As the deputy to the harbour master, the harbour officer ensures that port operations are properly organised. Their duties include securing access to facilities, regulating traffic, approving the positioning of vessels, and overseeing the allocation of berths. They are also responsible for cargo inspections and the prevention of water pollution.

Qualities and skills

• Availability and flexibility
• Attention to detail and organisational skills
• Ability to make decisions (by delegation)
• Stress resilience
• General legal and economic knowledge
• Knowledge of European and national regulations applicable to maritime transport.
• Ability to manage conflict situations.
• Ability to analyse situations, make
• decisions and report on them.
• Proficiency in English as standardised by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO)

Educational and training requirements

Via external competitive examination: 6 years’ seagoing experience as a naval officer or holder of a merchant navy command certificate

Via internal selection: 5 years’ seniority in the assistant harbour officer corps.

Sectors and organisations

Commercial seaport

Source: LH PORT CENTER – Further information at www.lhportcenter.com