Port Operator

You can start your training as a Junior Soldier at the Army Foundation College from the age of 16 years and 6 months.

• Mid Thigh Pull 50kg

• Medicine Ball Throw 2.7m

• 2km run 11 min 30 sec

More information about the fitness test

No formal qualifications needed

• As part of a Port Task Group, load and unload vessels to meet port deadlines and operational commitments

• Primarily based at the home of Army Maritime in Marchwood, Southampton

• You could be deployed worldwide - wherever the British Army has a presence

• Gain your Category C+E Driving Licence and learn how to use equipment such as an Industrial Forklift

• Gain MHE qualifications and a Level 2 Port Operative Apprenticeship

Step 1
You'll start with your initial military training which teaches you how to be a soldier, covering everything from fieldcraft to how to handle a rifle.

• If you join as a Junior Soldier (under 17 years and 6 months), you’ll do the basic military training (long) course at Harrogate.

• If you join as a Regular Soldier (over 17 years and 6 months), you’ll do the regular adult basic training.

Step 2
Next you’ll complete the Port Operator Class 3 course where you will learn the safety aspects of working in a hazardous port environment and gain your MHE Licences. You’ll also learn how to transfer cargo between military and civilian transport using cranes and other equipment. During this stage you will also earn your category B and C+E licenses at the Defence School of Transport in Leconfield.

Step 3
On promotion, and after earning two further MHE Specialist Qualifications, you will begin the Port Operator Class 2 course. Later on, you will complete the Port Operator Class 1 course, which includes learning how to be a Crane Supervisor.

You'll earn £27,282 a year from the start of your training, which will go up as you progress throughout your career.

If you are part of the Regimental Dive Team, you can earn additional pay between £285 and £670.

• Level 2 Port Operative Apprenticeship

• MHE (Material Handling Equipment) Qualifications

• Functional skills

• CMI (Chartered Management Institute) Diploma

• ILM (Institute of Leadership and Management) award in Leadership and Management