Port of London Authority (PLA)

Job Overview

The Port of London Authority (PLA) is inviting applications for the position of Marine Pilot – Trainee, a rare opportunity to build a maritime career on one of the world’s busiest and most historic rivers. Based in Gravesend, this role is designed for individuals who want to play a vital part in ensuring the safe navigation of commercial vessels along the River Thames.

Marine Pilots are the backbone of safe maritime trade. Every large vessel entering or leaving the Thames depends on their expertise to guide it safely through busy waters, variable tides, and complex port operations. As a Trainee Pilot, you’ll undergo an intensive training program that prepares you to handle this responsibility with precision and confidence.

Why This Job Matters

The River Thames remains one of the UK’s most active trade gateways, supporting thousands of jobs and contributing billions to the economy. Every ship that docks safely represents goods, energy, and resources that fuel daily life — from cars and oil to construction materials and food imports.

As a Marine Pilot Trainee, your work directly affects the safety, efficiency, and reputation of UK maritime trade. It’s a profession built on discipline, experience, and a deep respect for the sea. The PLA has been guiding vessels safely through the Thames for over a century, and joining this legacy means becoming part of a proud maritime tradition.

This role isn’t just about steering ships. It’s about leadership, precision, and situational awareness in dynamic environments. Each day brings a new challenge — unpredictable weather, complex tides, and varied cargo operations — making it ideal for those who thrive on responsibility and problem-solving.

Key Responsibilities

As a Trainee Marine Pilot, you’ll start with supervised duties and gradually move toward independent operations. Your responsibilities include:

• Navigational Guidance: Assisting vessel masters in maneuvering ships safely through the River Thames.
• Bridge Management: Maintaining control and communication between ship personnel and shore authorities.
• Vessel Coordination: Overseeing tug operations and ensuring smooth berthing or unberthing.
• Safety and Compliance: Following maritime laws, the Ports and Marine Facilities Safety Code, and PLA safety protocols.
• Reporting: Submitting passage plans, navigation records, and other documentation for each operation.
• Continuous Learning: Participating in simulator exercises and on-board training to progress toward full pilot status.

Every task you perform contributes to maintaining the Port’s reputation for safety and operational excellence.

Minimum Requirements

To apply for the Marine Pilot Trainee program, you must meet the following essential criteria:

• Eligibility to work in the United Kingdom.
• A valid STCW II/2 Masters Unlimited Certificate of Competency, or proof you’ll achieve it before training starts.
• A valid unrestricted ENG1 medical certificate (or equivalent).
• A full, current UK driving license.
• Fluency in English, especially for clear VHF communication.
• Excellent spatial awareness and the ability to make confident decisions under pressure.
• Strong teamwork and basic computer skills.
• Willingness to live within one hour of the PLA headquarters in Gravesend.

Desirable Skills

While not required, candidates with the following will stand out:

• Experience with tug operations (berthing or unberthing).
• Familiarity with a range of commercial vessel types.
• Working knowledge of the Ports and Marine Facilities Safety Code.
• Local knowledge of the River Thames environment and navigation patterns.

Training will be provided for the right candidate, so enthusiasm, professionalism, and a safety-first mindset matter most.

Training and Development

The PLA’s training program lasts approximately seven months, during which you’ll learn through simulator sessions, classroom instruction, and real-world pilotage under supervision. You’ll shadow experienced pilots, handle navigation exercises, and study river traffic management systems.

Upon successful completion, you’ll progress through pilot classes:

• Class IV Pilot: £88,712 per year
• Class III–II Pilot: £100,000+ per year
• Class I Pilot: £125,360 per year

This progression reflects your growing expertise and independence. Each step brings greater responsibility and reward.

Career Growth and Opportunities

Becoming a Marine Pilot opens doors to long-term, high-earning career paths within maritime operations. Many PLA pilots go on to become Senior Pilots, Port Operations Managers, or Maritime Safety Officers.

The PLA also invests in continuous learning — you’ll have access to ongoing professional development, leadership courses, and specialized certifications. For those with ambition, this role can lead to a lifetime career shaping the future of UK maritime logistics.

Salary and Benefits

• Starting Salary: £70,471 during training (7-month period).
• Progression Pay: Up to £125,360 as you advance through pilot classes.

Benefits Include:

• Regular pay increases aligned with skill progression.
• Full medical coverage and pension plan.
• Paid holidays and annual leave.
• Access to professional training and certifications.
• Opportunities for advancement within the PLA.

This package reflects not only the responsibility of the role but the trust placed in those who keep UK waters safe and efficient.

About the Company

The Port of London Authority (PLA) manages and protects one of the busiest inland waterways in the world — the River Thames. From Toddington to the North Sea, the PLA oversees safety, environmental standards, and navigation for commercial and leisure vessels alike.

For over 100 years, the PLA has ensured the smooth operation of river traffic while protecting the environment and promoting sustainability. The authority supports thousands of jobs and helps keep Britain’s maritime trade moving every day.

Working with the PLA means being part of a mission that values safety, service, and teamwork. It’s a chance to build a meaningful career that blends tradition with modern innovation.

Work Environment

Marine Pilots work in challenging, changing conditions — often during early mornings, nights, and varying weather. You’ll operate on-board large commercial vessels, tugboats, and shore facilities, balancing technical precision with quick judgment.

This role demands alertness, focus, and adaptability. In return, it offers deep satisfaction, professional respect, and a sense of purpose that few jobs can match.

How to Apply

If you meet the requirements and are ready to begin your journey as a Marine Pilot Trainee, apply directly on the Port of London Authority’s careers website:

👉 Apply Now on PLA Careers

You’ll be asked to:

1. Submit your CV and cover letter.
2. Answer screening questions about your qualifications.
3. Attend an interview and simulator test at the PLA headquarters in Gravesend.

Successful candidates will receive a conditional job offer following security and reference checks.

FAQs

Q: Do I need previous pilot experience?

No, training is provided. However, maritime experience with navigation or vessel operations is important.

Q: Is the position open to international applicants?

No. You must have the legal right to live and work in the United Kingdom.

Q: Where is the training conducted?

Training takes place primarily in Gravesend, with simulator sessions and practical exercises on the River Thames.

Q: How long is the training program?

Approximately seven months, followed by progression to independent pilot classes.

Q: What’s the work schedule like?

Full-time, with varied shifts depending on vessel schedules and tides.

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