Job Details

We are seeking a reliable and skilled Tug/Shunter Driver to join our team on a ongoing temporary basis. This role is essential to keeping freight and container flows moving smoothly within a busy port environment. If you thrive in fast-paced logistics, have an eye for safety, and can work precisely under pressure, this could be the perfect fit for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Tug & Shunter Operations in Port Areas: Safely operate tug/shunt vehicles to move trailers, containers, and port equipment between quaysides, warehouses, container yards, and designated loading bays.
• Yard Flow & Traffic Management: Navigate in congested, high-traffic port zones, coordinating with signallers, banksmen, and traffic marshals to maintain efficient movement while preventing bottlenecks.
• Loading & Unloading Support: Position trailers and container units accurately for cranes, reach stackers, and forklifts to ensure smooth handovers and minimal downtime.
• Pre- and Post-Trip Inspections: Carry out vehicle safety checks before and after shifts, including coupling/uncoupling, brake testing, and ensuring twist-lock mechanisms are secure.
• Equipment & Container Handling: Assist with securing loads, checking container seals, and reporting any damage or discrepancies to supervisors.
• Safety Compliance: Adhere strictly to port health & safety protocols, PPE requirements, speed limits, and vessel-side operating procedures.
• Communication & Coordination: Use radio systems to maintain constant contact with the control tower, yard supervisors, and quay teams.
• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate movement logs, container numbers, and shift reports in line with company and port authority requirements.
• Emergency Procedures: Be prepared to respond to incidents such as equipment breakdowns, hazardous material alerts, or weather-related operational changes.

Requirements

• Valid, in-date Tug or Shunter Licence
• Valid UK Driving licence
• Proven experience operating tugs, shunters, or similar heavy vehicles, port or terminal experience strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of container yard operations, vessel loading/unloading processes, and port traffic management.
• Strong understanding of vehicle maintenance and safety checks.
• Ability to work in all weather conditions and adapt to changing operational priorities.
• Excellent communication skills for working closely with multi-disciplinary teams in a busy port.
• Flexible to work varied shifts, including nights, weekends

If you are interested in this role, please apply today!!

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About Us

We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. In line with our Diversity and Inclusion policy, we welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. As a Disability Confident Employer, and part of the Nicholas Associates Group, we are committed to supporting candidates with disabilities, and we're happy to discuss flexible working options.

We are committed to protecting the privacy of all our candidates and clients. If you choose to apply, your information will be processed in accordance with the Nicholas Associates Group of companies Privacy Notice.