Port Assistant / Customer Service Assistant

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This is a seasonal Port Assistant / Customer Service position available until Mid-October 2026.

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Vacancy ref - REC000101078

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Although a driving licence is not essential for this role, you must be able to travel to Mallaig Terminal, by 06:30 please take this into consideration when applying.

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Location - Mallaig

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Hours of work - Contracts can be anything from 20 to 40 hours per week. Earliest start time is 06:30 and latest finish time is 21:00 - different shift patterns are available, flexibility to cover these hours is required.

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Hourly rate - minimum of £14.34 with additional earning potential for unsociable hours.

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As a Port Assistant you are a valued member of the Port team, who will play a vital role in delivering an exceptional experience to everyone who uses our facilities - whether they are island residents, visitors from the UK or abroad, or commercial partners.

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Your responsibilities will also be essential in maintaining the safety, security, and smooth operation of our ports. This includes supporting pier maintenance, managing traffic flow, assisting with vessel movements, and ensuring the port environment remains clean, organised, and welcoming for all.

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Day to Day Working

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You'll enjoy a varied and dynamic shift pattern that includes weekends, bank holidays, and evening work - perfect for those who thrive in a flexible and ever-changing environment.

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Some days will start early to welcome the first arrivals, while other shifts may see you staying on to ensure everything runs smoothly until the final vessel departs - making every day different and rewarding. There may be a requirement to work out with these hours due to operational requirements.

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You will also receive unsociable hours payment of 12.5 percent on top of your hourly rate for shifts which start before 08:00 and/or end after 19:00. The basic hourly rate will be paid at single time for every hour up to 40 hours per week, every hour above this will be paid at 1.75 times the basic hourly rate.

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Key Responsibilities

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Ticket Sales, Customer Service & Administration

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• Provide fast, accurate ticket sales and outstanding customer service, assisting customers with travel options, enquiries, booking changes, cancellations, and disruption-related travel arrangements.
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• Clearly communicate ticketing information, fares, policies, and procedures to ensure customers are well informed and confident in their travel plans.
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• Operate ticketing systems and equipment efficiently, process cash and card payments securely, and maintain accurate customer, ticketing, and operational records, including sailing statistics.
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Vessel Movement & Port Operations

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• Support safe and efficient port operations by mooring vessels, marshalling vehicles, directing traffic during embarkation and disembarkation, and assisting with the safe movement of passengers and vehicles.
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• Operate equipment, including forklifts and vans, and follow established procedures for the safe handling of cargo and equipment.
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Maintenance, Safety & Security

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• Carry out routine cleaning and maintenance tasks, reporting defects, maintenance requirements, and safety concerns promptly.
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• Monitor port and pier areas to maintain a safe and secure environment, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and responding appropriately to incidents and emergencies in line with procedures.
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About you

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We value many qualities in our employees, but most importantly, we seek individuals who are resilient, compassionate, proactive, supportive, and bring a positive, can-do attitude to everything they do.

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To excel in your role, you will need:

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• Passionate about delivering excellent customer service and creating positive customer experiences.
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• Strong communication skills, with the confidence to engage effectively with customers and colleagues.
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• Proactive, adaptable, and solution-focused, with the ability to work independently and use initiative.
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• Highly organised with strong attention to detail and accuracy.
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• Comfortable using IT systems and able to quickly learn new technologies and processes.
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• A collaborative team player who thrives in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment.
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• Committed to demonstrating CalMac's values, representing the brand positively, and maintaining flexibility to work shifts, weekends, and public holidays.
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• Reliable with consistent access to the terminal and a good understanding of CalMac services.
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You will receive comprehensive, role-specific and mandatory training to ensure you are fully prepared and confident when you begin this position.

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Why Join CalMac?

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Extra Benefits

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• Enjoy a full uniform and PPE provided to you, along with exceptional training and development opportunities designed to support your growth and career progression within our organisation.
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• Take advantage of exclusive discounts onboard our CalMac vessels, making travel more enjoyable and affordable.
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• Access a wide range of staff benefits throughout your employment, enhancing your overall experience as part of our team.
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At CalMac, you'll play an important role in keeping island communities connected through our lifeline ferry services. Work alongside supportive colleagues whilst enjoying some of Scotland's most spectacular coastal scenery. Every day brings the chance to make a real difference to the communities and customers we serve.

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What are you waiting for Apply today!

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Please note, we may close this vacancy early for external applicants if we receive the required quality or quantity of applications. All offers are subject to references and right to work in the UK checks.

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