Relief Marine Operative

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.

We are currently seeking a Relief Marine Operative to join our team in Hull. This role plays a vital part in ensuring the safe and efficient movement of shipping throughout the port’s locks and during berthing and unberthing operations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Monitor and coordinate vessel movements through the port’s lock systems.
• Operate lock gate machinery at Albert Dock, Alexandra Dock, and other key locations.
• Act as Berthing Master at King George Dock, assisting with the safe mooring and unmooring of vessels.
• Support marine operations by ensuring all procedures are followed in line with safety and operational standards.
• Work flexibly as part of a relief team, covering shifts and duties as required across the port.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• Keep an eye on ship movements around the port to make sure everything runs safely and smoothly. Report any damage to port infrastructure if you spot it.
• Operate the lock gates at both Alexandra and Albert docks as needed.
• Manage the link spans at the P&O terminal to support vessel operations.
• Oversee pilot transfers at Albert Dock when on duty, ensuring safe boarding and landing at the riverside quay.
• Regularly check and clear the lock pit areas and walkways of any debris to keep things safe and tidy.
• Help with general tasks like light cleaning and painting, as directed by the Duty ADM.
• Grit walkways and lock sides during cold or icy weather to prevent slips and falls.
• Carry out dock patrols using the works vehicle to monitor and support operations.

Skills, Experience, Qualifications & Competencies

Requirements:

• Full UK Driving Licence.
• Willingness and ability to work night shifts, weekends, and rotating shift patterns.
• Comfortable working in all weather conditions.
• Physically fit and capable of performing manual tasks.
• Flexible and reliable team player with a proactive attitude.

Desirable:

• Sea-going experience or a marine-related background is a strong advantage.
• Previous experience in port or dock operations is beneficial but not essential—full training will be provided.

Hours of work
The role is based on a 40-hour work week with no fixed shift pattern, as it involves covering for other team members as needed. Shifts are variable and may change daily, including nights and weekends. While a schedule is typically provided a couple of weeks in advance, flexibility is essential as shifts may change at short notice to cover sickness or operational needs.

Closing Date: 25th June 2026

We offer a competitive salary, contributory pension from day one (Starting at 3% employee contribution with 5% company match), private healthcare, access to our Employee Assistance Program, wide range of discounts and cash back with high street and online retailers. We offer an inclusive work environment with an in-house training academy which offers ongoing opportunities to develop your skills.

Want to see what it’s like to work for the UK’s largest port operator? Our virtual work experience programme gives you an inside look at trade, sustainability, safety, and careers in one of the UK’s most vital indutries- https://www.talentxp.co.uk/track/e2e029cd

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