Assistant Harbour Master

Associated British Ports; Southampton; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remuneration package

Employer pension

Private health insurance

Other benefits

Job summary

Associated British Ports is seeking an experienced maritime professional for the role of Assistant Harbour Master (VTS) in Southampton. You will oversee safe navigation, coordinate marine operations, and support a world-class Vessel Traffic Service while upholding safety and regulatory standards.

Reporting to the Deputy Harbour Master, you will lead vessel movement plans, manage pilot operations, and liaise with MCA, agents, masters, and terminal operators to ensure efficient port operations.

Qualifications

• Extensive maritime leadership experience.
• Strong knowledge of Port Marine Safety Code and MCA guidance.
• Proven ability to manage complex operations in a live port environment.
• Experience with vessel traffic service environments.

Responsibilities

• Support the safe navigation of all vessels within the Southampton harbour area.
• Lead the delivery of vessel traffic management plans and coordinate safe and efficient vessel movements.
• Coordinate pilot allocation and pilot transfer operations.
• Provide initial response during marine incidents and emergencies.
• Maintain compliance with MCA, IALA and Port Marine Safety Code requirements.

Skills

Maritime leadership

VTS operations

Harbor safety

Stakeholder communication

Decision making

Education

STCW A-II/2 seagoing

VTS qualification (Supervisor endorsement)

Port Marine Safety Code knowledge

Tools

VTS software

Navigation systems

Job description

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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.

Location: Southampton
Reporting to: Deputy Harbour Master
Function: Marine

Closing Date: 12th August 2026

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced maritime professional looking to further develop their leadership career within one of the UK's busiest and most strategically important ports. The role offers the chance to play a key part in ensuring the safe and efficient movement of vessels throughout Southampton's Statutory Harbour Authority and Competent Harbour Authority areas, while supporting the delivery of a world-class Vessel Traffic Service (VTS).

About the Role

As Assistant Harbour Master (VTS), you will be responsible for supporting the safe navigation of vessels, coordinating marine operations, protecting the marine environment, and helping to ensure the continued delivery of an efficient and professional VTS service.

Operating within one of Europe's busiest waterways, you will work closely with colleagues across Port Marine Operations, Safety & Security, Maintenance, and external stakeholders including the MCA, shipping agents, vessel masters, terminal operators, emergency services and wider marine service providers.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the safe navigation of all vessels within the Southampton harbour area.
• Exercise Harbour Master's Powers of Direction when required to maintain safety.
• Lead the delivery of vessel traffic management plans and coordinate safe and efficient vessel movements.
• Oversee the safe movement of dangerous cargoes through the port.
• Support the performance and effectiveness of VTS operations and Aids to Navigation.
• Coordinate pilot allocation and pilot transfer operations.
• Contribute to the management of patrol and pilot launch services.
• Provide an initial response during marine incidents and emergencies.
• Maintain professional standards and compliance with MCA, IALA and Port Marine Safety Code requirements.
• Provide leadership and direction to on-watch VTS and marine operational personnel.
• Support wider marine projects and operational initiatives as required.

About You

We're looking for an experienced maritime professional with strong operational knowledge and proven leadership capability.

• Strong marine background with demonstrable leadership experience.
• Sound knowledge of the Port Marine Safety Code and marine operational best practice.
• Ability to make effective decisions in a fast-paced operational environment.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

Desirable qualifications and experience:

• C0103-1 VTS qualification (Supervisor endorsement) or willingness to undertake training.
• STCW A-II/2 seagoing certification or equivalent maritime competence.
• PEC or local endorsements / knowledge of the Southampton area and Solent

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.

• generous remuneration package
• employer pension
• private health insurance
• 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.