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- Tasks: Lead a crew and ensure safe tug operations in busy ports.
- Company: Join Svitzer, a global leader in towage with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension matching, life cover, and medical insurance.
- Other info: Enjoy 1 week rotations and work with a modern fleet.
- Why this job: Take command of your vessel and make a real impact every day.
- Qualifications: Must hold a Master’s certificate and have strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 70722 - 70722 £ per year.
Svitzer is looking for an experienced Tug Master to join our Felixstowe operation. This is not a ceremonial command. It’s a hands-on role at the sharp end of towage, where judgement, leadership, and ship-handling skill are tested every day.
If you take pride in running a safe, well-prepared tug, leading a crew that trusts your decisions, and working in close cooperation with pilots and port authorities, you’ll understand exactly what this role demands.
What the Role Really InvolvesAs Tug Master, you are accountable for the safe, efficient operation of your tug—every movement, every evolution, every decision. That means:
- Handling assisted ships safely and decisively in confined waters
- Setting the safety standard on board and making sure it’s lived, not laminated
- Leading and developing your crew, creating a culture of trust and professionalism
- Maintaining vessel readiness, documentation, and operational reporting
- Working closely with Port Managers, Harbour Pilots, and port stakeholders
- Taking ownership of your vessel—because that’s what command actually means
This is practical seamanship, real responsibility, and leadership that counts. Because tug command should mean something.
1 week rotations – focused work, then proper time away
Modern, well-maintained fleet – no shortcuts, no compromises
A company that backs its Masters – trust, support, and clear standards
Global leader in towage with local teams that know their ports inside out
We don’t sell an easy job. We offer a professional one.
What You Get- Competitive salary of £70,722.46 per annum
- Permanent time for time contract
- Pension matched up to 10%
- Life Cover (4x pensionable salary) and Single Private Medical Insurance
- 7 days leave after 3 years’ service
- Employee Assistance Programme
Master
Master - Felixstowe employer: Svitzer Americas
Contact Detail:
Svitzer Americas Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Master - Felixstowe
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the maritime industry, especially those who know Svitzer. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your ship-handling skills and safety protocols. We want you to showcase your leadership abilities and practical seamanship during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to research Svitzer’s operations and values. Understanding their commitment to safety and professionalism will help you align your answers with what they’re looking for.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Felixstowe.
We think you need these skills to ace Master - Felixstowe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Experience: When you're writing your application, make sure to highlight your relevant experience as a Tug Master. We want to see how your skills and past roles align with the hands-on nature of this position.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We appreciate authenticity, so don’t be afraid to share what makes you passionate about tug command and leading a crew.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your application specifically for the Felixstowe role. Mention how your leadership style and safety standards fit with our company values and the demands of the job.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Svitzer Americas
✨Know Your Vessel Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of the tug you’ll be operating. Familiarise yourself with its capabilities, limitations, and maintenance requirements. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show that you take ownership of your vessel.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Tug Master, leadership is key. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully led a crew or made critical decisions under pressure. Highlight how you fostered trust and professionalism among your team, as this aligns perfectly with what they’re looking for.
✨Understand Port Operations
Research the Felixstowe port operations and any recent developments or challenges they may be facing. Being able to discuss these topics during your interview will demonstrate your proactive approach and genuine interest in the role and the company.
✨Safety First Mindset
Prepare to discuss your approach to safety on board. Be ready to share specific instances where you set safety standards and ensured compliance among your crew. This will show that you understand the importance of safety in towage operations and are committed to maintaining high standards.