Port Operator
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 11, 2026. First seen by Alion on Sep 29, 2026.
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.
Why should you work for ABP?
- Have the chance to create a difference in a business critical to UK trade.
- Work within an exciting, innovative, growing business.
- You can thrive in an inclusive environment where every individual can be themselves and feel respected.
- Receive a competitive salary and benefits package.
- Get support for training, personal development, and further education.
- Benefit from support and engagement through dedicated management and leadership
Join our team in Ayr as a Port Operative! We're looking for a dedicated and motivated individual to help ensure the smooth and efficient operation of our port. In this role, you'll be a key player in our mission to connect the UK to the world.
Accountabilities
- Operate heavy plant and machinery to achieve the safe and efficient handling of cargo. Plant to include loading shovel, tug-master, forklift truck, bagging plants and materials handler.
- To undergo training to operate new and additional plant and equipment as required to meet customer and operational requirements. This will include the operation of quayside and mobile harbour cranes.
- To engage in the safe movement of cargo in storage areas, warehouses and on vessels.
- Help in the operation of the weighbridge and record and compile other administrative information associated with cargo movement and cargo handling accessories as required.
- Work with IT systems and internal and external software packages.
- To undertake cleaning tasks and general maintenance duties associated with the efficient operation of the port.
- Undertake duties to aid compliance with licences for cargo handling.
- To perform all other tasks as required.
Skills, experiences & qualifications
- Full UK Driving License
- Ability to operate heavy plant and machinery including material handlers, telehandlers and loading shovels
- Good communication skills
- Ability to work as a team
- Extensive knowledge of Port Operations
Ideal
- Crane driving - experience or willingness to learn
- Work flexible hours
Your working hours are 8 - 5 Monday to Thursday and 8 - 4 on Friday with an hour for lunch every single day
We offer a competitive salary, contributory pension from day one (Starting at 3% employee contribution with 5% company match), private healthcare, access to our Employee Assistance Program, wide range of discounts and cash back with high street and online retailers. We offer an inclusive work environment with an in-house training academy which offers ongoing opportunities to develop your skills.
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