Marine 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.

Marine Officer – Associated British Ports (Lowestoft)

Full-time | Monday–Friday (occasional weekends as required)

Join the UK’s leading port operator and play a vital role in keeping our coastline moving.

Associated British Ports (ABP) is home to a network of 21 ports that support thousands of businesses and keep Britain trading. We are now looking for a dedicated and capable Marine Officer to join our Marine team in Lowestoft, supporting the safe and efficient operation of one of the region’s most strategically important ports.

The Role

As a Marine Officer, you’ll play a key part in ensuring the safety of navigation and the smooth running of marine operations within the Port of Lowestoft. Working closely with the Divisional Harbour Master and the wider East Anglia Marine Team, you will help uphold the standards required under the Port Marine Safety Code and ABP’s Compliance Management Systems.

This is a varied and hands-on position where no two days are the same. From liaising with vessels, pilots, and customers, to supporting emergency planning and supervising staff on shift, you will be at the heart of marine operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Support and cover statutory duties in the absence of the Divisional Harbour Master or Deputy
• Assist in coordinating daily marine operations across the port
• Maintain effective communication with ships’ masters, agents, customers, and regulatory bodies
• Contribute to risk assessments, Safe Systems of Work, and marine safety procedures
• Oversee the operational readiness of the pilot boat
• Supervise marine and bridge staff during shifts
• Monitor conservancy functions and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements
• Support the management of Port Emergency, Waste, OPRC, Flood Contingency and Business Continuity Plans
• Contribute to training, development, and ongoing support of the marine team

About You

We are looking for someone with strong leadership qualities, confidence in decision‑making, and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of marine safety.

Essential

• STCW II/2 Certificate of Competency or relevant marine experience
• Experience in ship handling across different vessel types
• Sound knowledge of marine legislation, safety requirements, and operational protocols
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative, flexible approach
• A commitment to delivering high-quality marine services
• Full UK Driving Licence

Desirable

• Pilotage experience or vessel handling specialism
• Previous experience as Master or OOW on a commercial vessel
• Knowledge of port operations and emergency planning
• BRM training

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