Cargo Operative
Job Title: Cargo Operative
Location: Port of Tilbury
Hours: 35 hours Mon to Friday (06:00 – 14:00 / 14:00 – 22:00) with overtime available across weekends
Compensation: £40,749 per annum
Forth Ports is one of the UK's largest and most dynamic port operator groups, playing a key role in connecting the UK with Europe and beyond. As a multimodal ports owner and operator, we are at the forefront of delivering innovative port-related services. With our recent pledge to achieve carbon neutrality by 2032 and Net Zero status by 2042, we are committed to sustainability and driving the expansion of the UK's renewable energy sector, particularly offshore wind. Now is an exciting time to join our team as we embark on this transformative journey towards a greener future.
About the role
About the role
The Conventional Asset specialises and not limited to the handling Forest Products, New & Used vehicles, Construction Materials, RORO traffic, LOLO traffic, Project/General Cargo specialised lifts and steel. The Asset has the knowledge and skillset to handle a wide variety of cargoes safely and efficiently with a proven track record in delivering validated its long-term extensive customer base.
As a Cargo Operative for Conventional and Tilbury 2 at the Port of Tilbury, you are responsible for the safe and efficient handling of cargo using specialist plant and equipment. You will load and discharge vessels while maintaining the highest standards of safety and precision.
Cargo Operatives will be expected to participate in additional duties which could include other Assets if required.
The priority at all times is to ensure that our customers are provided with a fast, efficient and accurate service which meets their business needs whilst following all appropriate Health & Safety procedures.
Key Responsibilities
To safely perform stevedoring activities to achieve required levels of productivity
To handle cargo and equipment with care at all times to minimise damages and maintain a Health & Safety focus
Carefully adhere to all pre-shift briefings. Carry out a pre-shift check on the plant required to drive. Report immediately any change, defects, breakdowns or accidents to Operations supervisors and management
Carry out all warehousing tasks efficiently, ensuring stock is stored in an organized manner with accurate records maintained for effective stock control. Maintain a high standard of cleanliness and organization within the warehouse, ensuring housekeeping is regularly performed and consistently upheld
Undertake all training as required. Cargo Operatives with good plant skills and good flexibility may be selected for crane training
When not handling cargo, undertake housekeeping duties as required. This will involve painting, weeding and general maintenance work
Any other duties as required
What we’re looking for
We’re looking for a safety-focused and reliable individual with a strong work ethic and a proactive approach. You’ll be comfortable working in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment, with the flexibility to support a range of cargo operations.
A team-oriented mindset, attention to detail, and the ability to follow procedures are essential. Experience operating plant equipment is highly desirable, along with a willingness to learn and develop new skills. Above all, you’ll take pride in delivering safe, efficient, and high-quality work.
Qualifications & Skills
A full driving licence, valid in the UK and forklift truck licence
A commitment to maintaining and promoting a safe working environment
Proven experience in shift work and the operation of plant machinery, particularly in a port or industrial setting
Ideally, a strong understanding of load handling and safety practices
Ability to perform manual handling tasks in varying weather conditions
Strong communication skills and a team-oriented approach are essential for smooth port operations
Relevant certifications for operating a variety of plant equipment are desirable (for example, MEWP certification)
What Forth Ports can offer you:
At Forth Ports, our people are our priority, and we are committed to creating a flexible, open, and supportive working culture. As part of our team, you will enjoy
A competitive salary
Group Bonus
Generous annual leave entitlement of 34 days including bank holidays
Defined contribution pension scheme with up to 16.5% joint contribution plus life assurance at 4x salary
Health promotion events and employee wellbeing initiatives to support your physical and mental wellbeing
Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) providing free, confidential 24/7 telephone support for you and your family
On-site Occupational Health Team with access to professional support and referrals to services such as counselling, physiotherapy and free flu jabs
An annual Christmas thank you gift of a complimentary turkey or meat-free alternative for all employees
GymFlex health club memberships offering discounted access to gyms including Nuffield Health, PureGym, Anytime Fitness, The Gym Group, and selected local gyms
Cycle to Work scheme to support affordable, sustainable commuting
On-site free parking available for all employees
Attractive family-friendly policies, including enhanced maternity cover
Employee discount platform providing savings on UK-wide restaurants, retail, car rentals, days out, and holidays
We value diversity and inclusivity, and we are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and will consider all applications for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability status.
How to Apply
If you are a reliable individual looking for your next challenge, we welcome your application. Please submit your CV and a cover letter when submitting your application via the ‘Apply Now’ link.
What you will need
Required criteria
- A full driving licence, valid in the UK and forklift truck licence
- Proven experience in shift work and the operation of plant machinery, particularly in a port or industrial setting
Forth Ports Group
Over our 50 years of experience we have witnessed our ports grow to become important assets to support and deliver growth both for the UK and local economies. The growth impact has been achieved due to the continued investments in our infrastructure, making sure that our ports are able to continually develop their services and support the growth of many industries. Our people have played a significant role. They have delivered the highest quality of service through their expertise, loyalty and flexibility and, without them, we could not have built the strong reputation and the long term agreements with many customers that we have today.
Welcome to Forth Ports Careers. As a leading port operator, we employ over 1,100 people across our ports in Scotland and the Port of Tilbury in London. A career in a port business is very rewarding. There is real variety within each role and significant opportunities for promotion and career development. Don’t just take our word for it; view the “Some of our People” section and the video below to gain insight into the kinds of jobs our employees do, how they’ve grown with us, and what motivates them each day. The port business can be seen as a barometer for the economy and this drives us to be adaptable and fast paced as we identify new business opportunities.
Our benefits
We are committed to creating a positive working culture for all employees, as well as a good work-life balance. Here are just some of the benefits of working for Forth Ports.
Vacation, Paid time off
Paid sick days
Retirement plan and/or pension
Employee discounts
Gym membership or wellness programs
Cycle to work
Competitive salary
Employee Assistance Scheme
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