Job title: VTS Officer
Department: Harbour Masters
Reporting to: VTS Operations Manager
Grade: 7
Salary: starting at £54,051.45 per annum (inclusive of allowances), rising to £58,751.55 on completion of training, plus regular overtime working is available meaning earning potential is far higher (circa £62‑£78k)
Working Pattern: This role is shift based, working an average of 35 hours per week – rosters will be available to the successful candidate
Base: London River House, Gravesend
Closing date: Monday 15 June 2026
Interview date: Tuesday 23 June 2026
Who we are
The Port of London Authority is the statutory harbour authority for the tidal Thames and responsible for 95 miles of the River Thames from the Estuary to Teddington Lock in West London. We work to keep river users safe, protect and enhance the environment and promote the use of the river for trade and travel. London VTS is responsible for the safe and efficient navigation of a diverse range of commercial and leisure vessels in the Thames Estuary and lower reaches of the river covering an area of approximately 600 square miles.
The role
As VTS Officer in the PLA, you will be required to operate the latest state of the art surveillance and communications equipment and manage the navigational safety of the world’s largest ships down to the smallest recreational craft as well as protecting one of the most iconic and historical waterways. You will deal with the general public, berth operators and emergency services as well as communicating extensively with senior management, marine pilots, the harbour patrol service and other internal Port of London Authority departments.
This is a highly rewarding role in one of the UK’s premier ports, an industry leading organisation which provides attractive benefits including career progression into supervisory and Harbour Master roles.
Key accountabilities
* Ensure the safe and efficient delivery of a VTS Information Service, Traffic Organisation Service and Navigational Assistance Service (as defined by IALA) as appropriate to the area of operation ensuring that all adopted standard operating procedures are adhered to.
* Monitoring and regulating marine traffic to ensure compliance with all local, national and international regulations.
* Operate and monitor equipment for communications, data collection, data analysis and establishment of a vessel traffic image.
* Control and coordinate the movements of the Harbour Servicer Launches to facilitate the safe movement of vessels as required within the port.
* Respond to marine incidents and initiate/implement emergency procedures including liaison with emergency and allied services as appropriate.
* Maintain a log of all incidents/accidents and all other relevant events occurring within the area of responsibility.
* Report VTS equipment deficiencies to the VTS Watch Manager and submit ServicePortal and rectification reports as required.
* Provide support to the Shipping Coordinators as required by VTS operational procedures.
* Respond to marine incidents and initiate/implement emergency procedures. Act as PLA Bronze as required.
* Undertake/facilitate technical and professional training as required.
* Any other duties assigned by the manager or supervisor from time to time. Such duties will be reasonable in relation to the jobholder’s skills, abilities and status.
The above list is not exhaustive and other duties may be attached to the post from time to time. Variations may also occur to the duties and responsibilities without changing the general character of the post.
What we are looking for
The successful candidate will hold an STCW certificate of competency, a VTS C0103-1 or a VTS Module 4 certificate and ability to complete a C0103-1. There is a further requirement to obtain a VTS Local Knowledge Endorsement for which training will be provided.
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
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.
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