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.
Where are they based?
This apprenticeship is based in Teignmouth
What’s it all about?
This Port Operative Apprenticeship gives you the chance to become a key part of our cargo‑handling and port operations team, learning hands‑on skills that keep the port running safely and efficiently every day. You’ll gain experience across a wide range of operational activities from supporting stevedoring and preparing cargo, to operating machinery such as forklifts, loading shovels, skidsteers, tugmasters and mobile lifting equipment.
Safety is at the heart of everything we do, so you’ll be involved in risk assessments, safe systems of work and toolbox talk, helping to maintain a safe working environment for yourself and your colleagues.
You’ll also support basic maintenance tasks, housekeeping standards, and assist with mooring and traffic operations when required, giving you a rounded understanding of how a busy port operates. This is a practical, varied and rewarding apprenticeship that equips you with the skills, knowledge and experience to build a long‑term career in port operations.
What are the career opportunities?
By completing the Port Operative apprenticeship, you will gain experience in safe working practices, risk assessments, and a wide range of cargo‑handling operations including operating machinery such as loading shovels, forklifts, skidsteers, mobile lifting platforms, cranes, tugmasters and bagging equipment while supporting stevedoring, general port operations, basic maintenance, housekeeping, stores preparation, and mooring/unmooring activities, giving them a strong foundation to progress into fully qualified Port Operative roles and future development across cargo handling, marine operations, plant operation, or supervisory pathways.
How long does it take?
The Port Operative apprenticeship is a 12‑month learning programme, but ABP will employ apprentices on an 18‑month contract as part of the full 18‑month ABP programme. You may be required to travel to Plymouth for college attendance.
What are the entry requirements?
- GCSEs at grade 5/D or above which must include English and Maths
- A keen interest in the marine/port industry
- Able to use initiative and take ownership for own performance
- Strives to achieve the best results with a talent for problem-solving
- Resilience, with the ability to maintain a positive attitude when working under pressure
- Strong team-working and leadership abilities
- Excellent communication skills
- A proactive attitude to health & safety management and incident prevention
- A full driving license
Additional Information:
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.
As part of our recruitment process, all successful candidates will be subject to pre-employment screening to Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). Please note your consent will be required and further information on this check can be found using the following link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/united-kingdom-security-vetting-clearance-levels/national-security-vetting-clearance-levels
