Port marine operations officer
Level 4 · HigherTransport and logistics 2 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
This Level 4 apprenticeship develops marine operations officers who manage the safe movement and berthing of ships, tankers, and vessels within ports and harbours. You will coordinate vessel movements, manage tides and weather conditions, and ensure compliance with maritime regulations. It can lead to harbour master, marine superintendent, or senior port operations management roles.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Maritime law, port legislation, and vessel traffic management regulations
Tidal calculations, meteorology, and their effect on vessel movements
Ship handling principles including tugs, mooring, and anchoring operations
Hazardous cargo and dangerous goods regulations in port operations
Emergency response including oil spill, fire, and man-overboard procedures
Communication procedures including VHF radio and GMDSS standards
Port risk management, safety management systems, and incident investigation
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Coordinate the arrival, movement, and departure of vessels in port
Issue berth allocations and manage port traffic to avoid conflicts
Monitor weather, tidal windows, and channel conditions for safe navigation
Communicate with ship masters, pilots, and tug operators by VHF radio
Oversee dangerous cargo operations and ensure compliance with IMDG codes
Respond to maritime emergencies and coordinate port emergency plans
Maintain port logs, vessel records, and incident reports accurately
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 4 (Higher) - roughly Foundation-degree level. Usually needs Level 3 (A-levels, a T-Level, or an Advanced apprenticeship) or relevant experience.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 5/6 apprenticeship or a more senior role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
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What it’s really like
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