At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dedicated team in lifesaving missions at sea, ensuring operational excellence.
- Company: Join the RNLI, a respected organisation committed to saving lives at sea.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 26 days annual leave, pension scheme, and life insurance.
- Other info: Dynamic role with 24/7 emergency response; live within 10 minutes of the station.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Coxswain or ability to develop necessary skills; maritime qualifications preferred.
The predicted salary is between 35853 - 42181 £ per year.
Salary: £35,853 - £42,181 (dependent on experience)
Contract Type: Temporary: Fixed Term Contract or Secondment
Hours: Full Time
Location: Torbay, Devon, England
Location Description: This role is based at Torbay Lifeboat Station
Interview Date: To be confirmed
Closing Date: 21-06-2026
Reference: 21107
About us
Our purpose is simple: to save lives at sea. 24 hours a day, every day, RNLI lifesavers are ready to launch to the rescue. There is an opportunity for a Coxswain to be part of our Torbay Lifeboat Station. To be part of this team, you'll be someone whose resilience and leadership skills are just as strong as your ability to handle a boat in adverse sea conditions.
The benefits:
- Salary of £35,853 - £42,181 (dependent on experience)
- 26 days annual leave (plus Bank Holiday days)
- Competitive pension scheme
- Life Insurance
Your role
The Coxswain role supports the full range of volunteer crew members and role activities at the station. This role contributes to the operational assurance of the lifeboat station by providing feedback and support to the local and regional operations teams. Much of your time will be divided between ensuring the Station and the ALB Severn lifeboat and its associated equipment operate to the highest order, and training and assessment of volunteer crew to the RNLI's competence standards.
You will need to have experience in the following areas:
- Experience of fulfilling all elements of a Coxswain role previously, or demonstrate the ability to develop skills to the required level in the near future
- Relevant maritime qualifications would complement your verifiable marine experience, either mechanically or maritime
- Demonstrable boat handling experience
- Detailed knowledge of navigation principles and IRPCS
- Knowledge and experience of the operation, maintenance and repair of marine diesels would be desirable, as would the ability and capacity to develop skills in this aspect of the role
This is a 24/7 maritime emergency response role. You'll need to live within 10 minutes of the Lifeboat Station and will spend much of your time ready to respond to a pager and be prepared to put to sea in Command of the Lifeboat in all conditions, day or night. Since this is a sea-going appointment, you will also need to satisfy the Institution's medical and eyesight standards.
About you
You'll have the ability to build effective relationships with volunteers at the lifeboat station, the supporters locally and RNLI staff beyond, while acting as an ambassador for the station and the RNLI within the community.
- Excellent leadership qualities
- Evidence of working in a team environment
- Ability to motivate and maximise people's potential
- Sound interpersonal skills
So, if you are ready for your next exciting challenge as a Coxswain and consider yourself to be someone who is a natural leader who can inspire and motivate a team of dedicated people, then please apply via the button shown.
Safeguarding
The RNLI is committed to safeguarding; protecting a person's health, wellbeing, and human rights, enabling them to live free from harm, abuse, and neglect. We expect all employees and volunteers to share this commitment and have a zero-tolerance approach. The suitability of all prospective employees and volunteers will be assessed during the recruitment process in line with this commitment. This will include relevant criminal record checks being carried out, dependent on the eligibility of the role.
Diversity at the RNLI
Our staff and volunteers have been saving lives at sea without prejudice for 200 years. We respect and value diversity of background, skills and perspectives within our teams, and consider it essential to help us deliver a world-class lifesaving service. We are an inclusive organisation and welcome applications from everyone. In addition to having the skills needed for the role, we also look for applicants who share our commitment to living our RNLI values (trustworthy, courageous, selfless, and dependable), and helping us work towards Our Vision: To save Every One.
ALB Coxswain, Torbay Lifeboat Station - Temporary up to 2 years employer: RNLI
The RNLI is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to join a dedicated team at the Torbay Lifeboat Station, where your leadership and maritime skills will directly contribute to saving lives at sea. With a competitive salary, generous annual leave, and a strong commitment to employee development, you will thrive in a supportive work culture that values teamwork and community engagement. Join us in making a meaningful impact while enjoying the beautiful coastal environment of Devon.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land ALB Coxswain, Torbay Lifeboat Station - Temporary up to 2 years
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the RNLI and its mission. Understanding our values and what we stand for will help you connect with the interviewers and show that you're genuinely passionate about saving lives at sea.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your boat handling skills! If you can demonstrate your experience and confidence in managing a lifeboat, it’ll set you apart from other candidates. Plus, it shows you’re ready to take command when it counts.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former RNLI staff and volunteers. They can provide insider tips on what it’s like to work here and what the interview process entails. Plus, it’s a great way to show your commitment to the community.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the latest opportunities and updates directly from us.
We think you need these skills to ace ALB Coxswain, Torbay Lifeboat Station - Temporary up to 2 years
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for lifesaving and the sea shine through. We want to see that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about making a difference in the community.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to detail your previous experience as a Coxswain or in similar roles. We’re looking for specific examples of your boat handling skills and leadership abilities, so don’t hold back on showcasing what you’ve done!
Tailor Your Application:Take the time to tailor your application to the role at Torbay Lifeboat Station. Mention how your skills align with our mission to save lives at sea and how you can contribute to our team’s success.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at RNLI
✨Know Your Maritime Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your maritime qualifications and boat handling experience. Be ready to discuss specific scenarios where you've demonstrated your skills in adverse conditions, as this will show your capability to handle the Coxswain role effectively.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led a team or motivated volunteers in the past. The RNLI values strong leadership, so think about times when you've inspired others or resolved conflicts within a team. This will highlight your ability to build effective relationships at the lifeboat station.
✨Understand the RNLI's Mission
Familiarise yourself with the RNLI's purpose and values. During the interview, express your commitment to saving lives at sea and how you align with their mission. This will demonstrate that you're not just looking for a job, but are genuinely passionate about the work they do.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect practical questions related to navigation principles and marine diesel operations. Brush up on your knowledge of IRPCS and be prepared to discuss how you would handle specific situations on the water. This will show that you're not only experienced but also proactive in your approach to the role.
