Port Protection Officer - Fixed Term (12 Months)

Port Otago Group’s business comprises a regional container terminal, bulk port activities, cruise and property investment and development. We service South Canterbury, Otago, and Southland, working with customers to streamline their supply chains. 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 the role:

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.

This 12-month fixed-term role is a great opportunity for the right candidate to earn recognised maritime and security qualifications and gain hands-on port experience. 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

What’s in it for you?

• Competitive remuneration package on offer ($103,971.00 per annum)

• 5 weeks of annual leave

• Opportunities for upskilling and career development

• Work alongside and learn from a fantastic team

• An exceptional view from your workplace

• 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 to ensure our Port Otago Application Form is completed. Don’t delay, we will be reviewing applications as they come through and may close applications sooner.

Closing date: 5pm, Thursday 15 October 2026

For a copy of the Job Description visit position-description---port-protection-officer-2025.pdf