Port Protection Officer
Our culture is hands-on, safety focused and encourages continuous improvement.
Our diverse portfolio means there is always something on the go and as a business we are collaborative, fast-paced and always open.
About this opportunity:
Are you passionate about safety, security, and maritime operations? Join our team as a Port Protection Officer, where you'll be the first point of contact for all visitors to our Port – both shore and waterside. This is a dynamic role that blends responsibility for security, marine coordination and communication, customer service, and safety responsibilities to support the day-to-day operations of our Port.
Port Protection Officers are part of our Marine & Infrastructure Team and report through to our Security Manager, based in Port Chalmers. Hours of work for the role is a 4 days/4 off/4 nights/4 off rolling shift pattern, 12hr shifts, an average of 42 hours per week.
The key tasks and responsibilities of the role include, but are not limited to:
- Maintaining and enforcing Port security measures and responding to incidents
- Undertaking regular safety and security inspections of our Port facilities
- Providing ship to shore shuttle escort services for visiting crew
- Providing operational support to Marine, with duties including harbour traffic control, ship movement scheduling, permit applications
- Liaising with shipping agents, vessel managers and regulatory bodies (Maritime NZ, Customs, MPI)
- Operating surveillance systems (CCTV, AIS, radar) and monitoring maritime activity
- Assisting in emergency response drills and incident investigations
- Delivering exceptional customer service to all Port visitors
- Supporting the Security Manager with special projects and administrative tasks
Some of the qualities we are looking for:
- Safety is our #1 priority; therefore, you will need a strong commitment to Health & Safety – not afraid to speak up and act immediately if something is wrong!
- Excellent communication and problem-solving skills and a willingness to collaborate with others
- Proven customer service experience and strong interpersonal skills to work with varied stakeholders and maintain close working relationships
- A demonstrated history of working shift work
- Previous experience working in security or the maritime industry would be advantageous
- A demonstrated strong work ethic, reliability, attendance, timekeeping skills, and a team player
- An Intermediate or above level of skills and experience in operating software applications across various platforms
- Demonstrated administrative skills
If you are successful, you will be required to:
- Obtain a Port Facilities Security Officer qualification
- Obtain a VHF Radio Operators Certificate
- Operate Restricted Radar
- Provide emergency first aid care at medical incidents
- Competitive remuneration package on offer
- 5 weeks of annual leave
- Health insurance paid for you and your partner and dependent children (valued at approx $6,600pa)
- Superannuation matched up to 7% after 6 months service
- Opportunities for upskilling and career development
- Work alongside and learn from a fantastic team
- An exceptional view from your workplace
- Contribution towards relocation costs up to $5k to Dunedin are on offer for our successful candidates
- We are committed to providing a work environment in which everyone is included, treated fairly and with respect
Heads up:
- A full clean NZ Drivers licence is essential
- You must be able to pass Ministry of Justice, ACC checks and a medical which includes a drug and alcohol test as part of our recruitment process
- Random drug and alcohol testing
How do I apply?
Please apply online via our Port Otago Careers website www.portotago.co.nz/careers to ensure our Port Otago Application Form is completed. Don't delay, we will be reviewing applications as they come through.
Closing date: 5pm, Monday 17 November 2025.