates.
