Job Description and Activities
A General Supervisor ensures that the work of operatives is done safely and to the requirements of the port and its customers. In some ports a General Supervisor may be required to supervise the work of marine, passenger and cargo operatives (stevedores). In some cases these three roles will be covered by a general operative, with supervision from a General Supervisor. The activities undertaken by a General Supervisor normally include the following:
- Supervising vessel loading and discharge – teams of general operatives working on the loading or unloading of vessels or cargo ships would normally report to a General Supervisor, who in turn reports to the port operations manager. The General Supervisor would normally brief the team on the work to be done and who will be doing it, and delegate part of the supervision to their team leaders. The Supervisor monitors the team when working the vessel and ensures it is being done safely and efficiently, and also deals with any problems or queries that may arise.
- Supervising the operation of harbour craft – in ports where operatives are required to crew harbour craft, the General Supervisor would be responsible for the operation of the vessel and supervising the work of the craft, which could involve laying navigation buoys, clearing approach channels or transferring marine pilots onto vessels waiting to enter the port.
- Supervising safety – ports can be dangerous places in which to work. It is normally the responsibility of the General Supervisor to ensure that the immediate working area is safe to work, and that the port operative is wearing relevant safety equipment and working safely.
- Liaising with customers and other port users – the management of a freight or passenger terminal may need to liaise with freight customers, shipping agents, passengers, HM Customs, Immigration, Harbour Authority and the vessels loading officer.
The Working Environment
A General Supervisor should be fit and able to work at height or on the water. They should have good communication and leadership skills. Working hours and conditions typically include regular unsocial hours.
Salary
A General Supervisor’s salary can range from £18,000 to £35,000, depending on activities and the size of their port.
Entry Requirements
Progression to the role of General Supervisor is normally from team leader or general operative. Increasingly however, qualifications are important. An N/SVQ level 3 in Supervision of Port Operations – with a pathway in General Supervision – exists for both those already working in the ports industry and those wishing to begin their career as a Supervisor.
Career Development
The traditional progression for a General Supervisor is to become a Port Operations Manager.