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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Safely handle cargo and operate specialist equipment at the Port of Tilbury.
- Company: Join Forth Ports, a leading UK port operator committed to sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, and health support initiatives.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team making a real impact in the renewable energy sector.
- Qualifications: Full UK driving licence, forklift licence, and a proactive attitude are essential.
- Other info: Diverse workplace with excellent career growth and training opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 40749 - 40749 ÂŁ per year.
Location: Port of Tilbury, Leslie Ford House, Port of Tilbury
Hours: 35 hours per week, Mon to Friday (06:00 – 14:00 or 14:00 – 22:00) with overtime available across weekends
Compensation: ÂŁ40,749 per annum
Forth Ports is one of the UK's largest and most dynamic port operator groups, connecting the UK with Europe and beyond. As a multimodal ports owner and operator, we are committed to sustainability and driving the expansion of the UK's renewable energy sector, particularly offshore wind. We are pursuing carbon neutrality by 2032 and Net Zero status by 2042.
About the Role
The Conventional Asset handles Forest Products, New & Used vehicles, Construction Materials, RO/LO traffic, Project/General Cargo, specialised lifts and steel. The Asset has the knowledge and skillset to handle a wide variety of cargoes safely and efficiently with a proven track record with a long-term customer base. As a Cargo Operative for Conventional and Tilbury 2 at the Port of Tilbury, you are responsible for the safe and efficient handling of cargo using specialist plant and equipment. You will load and discharge vessels while maintaining the highest standards of safety and precision. Cargo Operatives may be asked to participate in additional duties which could include other Assets if required. The priority is to provide customers with fast, efficient and accurate service while following all Health & Safety procedures.
Responsibilities
- Safely perform stevedoring activities to achieve required levels of productivity
- Handle cargo and equipment with care to minimise damages and maintain a safety focus
- Adhere to pre-shift briefings, carry out pre-shift checks on required plant, and report changes, defects, breakdowns or accidents to Operations supervisors and management
- Conduct warehousing tasks efficiently, maintain organized stock records, and uphold high housekeeping standards
- Undertake all training; cargo operatives with good plant skills and flexibility may be selected for crane training
- When not handling cargo, perform housekeeping duties such as painting, weeding and general maintenance
- Any other duties as required
What We’re Looking For
We’re seeking a safety-focused, reliable individual with a strong work ethic and proactive approach. You should be comfortable in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment with the flexibility to support a range of cargo operations. A team-oriented mindset, attention to detail, and the ability to follow procedures are essential. Experience operating plant equipment is desirable, along with a willingness to learn and develop new skills. Above all, you’ll take pride in delivering safe, efficient and high-quality work.
Qualifications & Skills
- Full UK driving licence and forklift truck licence
- Commitment to maintaining and promoting a safe working environment
- Proven experience in shift work and operation of plant machinery, particularly in a port or industrial setting
- Understanding of load handling and safety practices
- Ability to perform manual handling tasks in varying weather conditions
- Strong communication skills and a team-oriented approach
- Relevant certifications for operating plant equipment are desirable (e.g., MEWP)
What Forth Ports Can Offer You
- Competitive salary
- Group Bonus
- 34 days of annual leave including bank holidays
- Defined contribution pension with up to 16.5% joint contribution plus life assurance at 4x salary
- Health promotion and employee wellbeing initiatives
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) with free 24/7 support for you and your family
- On-site Occupational Health Team with access to counselling, physiotherapy and flu jabs
- Annual Christmas gift
- GymFlex health club memberships
- Cycle to Work scheme
- On-site free parking
- Family-friendly policies, including enhanced maternity cover
- Employee discount platform for UK-wide savings
We value diversity and inclusivity and are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and will consider all applications without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability status.
How To Apply
Please submit your CV and a cover letter via the “Apply Now” link.
Additional Details
Closing Date: Friday 10th April, 2026
Contract Type: Full-time
Salary: ÂŁ40,749.00 yearly
Cargo Operative in Tilbury employer: Port of Tilbury London
Contact Detail:
Port of Tilbury London Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cargo Operative in Tilbury
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Forth Ports and their operations at the Port of Tilbury. Understanding their commitment to sustainability and safety will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to insider tips or even a referral, which can boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for practical assessments! As a Cargo Operative, you might need to demonstrate your skills with plant equipment. Brush up on your knowledge and practice any relevant tasks to show you're ready to hit the ground running.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the team at Forth Ports.
We think you need these skills to ace Cargo Operative in Tilbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that match the Cargo Operative role. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs, so don’t be shy about showcasing your plant operation experience!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the role and how your proactive approach and safety focus will contribute to our team at the Port of Tilbury.
Showcase Your Team Spirit: We love a team player! In your application, mention any experiences where you’ve worked collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. This will help us see how you can fit into our dynamic team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your CV and cover letter, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table.
How to prepare for a job interview at Port of Tilbury London
✨Know Your Cargo
Familiarise yourself with the types of cargo you'll be handling, like forest products and construction materials. Understanding the specifics of these items will show your potential employer that you're serious about the role and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Safety First!
Since safety is a top priority in this job, be prepared to discuss your understanding of health and safety procedures. Brush up on relevant regulations and be ready to share examples of how you've maintained safety standards in previous roles.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
This role requires a team-oriented mindset, so think of examples where you've successfully worked as part of a team. Highlight your communication skills and how you contribute to a positive work environment, especially in fast-paced settings.
✨Flexibility is Key
Be ready to talk about your flexibility and willingness to learn new skills, like operating plant equipment. Mention any relevant certifications you have and express your eagerness to undergo further training, such as crane training, to enhance your capabilities.