ONS Operator

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We’re the UK's largest ports operator with a network of 21 ports around Britain. We handle around one quarter of the UK's seaborne trade and contribute £7.5 billion to our economy every year.

It’s a story we’re proud of but it doesn’t end there.

We’re transforming our business and embracing the future.

We offer a vast range of roles spanning the UK, all rooted in a culture that welcomes diversity, fosters talent, encourages internal movement and progression, and places safety as our number one priority.

We are looking for an ONS Operator to run the LPS and Lock function within the Port of Ipswich and to remotely support the marine function in Kings Lynn.

• Maintain Local Port Services functions at Ipswich including
• 24hr port VHF radio and port ‘front desk’ telephone cover
• Arrange Pilotage, towage, mooring and pilotage transport as required.
• Safely operate the Ipswich Lock
• Management and record keeping of vessel activities.
• Record keeping of port documents (paper and electronic), including data input to PAVIS for billing functions and CERS3 compliance.
• Issue of ABP permissions forms for activities on ABP berths. Ensure such activities are suitably promulgated to relevant port users to ensure compliance with the relevant permissions.
• Report unsafe practices, damages, or potentially dangerous situations to HM or Deputy to initiate appropriate response.
• Liaise with ABP staff, contractors, vessel agents, owners, operators and customers for provision of port services (pilotage, linesmen, watering and for vessel specific and other port related requirements.
• Safe operation of Ipswich Swing Bridge (giving consideration to the safety of vessels/craft, and road users/pedestrians), in accordance with Procedures.
• Monitor and advise on vessel movements within Harbour area and in Port approaches to ensure safe and efficient use of port facilities.
• Delegated authority for issue of Special Directions on behalf of Harbour Master.
• First point of contact for Emergency Response requirements, for potential initiation of port emergency plans and procedures (subject to instructions from Harbour Master or Deputy). Liaise with emergency services for incident response on port estate areas and adjoining land/areas
• Compliance with Safety Management Systems and company Health and Safety requirements/directives.
• Assist with training and familiarisation of new staff.
• Ability to work on a rostered 12-hour shift pattern which includes unsociable hours.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Knowledge of mandatory, regulatory and safety responsibilities relevant to the main duties
• A flexible and committed approach to working within a small team that strives to provide a high-quality Port and Marine service
• VHF Short Range Certificate
• LPS Qualification

Closing date for applications is 5th February 2026.

When joining ABP you will find an environment that is both welcoming and challenging. We reward our employees well and offer a generous remuneration package, employer pension, private health insurance and a range of other benefits.

Please note that ABP undertake random screening for substance abuse and operate a zero-tolerance policy. A medical will be required before starting this position also.

We are an equal opportunities employer and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their background, which helps us to provide a diverse and inclusive working environment.