Deckhand Band 1

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.

Deckhand

Location: Southampton
Organisation: Associated British Ports (ABP)

Closing Date: 5th May 2026

Associated British Ports (ABP) is the UK’s largest and leading ports operator, playing a vital role in supporting the nation’s trade and economic growth. We are now looking to recruit a Deckhand to join our Marine team in Southampton, supporting safe and efficient port operations across Southampton Water and the Solent.

The Role

This is a varied, hands-on marine role where you’ll primarily crew the Port’s launches, working as a Southampton Patrol Deckhand, with the opportunity and aspiration to progress towards a Coxswain role in the future.

Working closely with the Coxswain, you’ll support the delivery of launch services and assist the Harbour Authority in meeting its statutory duties, operating across Southampton Water and the wider Solent area. The role is shift based:  2 day shifts followed by 2 nights (12 hour shifts) then 4 days off, repeated for 5 blocks and then 14 days rostered leave.

Key Responsibilities

In this role, you will:

• Assist the Coxswain in launch operations, maintaining a good lookout and carrying out navigational duties while at sea
• Support the safe transfer of authorised persons and Pilots in line with Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) requirements
• Ensure vessels are maintained in a safe, seaworthy and clean condition, including reporting and logging any defects
• Carry out routine vessel checks (daily, weekly and monthly) and assist with minor maintenance
• Check pilot ladders, lifesaving appliances and working equipment prior to use
• Monitor bilges, watertight compartments and fuel, water and AdBlue levels
• Maintain berths and quay areas in a clean and tidy condition
• Undertake other reasonable duties within your capability that support the Marine operation

About You

We’re looking for someone practical, reliable and safety‑focused, who enjoys working as part of a close‑knit marine team. You’ll be comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions and have a genuine interest in building a long‑term career within Marine Services.

Essential Skills, Experience and Qualifications

You will hold, or be willing to obtain, the following:

• RYA Powerboat Level 2 (minimum)
• First Aid, Fire Fighting, VHF and Personal Sea Survival Training (PST)
• Valid ENG1 and/or ABP Marine Medical
• Working knowledge of Southampton Water and the Central and Eastern Solent
• Full UK driving licence
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, with experience dealing with the public
• A strong team‑player mindset and a willingness to learn and progress

What We Offer

At ABP, we offer a supportive working environment with opportunities for development and progression within the Marine team. You’ll play a key role in the safe and efficient running of one of the UK’s busiest ports, with access to specialist training and development as part of your career journey.

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