
Careers
Pilot (Trainee)
About the Pilot (Trainee) role: In this role you will be responsible for supporting the Harbour Master in facilitating the safe and efficient handling of shipping and the safe and efficient conduct of navigation of vessels that require pilotage within the jurisdiction of the the Authority.
Role: Pilot (Trainee)
Location: Harbour Office, Neville House
Full-time, Permanent
About Us
Port of Tyne is one of the UK's most innovative and efficient deep-sea ports, situated on the North East coast and managing cargoes across five continents. We're committed to collaborating with all our customers, allowing us to push for innovative solutions, handle diverse cargoes, and offer unparalleled services.
Our colleagues are at the heart of all we do; we're looking for keen, enthusiastic people who share our values:
Open, Excellent, Respectful, Responsible.
Tyne 2050 is our ambitious long-term maritime strategy, in which we launched our National Maritime Innovation Hub, the first in the UK. Through it we aim to drive sustainable growth, regional collaboration, and generational jobs in the Northeast and beyond.
At the Port, we combine tradition with innovation, transforming challenges into opportunities and connections into partnerships. We’re passionate about helping our customers succeed, whilst ensuring our business is sustainable, enabling us to hand on the Port in a better condition to future generations.
Join us on this journey, where growth is not just a goal but our shared commitment.
Role Responsibilities:
- To comprehensively plan the passage of each vessel to be conducted including liaison with other operational team members.
- To discuss and agree the vessel’s passage plan with the Master using the Master/Pilot Exchange form and inform Tyne VTS of the agreed plan.
- To maintain communication with Tyne VTS whilst conducting the act of pilotage and comply with the Authority’s operational procedures.
- Monitor weather conditions and make recommendations to adjust ships passage plan and determine towage requirements as necessary.
- Communicate effectively with the ships’ crew and the port authority to coordinate safe and efficient ship movements in the river and approaches.
- To board and land from vessels by pilot launch and from the shore as appropriate.
- To act as the Authority’s representative on board.
- To complete Incident and Marine reports as appropriate and when requested by the Harbour Master and co-operate with any relevant investigations into marine incidents.
- To wear the appropriate personal protective equipment and clothing provided by the Authority.
- To assist with the training of new entrants and advise on their progress, ultimately to unlimited pilot.
- To undertake tasks not specifically referred to above but consistent with the role of Marine Pilot; for example, participation at meetings and on working groups and committees.
- Be part of and conduct risk assessments and make recommendations to mitigate navigational risks as part of the Port of Tyne marine management system.
- Respond to any navigational emergencies and provide guidance to the ship’s crew and the Port Authority to resolve the situation.
- Ensure that all navigational activities are conducted in accordance with relevant laws and regulations.
- Participate in regular training and development activities as part of the established CPD system to maintain and improve navigational skills.
- Prepare and maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all navigational activities as requested by the Harbour Authority.
Quality / Regulatory Compliance:
- Provide expert navigation guidance and assistance to ships entering and leaving the port.
- Participate in all activities required to maintain the Authorities compliance with the Port Marine Safety Code including but not limited to conducting risk assessments and make recommendations to mitigate navigational risks.
What we’re looking for:
Essential Experience:
- Extensive experience in marine operations and navigational procedures.
- Knowledge of the relevant laws and regulations pertaining to navigation, port operations and pilotage operations.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to make decisions under pressure and handle emergency situations.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Proven ability to represent an organisation professionally in various settings.
Essential Qualifications:
- Master Mariner Unlimited preferred, a Master Mariner limited, or a Chief Mate certificate will be considered if the candidate has served as a pilot for at least five years in a port of a similar nature
- Should hold a valid UK driving licence
- Should have a high standard of physical fitness and maintain a valid ENG1
Benefits
- Competitive salary
- 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
- An extra day off for your birthday
- Defined contribution pension scheme; we’ll match up to 5% during your probation and up to 7% on successful completion of your probations
- Life assurance plan; 2x your annual salary
- Health cash benefits plan; you can claim back costs for dental, optical, prescriptions and lots more. You can also access an Employee Assistance Programme and savings on high street stores, holidays and restaurants amongst many others.
- Personal training budget to help you develop in your role
- Counselling services available privately and via the Employee Assistance Programme
- On-site weekly physio services
- Long service awards
- Volunteer days every year
- Free annual flu jabs
- Profit Share Scheme: a percentage of the Port’s profits is shared equally with all employees annually.
- Colleague engagement: fun activities throughout the year, from friendly competitions to taking part in wellbeing awareness days and signing up for a hike with your colleagues!
- Plus, the basics: branded uniform, on-site parking including electric charging points, free tea and coffee, and multiple kitchens throughout the Port, which are fully equipped for your use.
Ready to apply?
Great, all you need to do now is upload a CV. If you would prefer a chat about the role, please contact us.