Work Environment
This occupation is typically found in the following Career Sector(s):
Videos on the Web
- Harbour Master- from: Youtube Search
Most commonly reported Work Activities
- Operating Vehicles, Mechanised Devices, or Equipment Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanised equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or water craft.
- Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
- Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Identifying information by categorising, estimating, recognising differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
- Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analysing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
- Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
- Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
- Controlling Machines and Processes Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
- Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
- Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
- Training and Teaching Others Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Working Life
The position of Harbour Master is key in the safe and efficient management of the Port. The Harbour Master is a member of the Executive Management Team, reporting to the Chief Executive. The Harbour Master’s primary operational responsibilities are to ensure the Port’s marine activities operate safely and efficiently.
The Harbour Master has direct managerial responsibility for operations in a number of key areas including pilotage, towage, berth allocation and (VTS) vessel traffic service. Given the location of a Port, the Harbour Master also has a wider responsibility for leisure and other craft.
The role requires an in-depth understanding of ship operations in all modes including Ro-Ro passenger and freight ferries; container ships; bulk carriers of all types; oil tankers; and cruise ships.
The Harbour Master is responsible for all aspects of the operations of a Port’s Harbour, including the management of a staff and the management of a financial budget.
Most commonly reported Work Tasks
- Direct courses and speeds of ships, based on specialised knowledge of local winds, weather, water depths, tides, currents, and hasards.
- Prevent ships under navigational control from engaging in unsafe operations.
- Serve as a vessel's docking master upon arrival at a port or at a berth.
- Consult maps, charts, weather reports, or navigation equipment to determine and direct ship movements.
- Steer and operate vessels, using radios, depth finders, radars, lights, buoys, or lighthouses.
- Operate ship-to-shore radios to exchange information needed for ship operations.
- Dock or undock vessels, sometimes maneuvering through narrow spaces, such as locks.
- Stand watches on vessels during specified periods while vessels are under way.
- Inspect vessels to ensure efficient and safe operation of vessels and equipment and conformance to regulations.
- Read gauges to verify sufficient levels of hydraulic fluid, air pressure, or oxygen.
Qualities - Harbour Master
Ability to motivate and manage a skilled workforce operating around the clock on every day in the year
Financial and commercial acumen in respect of both Port business and that of customers
Ability to develop and maintain relationships with a wide range of stakeholders both nationally and internationally
Ability to communicate clearly and authoritatively both verbally and in writing.
Knowledge of & compliance with HSA Martiime & shipping & logistics regulations
A flexible, adaptable, and creative attitude to problem solving
Interests - Harbour Master
This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Realist
Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.
Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.
Enterprising
Enterprising people like situations that involve using resources for personal or corporate economic gain. Such people may have an opportunistic frame of mind, and are drawn to commerce, trade and making deals. Some pursue sales and marketing occupations. Many will eventually end up owning their own business, or in management roles in larger organisations. They tend to be very goal-oriented and work best when focused on a target. Some have an entrepreneurial inclination.
Administrative
Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.
They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.
Entry / Progression - Harbour Master
If you are interested in becoming a Harbour Master, you have two possible paths to follow. One is to join the Navy and gain experience and training in maritime operations and safety. The other is to pursue a Merchant career and comply with the HSA Onshore Guidelines for Harbour Masters. Both options require a high level of responsibility, leadership and communication skills.
Irish Maritime Development Office (IMDO), highlights career pathways into working at sea.
Key Skills Certs:
A Harbour Master must have a valid:
- STCW II/2 Certificate of Competency as Master, (unlimited) valid for service in the Irish Mercantile Marine.
- At least three years seagoing experience as Master or Chief Officer of a merchant vessel and/or three years experience as a Harbour Master, Deputy Harbour Master or Assistant Harbour Master in a comparable port.
Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research.
Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.
Example search terms include: supply chain, logistics.
Search for FET Courses
PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.
Example search terms include: supply chain, logistics.
Search for PLC Courses
Apprenticeships:
Apprenticeships are structured work-based training programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. They run from 2 – 4 years and are open to individuals of all ages, including school leavers, those seeking a career change, and existing employees who wish to upskill.
Examples: Transport and Logistics.
Search for Apprenticeships
Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate)
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.
Example search terms include: supply chain, logistics management.
Search for CAO Courses
Professional Development
Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world.
Check the Useful Contacts tab on this page to see if there are any professional bodies listed who may provide training related to this career.
Pay & Salary - Harbour Master
Salary Range (thousands per year)* €26k - €67k
Salaries Vary by Employer, location, role, duties, skills, and experience.
Asst Harbour master
€26,735, €28,090, €29,168, €31,101, €33,769, €35,939, €38,439, €39,982, €41,523, €43,066, €44,603, €46,144, €47,685, €49,227, €50,763 (LSI1), €52,489 (LSI2), €54,199
Harbour Master
€32,321, €34,650, €35,274, €38,383, €41,502, €44,622, €47,743, €49,670, €51,592, €53,526, €55,447, €57,374, €59,302, €61,224, €63,159, €65, 302(LSI1), €67,440(LSI2)
Data Source(s):
Dept Agriculture, Food & Marine Gov.ie/ Talent.com
Last Updated: February, 2024
Labour Market Updates - Harbour Master
Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Marine and waterways transport operatives, Air transport operatives, Rail transport operatives, Bus and coach drivers, Train and tram drivers, Van drivers, Other drivers and transport operatives n.e.c.
This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2024).
Van and bus/coach drivers account for the largest share of employment within this occupational group. Employment growth was above average, primarily related to growth between 2018 and 2019; employment levels in 2023 were broadly in line with levels in 2021. The new quota for employment permits for bus/coach drivers in December 2022 resulted in 216 new permits issued in 2023.
There was a relatively high share of vacancies advertised through DSP for bus and coach drivers and Skills for Growth data noted issues with recruiting bus drivers. With over a third aged 55 years and older, openings may be more frequent in coming years due to replacement demand. The NTA and operators have engaged in extensive recruitment campaigns and open days recently along with introducing an employee referral programme. Despite this, shortages of bus and coach drivers persists.
Useful Contacts - Harbour Master
-
Irish Martimtime Development Office
- Three Park Place Upper Hatch Street Dublin 2 D02 FX65
- 01 775 39 00
- [email protected]
- Click Here
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Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine
