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- Tasks: Lead hydrographic survey operations and ensure safe vessel navigation.
- Company: Join the UK's biggest port, vital for the economy and growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days leave, medical cash plan, and onsite parking with electric charging.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the River Thames while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in commanding commercial vessels and strong computer skills.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for travel and professional development.
The predicted salary is between 36721 - 40400 £ per year.
Department: Hydrographic Services, Department of Marine Operations
Reporting to: Hydrographic Operations Manager
Grade: 9
Salary: £36,721 per annum (plus 10% operational allowance)
Working pattern: this role is shift based, typically 4 days per week, working an average of 35 hours per week – rosters will be available to the successful candidate
Base: Gravesend
Closing date: 17th February 2026
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 involves working aboard the PLA’s hydrographic survey vessels, providing professional seamanship and operational support to the Master to ensure the safe, efficient operation of the vessels and the successful delivery of hydrographic activities. Responsibilities include:
- Boat handling and navigation in tidal and close‑quarter areas for surveying.
- Manual operations, using vessel equipment, and the rigging, deployment, and towing of surface and sub‑surface survey sensors.
- Undertaking routine maintenance and safety inspections of the hull, deck, engine room and lifesaving appliances.
- Working from PLA shore facilities and undertaking commercial contract work across the UK.
- Periodic travel and working away from home.
- Maintaining a good standard of computer literacy for administration, including proficiency with onboard control systems, PLA applications, charting systems, and Microsoft Office.
- Completing all mandatory documentation and post‑incident reporting.
- General maintenance of the craft and active interface with support services.
- Completing all provided training, development, and mandatory non‑PLA workplace inductions.
- Being a positive role model regarding safe practices and equipment use.
What we are looking for:
An experienced and enthusiastic individual with proven ability to take command of a commercial power‑driven vessel up to 24m in length.
In return, we offer a competitive benefits package:
- 28 days annual leave (plus Bank Holidays)
- Medical Cash Plan (Westfield Health)
- Onsite parking with electric charging
- Access to Occupational Health, Mindfulness, Counselling and Physiotherapy
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Car‑leasing scheme (Tusker Cars)
- Access to MyGym Discounts
For further information or if you would like to have an informal discussion about the position, please contact Jim Powell, Hydrographic Services at jim.powell@pla.co.uk
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.
Hydrographic Leading Hand in Gravesend employer: Thames Skills Academy
Contact Detail:
Thames Skills Academy Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Hydrographic Leading Hand in Gravesend
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the hydrographic field, attend industry events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and practical skills. Be ready to discuss your experience with vessel operations and safety standards, as well as how you handle challenges on the water. Show them you're the right fit for the Hydrographic Services team!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on roles that excite you! Use our website to find positions that match your skills and interests. Tailor your approach to each job, highlighting your relevant experience and enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your appreciation and keeping you top of mind. It’s a great chance to reiterate your interest in the position and remind them why you’re the best candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Hydrographic Leading Hand in Gravesend
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Hydrography: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for hydrographic services shine through. We want to see that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about the work we do and the impact it has on the River Thames.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description. We love seeing how your background aligns with our needs, so don’t hold back on showcasing your boat handling and navigation expertise!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key achievements stand out. This helps us quickly see why you’d be a great fit for the Hydrographic Leading Hand role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at the PLA.
How to prepare for a job interview at Thames Skills Academy
✨Know Your Vessels
Familiarise yourself with the types of vessels you'll be working on. Understand their operational capabilities and safety features, as well as any specific equipment used for hydrographic surveys. This knowledge will show your enthusiasm and readiness to take command.
✨Demonstrate Your Seamanship Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with boat handling and navigation, especially in tidal and close-quarter areas. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed these situations in the past, highlighting your ability to ensure safety and efficiency.
✨Showcase Your Technical Proficiency
Since the role requires a good standard of computer literacy, brush up on your skills with onboard control systems and charting applications. Be ready to talk about your experience with Microsoft Office and any relevant software, as this will be crucial for administrative tasks.
✨Emphasise Safety and Maintenance Knowledge
Highlight your understanding of routine maintenance and safety inspections. Discuss any previous roles where you ensured high safety standards and operational readiness, as this is key to the Hydrographic Leading Hand position.
