Advert
ENTERPRISE AND SUSTAINABLE REGENERATION
Marine Services
Pier Master – Kirkwall / Hatston / Tingwall
37 hours per week within a 12-hour shift system
Permanent
£36,.29 - £37,.97 (including Shift Allowance, Contractual OT and Distant Islands Allowance)
Orkney Islands Council Marine Services is responsible for the operations at Kirkwall Harbour and the smaller ports of Scapa, Hatston and Tingwall. These dynamic environments support lifeline ferry services, cruise ships, commercial operations, and marine renewables, making them some of the most diverse and fast-moving port areas in Scotland.
We are looking for a proactive, decisive, and safety-conscious individual to join our team as a Pier Master. This role is not for those content with just maintaining the status quo—you will be expected to take ownership, challenge inefficiencies, and speak up when something isn’t right. Whether it’s upholding the highest safety standards, keeping operations running smoothly, or ensuring compliance with port regulations, you will play a key role in the continuous improvement of our busy harbour operations.
As part of your role, you will work under the Pier Operations Co-ordinator, assisting in enforcing safety management systems, emergency response, and operational procedures. You will also be responsible for security, stevedoring, weighbridge operations, and general pier maintenance.
We are seeking individuals with marine industry experience and a working knowledge of port operations. A strong presence within the port area will be essential, ensuring smooth, efficient, and safe operations while remaining adaptable to the demands of a constantly evolving environment. You should be confident in using Microsoft Office applications, and qualifications such as a forklift operator’s certificate, restricted VHF operator’s certificate are essential alongside the desirable skills of safety certification or pollution prevention experience.
This role offers an opportunity to be at the forefront of exciting new developments in Orkney. If you are someone who takes the initiative, holds high standards, and isn’t afraid to step forward when action is needed, I would like to hear from you.
You will work a 12-hour shift rota within a structured pattern alongside an already well-established team, alternating between day and night shifts, with a three-week block of leave every 12 weeks.
You should hold Restricted VHF Radio and Forklift truck operator’s licence.
You should be able to travel efficiently and effectively between work locations within Orkney to meet the operational requirements of the Service.
This post is subject to Basic Disclosure Scotland clearance.