Marine Cargo Inspector

We are SGS – the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 99,600 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer and more interconnected world. Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and reliability. SGS’s Natural Resources business line powers the petrochemical, mining, energy, and resource sectors with expert testing, inspection, and certification. From exploration to trade, SGS helps clients boost efficiency, stay compliant, and reduce risk—backed by cutting‑edge labs, digital tools, and a global network.

Job Type: Permanent

Location: West Thurrock

Salary: £35,300-£39,900 (depending on level of experience), including company vehicle

Hours: Annualised hours contract – Average 48 hours per week (Work arrangements are around ship/vessel timings, you will need to be flexible to work weekdays and weekends)

Industry: Oil, Gas and Chemicals

Please note: Due to the nature of the role and operational requirements, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this position. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK at the time of application.

Are you looking for a hands‑on role where no two days are the same? Ideally you already have experience in oil & gas, including on board vessels or terminal operations, or you’re ready to further develop your career in this space, this could be the opportunity for you. At SGS we’re looking for a motivated and adaptable Cargo Inspector to join our team. This role offers full training and the chance to build a long‑term career within a world‑leading organisation.

What you’ll be doing:

• As a Cargo Inspector, you’ll play a crucial role in ensuring the accuracy and integrity of global oil and gas shipments. Your responsibilities will include:
• Carrying out sampling and measurement of cargoes including crude oil, petroleum products, petrochemicals and gases
• Performing inspections such as visual checks, temperature and volume measurements, and drawing representative samples of cargo
• Accurately recording data and completing calculations to determine load, discharge and transfer quantities
• Working closely with colleagues, clients, terminals and third parties to ensure smooth operations and communicate any delays or issues

About the role:

This is a varied, operational role where you’ll often be working outdoors and in different environments. The role can be physically demanding and may involve:

• Climbing shore tanks and performing operations at heights
• Entering confined spaces
• Walking distances on terminals and client sites
• Boarding vessels alongside berths or at sea

You’ll be part of a 24/7, 365‑day operation, so will need to be able to work in a flexible call‑out pattern to ensure resources are aligned to workload and SGS can meet customer needs, often driven by shipping and tide times.

Qualifications

What we’re looking for: We’re keen to hear from candidates who bring previous relevant experience. This includes:

• Experience within oil & gas, chemicals, or wider maritime industries (highly desirable)
• Physical resilience and the ability to work in demanding, outdoor environments
• Flexibility to work as part of a 24/7 operation
• Strong communication skills (both written and verbal)
• A full UK driving licence

Additional Information

At SGS, we believe in rewarding our employees for their hard work and commitment. As part of our team, you would be eligible for:

• Performance related bonus (discretionary and subject to eligibility criteria)
• Private medical cover (subject to eligibility criteria)
• Generous Annual Leave allowance (increasing with service) plus bank holidays
• Enhanced maternity/paternity and adoption pay
• Length of Service Awards
• An additional day off for your birthday
• Discounted Gym Membership

SGS is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and as such we recruit, hire, train, and promote persons in all job classifications without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristics protected by law.