Job title: Thames Patrol Deckhand 12-month Fized Term Contract
Department: Harbour Master Department
Grade: 10
Salary: £40,553.75 per annum (inclusive of a 10% operational allowance and a 15% shift allowance, base pay is £32,443 per annum)
Contract Type: Fixed term for 12 months.
Base: Gravesend, Kent
Closing date: 8th June 2026
Interview date: 15th June 2026
Who we are:
The Port of London Authority (PLA) is the statutory harbour authority for the tidal Thames, overseeing the UK’s largest port—95 miles of the River Thames from the Estuary to Teddington in West London. Our mission is to keep river users safe, protect and enhance the environment, and promote the use of the river for recreation, trade, and travel.
The role:
The Port of London Authority (PLA) is recruiting a Thames Patrol Deckhand for the lower district, operating from our base in Gravesend. This exciting role puts you at the forefront of our operations on the river.
Our vessels ensure the safety of navigation on the Thames through routine patrols, monitoring river works and vessels, responding to incidents, and enforcing regulations & Pilot transfer. As part of the Chief Harbour Master’s department, you will be a key presence on the river, working closely with Harbour Masters and other departments across the PLA to maintain a safe and efficient waterway.
You will serve aboard the CHM vessels alongside a Master, who will supervise you and command the vessel. For the right candidate.
Key Responsibilities:
Performing maintenance and safety checks on the vessel's hull, deck, engine room, and life-saving equipment to ensure operational efficiency.
Maintaining a safe, clean working environment and ensuring the vessel is securely moored.
Pilot Cutter operations such as pilot transfers.
Adhering to health and safety policies, including the use of personal protective equipment.
Operating and controlling small craft (under 24m), plant equipment, and hand tools.
Participating in pollution control, towing, mooring, and personnel transfers.
Assisting in bunkering operations, maintaining inventory, and supporting the training of new deckhands.
Participating in emergency exercises, safety briefings, and performing general duties at locations like Royal Terrace Pier, Denton, Barrier Gardens Pier, and others.
This role also involves delivering items, supporting various departments, and ensuring KPIs are met.
The ideal candidate will meet the following requirements:
Hold a RYA Power Boat Level 2 or higher.
Holds a Thames Local Knowledge Endorsement (LKE), a highly desirable credential.
Exhibit professional conduct when interacting with colleagues, stakeholders, contractors, third parties, and the public.
Be flexible, as the role may occasionally require working in other areas of the Thames.
Be self-motivated, autonomous, and capable of using initiative, while also thriving in a team environment.
Be motivated to progress within the role
In return, we offer a competitive benefits package:
28 days annual leave
Medical Cash Plan (Westfield Health)
Generous pension - up to 14% employer contribution
Employee Assistance Programme and access to Wellbeing Resources
Discounted gym memberships and cycle to work scheme
Salary sacrifice car scheme (Tusker Cars)
Reward and recognition portal, with access to a range of discounts
To discuss this role or if you have any questions, please contact Lyn Kindlen-Funnell (Harbour Master) at [email protected]
The PLA are not registered with the UK Home Office and do not sponsor candidates who require a visa or work permit to work in the UK, therefore an offer of employment cannot be made unless you currently hold the rights to live and work in the UK.
