Port agent apprenticeship

During the port agent apprenticeship you’ll help with the efficient arrival, working, and departure of vessels in a port

Working in the shipping industry and at ports throughout the country, you’ll be employed by a commercial company that could be based in a port or off site, representing the vessel operators, to ensure the safe arrival, working, and departure of their vessels in a port. You will support vessel progress during a voyage (which could be anywhere in the world) and ensure the captain has the help and assistance they need. You’ll be responsible for completing your own port agency work within the limits of your responsibility. You’ll also be responsible for providing advice and support to the captain during the voyage, providing financial services (including cash float), and for arranging and overseeing cargo operations when in port. You may also need to arrange the crew, purchase supplies needed, and negotiate any work needed with local port suppliers. You must also submit any reports or applications needed to comply with port requirements. In this role as port agent, you’ll need to be an excellent communicator, as daily duties will include interacting with the captain and crew who may be of any nationality, plus all those involved in port operations and suppliers.

Duration: 18 months

Relevant school subjects: Geography, business studies

Entry requirements for the port agent apprenticeship: Depend on employer, but likely GCSEs or equivalent qualifications

Achievement upon completion: Level 3 (Advanced)—equivalent to A-levels

Potential salary upon completion: £26,000 per annum