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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.
Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) Operator
Location: Southampton
Company: Associated British Ports (ABP)
Closing Date: 27th July 2026
Find out more about us: ABP Marine | Videos & Movies on Vimeo
Are you ready to play a pivotal role in keeping one of the UK’s busiest ports safe, efficient, and thriving? Associated British Ports (ABP) is seeking a dynamic and flexible individual to join our Southampton team as a Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) Operator.
About the Role
As a VTS Operator, you’ll be at the heart of marine operations, ensuring the safe and efficient navigation of vessels within the VTS area. Working closely with the Assistant Harbour Master (VTS), you’ll monitor vessel movements using radar, AIS, CCTV, and VHF, and provide vital support to Marine Planning and port stakeholders.
What You’ll Do
- Monitor and manage vessel traffic to maintain safety and protect the environment
- Liaise with ships, pilots, agents, and port users to coordinate vessel movements
- Input and validate information in the Port Management Information Service (PMIS)
- Respond to enquiries from customers, officials, and stakeholders
- Proactively identify and address unusual or potentially dangerous situations
- Support the allocation of pilots and monitor pilot launches and boarding conditions
- Carry out essential administration for the VTS and Marine Department
- Undertake ongoing training to maintain national VTS standards
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What We’re Looking For
Essential:
- Appropriate marine background / Qualifications as defined by MCA MGN 434 to enable the pre-requisite standard to be met for entry to a C0103-1 VTS operators’ course.
- Excellent IT and administration skills
- Clear, concise communicator able to liaise at all levels
- Strong decision-making skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure
- Team player with initiative and the confidence to take command when needed
- Willingness to work shifts and demonstrate flexibility in duties and hours
- Reside within approx. 1 hour of the port or be willing to relocate
Desirable:
- Current C0103-1 VTS qualifications (C0103-1 & C0103-3)
- Knowledge of the Central, Eastern Solent, and Southampton Water
Why Join ABP?
- Be part of a supportive and professional marine team
- Work in a dynamic environment at the forefront of UK port operations
- Enjoy opportunities for professional development and training
- Enjoy a number of company benefits, including:
- Private medical insurance
- Dental plan
- ULEV / EV Car Scheme
- Cycle2Work scheme
- Life Assurance
- All employee annual bonus scheme
- Company rewards and discounts
If you’re ready to make a difference in the maritime industry and have the qualifications and drive we’re looking for, we’d love to hear from you!
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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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