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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.
Role: Marine Pilot
Contract Type: Zero-hours contract
Remuneration: Paid per pilotage act
Closing Date: 27th July 2026
We are recruiting for a Pilot to join the team based at the Port of Lowestoft. This is a zero-hours contract offering flexible working arrangements to support operational demand at the Port of Lowestoft. Payment is made per pilotage act, providing an excellent opportunity for experienced marine professionals looking for flexible work within a busy and growing port environment.
We offer an inclusive work environment and access to ongoing training and development opportunities to support the maintenance of pilot authorisations and professional standards.
You will be responsible for the safe pilotage of vessels from the point of embarkation to disembarkation within the competent harbour authority area (CHA).
With the support of our Pilots, the Port of Lowestoft handles around 30,000 tonnes of cargo per year and together with ABP's other two East Anglian ports, King’s Lynn and Ipswich, contributes £360 million to the economy and support 5,300 jobs. Lowestoft has emerged as a growing centre for companies servicing the offshore energy industry!
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We offer a competitive salary and a range of great benefits – including private medical insurance, bonus scheme, an excellent contributory pension, access to our Employee Assistance Program and 27 days holiday plus bank holidays! We offer an inclusive work environment and have a very strong academy which offers ongoing training opportunities.
What you’ll be doing…
- Pilot vessels within ABP Lowestoft CHA area of jurisdiction.
- Growing your knowledge and understanding of the marine safety management systems, emergency procedures / plans and operational procedures.
- Assist and support the Marine Team in co-ordinating all Marine Operations to help maintain delivery of a high quality, safe and efficient marine service.
- Develop your skills and knowledge for continued authorisation as a marine pilot and undertake all training as required such as navigational training.
- Assist in the training of all pilots - including trainee and apprentice - and Pilotage Exemption Certificate holders, including assessments and examinations.
- Provide professional support to the Harbour Master on local navigational and other port marine issues when required.
What we're looking for…
- STCW II/2 Certificate of Competency – Master or Chief Officer; ; or time-served Marine Pilot apprenticeship.
- Previous pilotage and/or ship handling experience (preferably on vessels with tonnage range 500gt to 5000gt)
- Full UK driving licence or access to own transport.
- Fitness to ENG-1 standards.
- The ability to communicate, influence, and mentor.
- An appreciation of the Port Marine Safety Code.
- A flexible approach to working arrangements and service delivery.
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Ideally, you'll also have...
- Knowledge of/experience with various vessel propulsion and manoeuvring systems.
- Previous tug/barge experience
- Experience as vessel Master.
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 industries- 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
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