Job Description

Job Title:

Apprentice Cargo Operative

Location:

Port of Tilbury

Compensation:

20,393

Start Date:

Feb/Mar 2026

FIND YOUR FUTURE AT FORTH PORTS

At Forth Ports, we keep trade, logistics, and infrastructure moving. Our emerging talent roles are central to this mission, developing the skills that power our economy and connect communities across the country.


Joining our apprenticeship programme means gaining hands-on experience in a dynamic, forward thinking environment, while developing skills that matter for life and career. You'll have the opportunity to make a real impact, helping businesses thrive, supporting the smooth operation of our ports, and contributing to projects that shape the UK's infrastructure and renewable energy future. With our commitment to reach carbon neutrality by 2032 and Net Zero by 2042, we're investing heavily in sustainable and digital technologies including major growth in offshore wind and greener port operations. For you, this means joining a business that's evolving, ambitious, and making a real difference.


At Forth Ports, our people are at the heart of everything that we do and we are proud of our Gold accredited membership of The 5% Club, a milestone recognising our long-term commitment to developing emerging talent across the business. As we continue to invest through high-quality "earn and learn" opportunities, whether you're starting out, changing direction or returning after time away, we'd love to hear from you.



We're offering individuals the opportunity to develop their skills and progress their careers through our

Cargo Operative

apprenticeship. Over 2 years, you'll gain practical experience, build specialist knowledge, and work towards a recognised qualification - Supply Chain & Warehouse Level 2.



We will hold our assessment day for this role on

Tuesday

27th

January 2026

at the Port of Tilbury

,

where you will have the chance to meet some of the team and to find out more about the role and the apprenticeship. We will be in touch before then to let you know if you have been selected to attend.

About The Role

What you will learn:

As a Cargo Operative apprentice, you will gain a thorough understanding of the wider port operations and receive high quality training on a range of mechanical plant equipment and machinery. You'll gain insights into our port assets and develop a deep understanding of health and safety policies and procedures. By the end of the programme, you'll emerge as a fully trained port operative ready to excel in your career.

What can we offer you?

Full support and training throughout the apprenticeship programme, both on the job training and classroom learning A great opportunity to build a long-term career at the port A competitive salary Discretionary group bonus Generous annual leave entitlement A defined contribution pension scheme and life assurance Health promotion events and employee wellbeing initiatives Access to our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for you and your family Cycle to work scheme and on-site free parking Attractive Family Friendly Policies Employee discount platform offering discounts on UK-wide restaurants, car rentals, and holidays GymFlex health club memberships Supportive and collaborative work culture

What are we looking for?

GCSE in Maths & English at Grade C/4 or Functional Skill in Level 2 is essential Individuals who are able to demonstrate a genuine interest in the work that we do at the port, and are looking to build valuable skills for your future career Full UK working rights Full UK driving licence is required


We welcome applications from candidates of all ages to apply, but please note due to the nature of our work, we do require all candidates to be a minimum of 18 years of age.



We value diversity & inclusivity and we are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and will consider all applications for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability status.

What is the Application Process?

Application: Apply via the link on our vacancies page with your updated CV and cover letter detailing your interest in the position. Please note the deadline for applications is

Monday 5th January 2026

Screening call: If your application is of interest, our Talent Acquisition team will be in touch for an initial discussion, answer any questions that you may have and invite you to the assessment centre. Confirmation email: We will share an email to confirm what to expect at the assessment centre, anything that you need to prepare and what to bring on the day. Assessment Day: You meet the team and get a great feel for why Forth Ports is for you! This will take place on

Tuesday 27th January 2026.

We recognise that assessment centres may not be the best fit for everyone, so we are committed to offering alternative recruitment methods to ensure a fair and accessible process for all candidates

Required Criteria

GCSE Grade 4 and above or equivalent OR you will need to achieve a Functional Skills Level 2 Will be aged 18 or above for February start date Full right to work in the UK Full UK driving licence

Skills Needed

About The Company

Over our 50 years of experience we have witnessed our ports grow to become important assets to support and deliver growth both for the UK and local economies.


The growth impact has been achieved due to the continued investments in our infrastructure, making sure that our ports are able to continually develop their services and support the growth of many industries.


Our people have played a significant role. They have delivered the highest quality of service through their expertise, loyalty and flexibility and, without them, we could not have built the strong reputation and the long term agreements with many customers that we have today.

Company Culture

Welcome to Forth Ports Careers. As a leading port operator, we employ over 1,100 people across our ports in Scotland and the Port of Tilbury in London.


A career in a port business is very rewarding. There is real variety within each role and significant opportunities for promotion and career development. Don't just take our word for it; view the "Some of our People" section and the video below to gain insight into the kinds of jobs our employees do, how they've grown with us, and what motivates them each day.


The port business can be seen as a barometer for the economy and this drives us to be adaptable and fast paced as we identify new business opportunities.

Company Benefits

We are committed to creating a positive working culture for all employees, as well as a good work-life balance.


Here are just some of the benefits of working for Forth Ports.


Vacation, Paid time off, Paid sick days, Retirement plan and/or pension, Employee discounts, Gym membership or wellness programs, Cycle to work, Competitive salary, Employee Assistance Scheme

Salary

20,393.00 per year