Dockmaster
Why Southwark?
Southwark is a large, ambitious and progressive council with a ‘can do’ attitude and enviable reputation. As a Council, we are successful, passionate and forward-thinking. Extending from the river Thames into South East London, Southwark encompasses some of the capital’s cultural hotspots, vibrant communities and acclaimed greenspaces.
With the only working boatyard in central London, an excellent team and an extensive investment programme there has never been a better time to seize the opportunity to work in this service. With its vibrant, energetic feel, Southwark is a very attractive place to work if you relish the opportunities and challenges of marine services in a fast-paced, dynamic, inner city setting.
What You'll Be Doing
As a Dockmaster, you will play a key operational role within South Dock Marina—supporting safe, smooth and customer-focused marina services. You will be the primary point of contact for berth holders and members of the public during your duty shift and will undertake a wide range of practical, marine and site management activities.
Your work will be varied, purposeful and highly practical, including:
Operating essential marine infrastructure such as the sea lock, lifting road bridge, marina work boat, cranes and boat-moving equipment.
Managing safe movement of craft within the marina and maintaining accurate records of boat movements and bookings using the Havenstar marina management system.
Undertaking daily facility checks, patrolling the site, maintaining public areas and supporting the general upkeep of the marina and boatyard.
Providing first-line customer service, handling enquiries and supporting a positive berth-holder experience.
Responding to and resolving operational issues, faults and safety concerns.
Supporting maintenance tasks including electrics, plumbing, carpentry or general repairs where required.
Conducting sewage pump-out operations and ensuring safe disposal.
Contributing to health and safety management, including preparing and reviewing risk assessments.
This is a practical role at the heart of marina life, requiring teamwork, technical proficiency and a strong customer ethos. You will work on a shift system, including evenings, weekends and bank holidays, helping ensure the marina operates smoothly and safely every day.
What We're Looking For
We are seeking an enthusiastic, reliable and proactive individual with a passion for marine environments and hands-on operational work. You will bring:
Essential Skills & Experience
Experience in a customer-facing role, ideally within a marina, boating or related operational environment.
Knowledge of boat handling, marina operations, or technical skills in trades such as electrics, plumbing, carpentry, engineering or maintenance.
Ability to operate or learn to operate marine and lifting equipment safely, including cranes and powered craft.
Strong communication skills and the ability to work confidently with berth holders, contractors and partner agencies.
Competence using computer systems including Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook.
A full driving licence.
Additional Information
This is a full-time permanent role, working 36 hours + 4 hours contracted overtime on a rota system that includes weekends and some evenings.
Salary Range: £32,907 - £38,070 per annum
For an informal conversation about the role, please contact:
Phil Cotman, Harbour Master – 07548 780131
Click here to view our Benefits and more information
Closing date: Monday 29 December 2025
Interviews: Wednesday 21 January 2026
Disability Confident (guaranteed interview) scheme:
As part of our commitment to inclusion, we offer guaranteed interviews for specific groups of people. To qualify, you'll need to meet the minimum requirements for the role, and identify with one of the below criteria:
- Members of the Armed Forces and veterans
- Are currently in care, or have previously been in care
- If you consider yourself to be disabled or if you have a long-term health condition.
Attachments
Salary range
- £32,907 - £38,070 per year