Temporary Relief-Assistant Coxwain

Temporary Relief-Assistant Coxswain

Position of Pilot Boat Temporary Assistant Coxswain is a 3‑month temporary role requiring high flexibility. The incumbent will adapt to varying work schedules and cover for absences on short notice.

This is a varied role where technical skills are important, but we seek someone with a can‑do attitude, strong team ethos, and the aptitude to work effectively under pressure in challenging environments. The successful candidate will be flexible, committed to using their skills to assist in the smooth running of Port Operations, and will share command time of the pilot boat equally when paired with a deckhand or working alongside a Coxswain or Assistant Coxswain.

Responsibilities also include assisting with planned maintenance tasks, supporting the Vessel Traffic Service (VTS), and helping deliver essential marine services on a 24/7 basis.

• Job reference: REQ
  000061
• Date posted: 26/02/2026
• Final date to receive applications: 09/03/2026
• Location:
  
  Belfast Harbour Estate
• Salary:
  Blank
• Package:
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• Contractual hours:
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• Basis:
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• Job category/type:
  Port Operations

• Coxswain in command of a Pilot Boat, safely and efficiently transporting pilots to and from ships.
• Assist with planned maintenance and upkeep tasks.
• Responsible for daily maintenance, record‑keeping, and housekeeping of the Pilot Boats.
• Provide assistance to the VTS in the provision of administrative and operational support.
• Take responsibility for safety by reporting incidents, near misses, and unsafe acts around the harbour.

• MCA Boat Master’s Licence or equivalent valid for vessels up to 24 metres in length.
• At least one of the following commercially endorsed certificates of competency:
  • MCA Boat Master’s Licence
  • STCW Master (Workboat < 500GT unlimited area)
  • STCW Master (Code Vessels < 200GT unlimited area)
  • RYA/MCA Yacht master Ocean (Power)
  • STCW Master (Code Vessels < 200GT)
  • RYA Yacht master Offshore (Power)
  • RYA/MCA Powerboat Advanced
• Full clean Driving Licence
• ENG1 or ML5 medical certificate
• Radio certificate (RYA SRC, GMDSS ROC or GOC)
• Key leadership and teamwork qualities.
• Positive attitude regarding flexibility and customer service.
• Aptitude for maintenance tasks.
• Understanding of compliance standards as part of the Workboat Code.
• Effective communication skills, orally and in writing.
• Competent boat handling skills; knowledge of harbour and shipping environment.
• Confidence in working on or near water.
• Understanding of regulatory framework and health & safety legislation.
• Ability to implement and review risk assessments.
• Appropriate level of computer literacy.
• Capability to climb quayside, beacon ladders, and pilot ladders.
• Must hold an ML5 or ENG1 equivalent/higher medical certificate.
• Capability to operate in exposed environments during all seasons and inclement weather conditions.

This job description is non‑restrictive and will be amended as appropriate to suit the needs of Belfast Harbour Commissioners.

Please see the attached full job and person specification for more details. To be considered for this role, you will be redirected to and must complete the application process on our careers page. To start the process, click the Apply button below to Login/Register.