Job details
Job reference: REQ000081 Date posted: 01/10/2026 Application closing date: 15/10/2026 Location: Belfast Harbour Estate Salary: Blank Package: Blank Contractual hours: 40Basis: Full TimeJob category/type: Port Operations
Assistant Harbour Master
Role Purpose
The role of Assistant Harbour Master is a key operational leadership role with responsibility for overseeing the safe and efficient day-to-day movement of shipping and the delivery of marine and land-based services across the Harbour.
You will lead and coordinate shipping movements and associated marine services, ensuring operations are carried out safely and effectively and in line with all relevant legal, regulatory and Port Marine Safety Code (PMSC) requirements. You will also oversee port conservancy, navigation, marine and land-based safety, and emergency requirements, working closely with colleagues across BHC and external marine service providers.
Building strong working relationships will be central to the role, ensuring the services that support vessel movements are effectively coordinated while maintaining the highest standards of safety and customer service.
As a senior member of the marine team, you will also deputise for the Harbour Master when required, exercising delegated authority and providing leadership and operational decision-making in their absence.
Key Responsiblities
- Leading Shipping & Port Operations
- Championing Safety & Compliance
- Delivering Excellent Customer Service
- Managing Marine & Land-Based Services
- Supporting the Leadership of Port Operations
- Coordinating Shipping Operations
- Leading VTS & Pilotage Services
- Building Strong External Relationships
- Developing Your Professional Expertise
Eligibility Criteria:
- Class 1 Master’s Certificate of Competency (or equivalent) (Preferred)
- Class 2 Chief Mate Certificate of Competency or an OOW certificate will also be considered
- A C103/1 certificate will be accepted where it is accompanied by evidence of at least three years of relevant operational experience gained within the five years immediately preceding the application.
- Current full clean driving licence
Key Criteria:
- Experience of, or an aptitude for, managing customer relationships
- Able to collaborate with teams across the organisation
- Knowledge and experience of advanced safety management procedures
- Adaptive and inclusive leadership skills, acting with honesty and integrity
- The ability to motivate and coach individuals and teams
- Planning and organisational skills
- Confident, skilled and respectful communicator (both written and oral).
- Able to command respect from professional peers, and a wide range of third-party relationships through developing trust-based relationships.
- Responsible leadership, prioritising safety across Belfast Harbour and committing to our sustainable practices.
Desirable Criteria:
- At least 3 years’ experience in a relevant shore-based environment
- UKHMA Harbour Master’s Certificate
- Familiarity with the management of logistics
- Strong understanding and commitment to delivering against customer needs and requirements
- Positive approach to change management and problem solving
- Familiarity with quality management systems
- Evidence of continued professional development
- Track record of delivering the highest standard of service
- Computer Literacy.
Want to find out more?
Please refer to the attached Job Description and Person Specification for full details of the role, key responsibilities and the essential and desirable criteria.
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