Date: 13 Jul 2026
Location: Southampton, GB
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Company: ABP
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.
The Role: General Terminal Operative (SGL)
Purpose:
To carry out mooring duties and cargo movement operations, including loading, unloading and securing of cargo, both commercial and military.
In addition, this post will be required to carry out various port support functions and maintenance tasks as required.
Accountabilities:
Vessel mooring duties including securing vessels to the port/harbour/jetty and handling fenders.
Load, unload, handle, stow and secure all types of cargo, including dangerous goods and helicopters for both vessel hold and deck stowage and to/from all other modes of transport.
Operate mobile, shore based and rough terrain cargo handling equipment.
Carry out fault finding on cargo handling equipment.
Carry out Reefer duties, including connection, disconnection and monitoring as required and for which trained.
Work safely at height (this may include being lifted in a safety cage), working in confined spaces and around water.
Operate the Bio wash system and ensure area is kept clean and in good working order at all times.
Provide the highest levels of customer service at all times.
Complete all relevant documentation as required and to the correct standard within any specified timeframe including carrying our cargo tallying using handheld devices
Comply with all relevant legislation, regulations, policies and procedures (internal and external).
Carry out site support and maintenance tasks as required including general housekeeping and for which trained.
Successfully complete any identified training course deemed necessary for the role.
If required, be trained and carry out the duties of a rail driver, shunter or lead brakesman
About you:
This is a very customer driven role - you will be very organised with the ability to prioritise tasks and manage multiple projects at any given time. You will be a real team player, eager to get stuck in to this exciting and fast-paced industry and work hard. The key to success is communication, it is essential that you can use your initiative and be proactive.
Skills, Experience & Qualifications
Essential
Ability to work effectively and as part of a team.
Good interpersonal and communication skills.
Able to follow instructions and complete tasks to the required standard.
Able to identify potential risks and hazards and take appropriate action.
Capable of absorbing information quickly.
Hold a full, clean driving licence.
Able and prepared to gain relevant UK Government Security Clearance.
Willing to work shifts/unsocial hours/on-call basis/short notice call-out..
Ideal
Understanding of port and/or military operations.
Previous stevedore / rigger experience
Want to see what it’s like to work for the UK’s largest port operator? Our virtual work experience programme gives you an inside look at trade, sustainability, safety, and careers in one of the UK’s most vital indutries- https://www.talentxp.co.uk/track/e2e029cd
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
