Pilot Vessel Coxswain

**Job Title**: Pilot Vessel Coxswain

**Location**: Port of Leith

**Compensation**:Salary - £33,896, Shift allowance - £6,767

**Hours**:2 days, 2 nights (0600-1800, 1800-0600) 4 days off for 7 rotations. Followed by 18 days off.

Forth Ports is one of the UK's largest and most dynamic port operator groups, playing a key role in connecting the UK with Europe and beyond. As a multimodal ports owner and operator, we are at the forefront of delivering innovative port-related services. With our recent pledge to achieve carbon neutrality by 2032 and Net Zero status by 2042, we are committed to sustainability and driving the expansion of the UK's renewable energy sector, particularly offshore wind. Now is an exciting time to join our team as we embark on this transformative journey towards a greener future.

**About The Role**

This role is part of a dedicated shift team responsible for maintaining 24-hour coverage at the pilot station. The primary function is to assist in the safe and efficient transfer of pilots to and from vessels navigating the estuary. During night shifts, when a Duty Pilot is not present, crew members also provide essential operational support within the Pilotage Operations Room. All activities are carried out in accordance with relevant health and safety legislation and company policies, ensuring continuous, compliant service delivery within a safety-critical marine environment.

**Key responsibilities**:

- Comply with all relevant IMO regulations and company bye-laws while at sea, maintaining appropriate lookout, especially in reduced visibility.
- Conduct pre-departure checks on the duty boat to ensure all equipment and supplies are present and operational.
- Carry out planned maintenance or repairs and report any minor defects or faults to the Duty Engineer or Duty Coxswain, recording them in the vessel logbook where appropriate.
- Perform scheduled security and fire patrols of vessels and the watch house.
- Clean both the interior and exterior of the vessel to ensure high standards of cleanliness.
- Maintain cleanliness and order at the pilot station and surrounding areas, ensuring all access points remain unobstructed.
- Keep the pilot station crew room clean and orderly at all times.
- Secure vessel keys and maintain the security of each pilot vessel after use.
- When assigned as second coxswain on night duty, carry out responsibilities in the Pilotage Operations Room, including:

- Receiving ship movement orders and recording them accurately.
- Updating the Pilots Turn Register and VDB with movement details.
- Coordinating pilot transport and assigning pilots to vessels in line with procedures.
- Maintaining communication with FTNS and the duty Assistant Harbour Master.
- Seeking guidance from the on-shift pilot or next pilot on turn when needed.

**What are we looking for?**

**Skills & Qualifications**:

- Possession of one or more of the following maritime qualifications:

- STCW Master Certificate
- RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competence
- RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competence or Service
- MCA Boatmasters’ Licence
- RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Coastal Certificate of Competence or Service
- RYA/MCA Powerboat Advanced Certificate of Competence
- RYA/MCA Powerboat Advanced Practical Certificate
- Certificate of Competency for the relevant operational area, issued by a recognised authority
- Completion of relevant safety and survival training, such as:

- RYA Basic Sea Survival or MCA-approved Personal Survival Techniques
- First Aid Training
- Fire Fighting Training
- Additional training or experience in:

- Radar operation
- Vessel stability
- Electronic chart systems
- Familiarity with maritime safety regulations and operational procedures.
- Ability to follow protocols and maintain compliance with safety standards.
- Competence in using marine communication systems and logging/reporting tools.
- Strong situational awareness and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
- Attention to detail and commitment to high standards of cleanliness and security.
- Effective team player with the ability to work independently during night shifts.
- Willingness to undertake and maintain required certifications (e.g., first aid, safety training).
- A good working knowledge of the River Forth is preferred.
- Possession of a valid Advanced Powerboat Certificate or Boatmaster’s Licence is desirable.
- Full right to work in the UK
- Full UK driving licence

**What Forth Ports can offer you**:
At Forth Ports, our people are our priority, and we are committed to creating a flexible, open, and supportive working culture. As part of our team, you will enjoy:

- A competitive salary
- A defined pension scheme and life assurance
- Health promotion events and employee wellbeing initiatives
- Access to our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for you and your family
- Cycle to work scheme and on-site free parking
- Attractive Family Friendly Policies
- Employee discount platform of