Bridge Operative (Full Time)

New Start; Whitby; Hybrid; GBP 27,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual leave 28–34 days pro-rata

Local government pension

Salary sacrifice & discounts

Learning & development

Health & wellbeing support

Job summary

North Yorkshire Council is seeking a Bridge Operator for Whitby Harbour. The role involves monitoring and operating the swing bridge two hours around high water, with VHF communication and adherence to a three-week rota that includes weekends and night shifts.

Benefits include substantial holiday entitlement, a Local Government Pension scheme, salary sacrifice, and development opportunities. Apply to join a vital coastal service in Whitby.

Qualifications

• Experience of maritime operations
• Previous experience of general maintenance and cleaning duties
• Boating handling knowledge and skills
• Sound knowledge of Whitby harbour and Whitby area

Responsibilities

• Bridge opens/closes two hours either side of high water with a listening watch on VHF channels 11 and 16
• Support safe river traffic operations and keep accurate timings for openings
• Operate on a three-week rota, including weekends and night shifts with additional payments
• Maintain the bridge area and contribute to harbour activities as required

Skills

Maritime ops

Maintenance & cleaning

Boating handling

Whitby harbour knowledge

Job description

Jobs

Bridge Operative

More Information

Salary

£26,847 - £28,153 pro rata per

Expires

21/09/2026

Company

North Yorkshire Council

Location

Whitby, North Yorkshire

Job Type

Full Time

North Yorkshire Council is recruiting a new Bridge Operator to join the team delivering their vital service in Whitby Harbour.

About the Bridge:

Whitby Harbour Swing Bridge is a central and crucial part of Whitby's transport links whether it be by river or by road. The current swing bridge was built in 1908. It links the upper and lower harbour areas and the east and west sides of the town. The bridge spans 75ft and each section can be operated independently swinging horizontally. Its iconic operation draws visitors and allows Whitby port to remain functional.

The Role:

The bridge is manned for two hours either side of high water. While on duty the bridge operatives maintain a listening watch on VHF channels 11 and 16.

The first opening will be as soon as practical two hours before high water. The final opening will be 10 minutes prior to two hours after high water.

The Harbour Authority's Bridge Operators are on hand to open and close the bridge for river traffic two hours either side of high tide, all year round.

The role has a three-week rota which allows for variety and rotation of weekend working, with additional payments for night and weekend work.

What you can bring:

• Experience of maritime operations either on a professional or leisure basis
• Previous experience of general maintenance and cleaning duties
• Boating handling knowledge and skills
• A sound knowledge of Whitby harbour and of the Whitby area in general

What We Offer:

• Our holiday entitlement starts at 28 days rising to 34 days (pro-rata) per year with continued service, plus public holidays
• Pension: save for your retirement with our generous local government pension scheme
• salary sacrifice, employee cash back and discounts schemes
• Learning, development and career advancement opportunities
• Health Assured – confidential help and support for your wellbeing

For full details, please see out Total Rewards Brochure at the bottom of this advert

Contact:

For additional information, or an informal chat about the role please contact the Harbour Office in Whitby on 01947 602354, or email James Buck ([e-mail])

Key dates:

Closing date: 21 September 2026

Interview Dates: w/c 28 September 2026

Venue for Interview: Whitby Harbour Office

Key documents:

Job Description

Total Rewards Brochure

Company: North Yorkshire Council

Salary: £26,847 - £28,153 pro rata per

Location: Whitby, North Yorkshire

Sector: Public and Third sector

Job Role: Operative