Local Port Services Officer

We’re the UK's largest ports operator with a network of 21 ports around Britain. We handle around one quarter of the UK's seaborne trade and contribute £7.5 billion to our economy every year.

It’s a story we’re proud of but it doesn’t end there. We’re transforming our business and embracing the future.

We offer a vast range of roles spanning the UK, all rooted in a culture that welcomes diversity, fosters talent, encourages internal movement and progression, and places safety as our number one priority.

Are you a highly organised person with a sharp eye for detail and a passion for maritime operations? Do you thrive in dynamic environments and excel at coordinating complex logistics? If so, we’d love to hear from you.

Associated British Ports is seeking a Local Port Services Officer to join our South Wales Marine team. Based in Cardiff, you’ll play a vital role in the smooth running of shipping operations across five South Wales ports. This is a fast-paced, multi-faceted role requiring excellent planning skills, strong communication, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.  You must be able to work the following shift patterns:

2 days 2 nights 4 off x 6, then 2 days 2 nights 18 days off. 

Key Responsibilities

• Act as a 24-hour operational contact for vessels and stakeholders within ABP’s Statutory Harbour Authority area.
• Coordinate vessel movements and manage Cardiff lock operations.
• Liaise with customers, ship agents, tug providers, and internal marine teams to ensure seamless operations.
• Publish daily shipping orders and maintain accurate records using systems such as PAVIS and AOL.
• Support marine compliance and safety management systems across the region.

What We’re Looking For

• Exceptional organisational and planning skills – you’ll be juggling multiple priorities and must be able to think ahead.
• Advanced Excel and IT proficiency – confident in Microsoft Word, Excel, Teams, and Outlook.
• Strong communication and customer service skills – able to build effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Maritime experience – recent experience in a marine setting is essential, ideally with knowledge of port lock operations.
• Ability to work independently and flexibly across South Wales ports.
• Full UK driving licence.

Desirable Qualifications

• Short Range Certificate (VHF)
• Experience within safety or quality management frameworks
• Local Port Services Qualification

Additional Information:

When joining ABP you will find an environment that is both welcoming and challenging. We reward our employees well and offer a generous remuneration package, employer pension, private health insurance and a range of other benefits.

Please note that ABP undertake random screening for substance abuse and operate a zero-tolerance policy. A medical will be required before starting this position also.

We are an equal opportunities employer and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their background, which helps us to provide a diverse and inclusive working environment.

As part of our recruitment process, all successful candidates will be subject to pre-employment screening to Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). Please note your consent will be required and further information on this check can be found using the following link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/united-kingdom-security-vetting-clearance-levels/national-security-vetting-clearance-levels