Harbour Service Deckhand *12 Months Fixed Term Contract*

Department: Harbour Master Department

Reporting to: HM Operations Manager

Grade: 10

Salary: £40,553.75 per annum (inclusive of a 10% operational allowance and a 15% shift allowance, base pay is £32,443)

Contract Type: Fixed term for 12 months, with the potential of an extension.

Working pattern: This role is shift based, working an average of 35 hours per week

Base: Unity House, Woolwich

Closing date: 21st May 2026 (We may close this vacancy early if sufficient applications are received ahead of the closing date.)

Interview date: 29th May 2026

Who we are:

We are the UK’s biggest port, central to the country’s economy and ambitions for growth. We connect the UK to the world, but we are much more than a conventional port.

We are driven by our purpose to protect and improve the 95-mile stretch of the River Thames which is tidal – from Teddington Lock on the border of Surrey, through the heart of London, Kent, Essex and out to the North Sea.

The role:

The Port of London Authority (PLA) is recruiting a Harbour Service Deckhand for the Middle district, operating from our district base at Unity House, Woolwich. This exciting role puts you at the heart of our operations on the river. The Middle district covers from Putney to Crossness.

Our Harbour Service Launches ensure the safety of navigation on the Thames through routine patrols, monitoring river works and vessels, responding to incidents, and enforcing regulations. As part of the Chief Harbour Master’s department, you will be a key presence on the river, working closely with Harbour Masters and other departments across the PLA to maintain a safe and efficient waterway.

You will serve aboard the launch alongside a Marine River Inspector (MRI), who will supervise you and command the vessel.

Key responsibilities:

A Harbour Service Deckhand duties include:

• Performing maintenance and safety checks on the vessel's hull, deck, engine room, and life-saving equipment to ensure operational efficiency.

• Maintaining a safe, clean working environment and ensuring the vessel is securely moored.

• Adhering to health and safety policies, including the use of personal protective equipment.

• Assisting with de-icing in freezing conditions and ensuring safe access.

• Operating and controlling small craft (under 24m), plant equipment, and hand tools.

• Participating in pollution control, towing, mooring, and personnel transfers.

• Assisting in bunkering operations, maintaining inventory, and supporting the training of new deckhands.

• Participating in emergency exercises, safety briefings, and performing general duties at locations like Richmond Lock, Barrier Gardens Pier, and others.

• Performing maintenance of PLA craft, buoys, and related equipment, along with loading and unloading cargo.

This role also involves delivering items, supporting various departments, and ensuring KPIs are met.

What we are looking for:

Essential:

• RYA Powerboat Level 2 (Commercially Endorsed) (or above)

• Valid ML5/ENG1 medical certificate

• Fluent English language skills

Desirable:

• Hold a Thames Local Knowledge Endorsement (LKE) or be willing and able to obtain this.

• Exhibit professional conduct when interacting with colleagues, stakeholders, contractors, third parties, and the public.

• Be flexible, as the role may occasionally require working in other areas of the Thames.

• Be self-motivated, autonomous, and capable of using initiative, while also thriving in a team environment.

In return, we offer a competitive benefits package:

• 28 days annual leave (plus Bank Holidays)· Medical Cash Plan (Westfield Health)

• Generous pension - up to 14% employer contribution

• Employee Assistance Programme and access to Wellbeing Resources

• Discounted gym memberships and cycle to work scheme

• Salary sacrifice car scheme (Tusker Cars)

• Reward and recognition portal, with access to a range of discounts

To discuss this role or if you have any questions, please contact Samuel Dawkins (HM Marine Operations Manager) at samuel.dawkins@pla.co.uk

The PLA are not registered with the UK Home Office and do not sponsor candidates who require a visa or work permit to work in the UK, therefore an offer of employment cannot be made unless you currently hold the rights to live and work in the UK.