Apprentice Marina Operative (Ipswich, Short Sea Ports, GB)

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.

Where are they based? This apprenticeship is based in Ipswich. What it’s all about?As an island nation, the UK’s marinas and ports are vital to supporting the leisure marine industry, which plays an essential role in both the national and international economy. Marinas provide moorings, berthing, and essential services for vessels, supporting yachting and boating communities. At Associated British Ports (ABP), our marina teams are responsible for delivering safe, efficient, and high-quality operations, ensuring the smooth handling and movement of vessels in and out of the marina.

As a Marina Operative, you’ll be at the heart of our marina operations. Your role will involve tasks such as assisting with vessel handling, including launching, lifting, high-pressure washing, and safe storage. You’ll also oversee berthing and vessel movements, ensuring that every operation is conducted safely and in accordance with relevant legislation and company policy.

In this hands-on role, you’ll perform regular maintenance around the marina, looking after facilities like pontoons, storage areas, and public spaces. You’ll also engage with a wide range of people, including customers, contractors, and visitors, providing exceptional service in a professional and approachable manner.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to work in a dynamic and thriving maritime environment. You’ll gain a deep understanding of marina operations and develop valuable skills in vessel handling, safety, and customer service. At ABP, we’re committed to fostering a safe and efficient marina experience, and we’re looking for motivated individuals to join our team and help us continue setting the standard in the marine industry.

What are the career opportunities? This apprenticeship could lead to specialist and senior roles within the port industry including: Berthing Master, Assistant Harbour Master, Assistant Dock Master, Hydrographer, Vessel Traffic Services and roles in port management. How long does it take? This apprenticeship involves rigorous and substantial training up to 18 months. Attendance at college may be required occasionally. What are the entry requirements? • 5 GCSEs at grade 3/D or above which must include English and Maths • A keen interest in the marine/port industry • Able to use initiative and take ownership for own performance • Strives to achieve the best results with a talent for problem-solving • Resilience, with the ability to maintain a positive attitude when working under pressure • Strong team-working and leadership abilities • Excellent communication skills • A proactive attitude to health & safety management and incident prevention • A full driving licence Further information can be found here: https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/marina-and-boatyard-operative-v1-0

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