Technician (Welder/Fenderman)

The Port of Dover is looking for a skilled Welder/Fabricator to join our Engineering team.

This is a key role within our Mechanical function, where you’ll contribute to maintaining and repairing critical port infrastructure. You’ll act as a technical specialist in welding and fabrication, using a variety of techniques to support the upkeep and reliability of our diverse range of assets.

Working both independently and as part of a team, you’ll take pride in delivering high-quality workmanship in a fast-paced, safety-critical environment.

• Carry out new fabrication and repair welding across a wide range of plant and equipment
• Perform welding techniques including MMA, MMAW, and GTAW
• Manufacture components and structures from engineering drawings using a variety of materials
• Support the day-to-day operation of the mechanical workshop, ensuring work is completed to schedule and quality standards
• Deliver planned preventative maintenance and routine repairs
• Complete job reports and maintenance records via the Ports ERP system
• Ensure all work is carried out in line with risk assessments, statutory regulations, and Health & Safety policies
• Liaise with operations teams, contractors and external stakeholders to minimise disruption
• Support apprentices and colleagues through training and technical guidance
• Assist with sourcing and procurement of parts, materials, and equipment
• Respond to breakdowns and emergencies, including participation in standby or shift rotas

Qualifications & Experience

• Apprenticeship in a relevant discipline (minimum NVQ Level 3 or equivalent)
• Minimum 3 years’ post-qualification experience in welding and fabrication
• Proven ability to interpret engineering drawings and produce high-quality fabrications
• Experience creating and reviewing risk assessments
• Good IT skills, including experience using ERP systems
• Full UK driving licence

Working Environment

This is a physically demanding, hands-on role where you will:

• Work in challenging conditions (noise, weather, dust, heavy plant environments)
• Be required to exert sustained physical effort and maintain concentration over long periods
• Work flexibly, including overtime, call-outs, and participation in a standby or 24/7 rota (with additional payments)

At the Port of Dover, you’ll be part of a vital organisation at the heart of UK trade and travel. We offer:

• A supportive and collaborative working environment
• Ongoing training and development opportunities
• Diverse and interesting work across a unique engineering setting
• The chance to contribute to critical national infrastructure

• 5 weeks annual leave + bank holidays (pro rata)
• Generous contributory pension scheme
• Discretionary annual bonus scheme
• Private Health Care
• Life assurance
• Employee assistance programme
• 3rd party discounts
• Cycle to work scheme
• Benefits and reward platform
• Free Parking
• Employee volunteering scheme

Hours of work: Monday – Friday 40 hrs per week

Salary: £35k

All offers of employment are subject to us obtaining satisfactory references (covering all education, training, employment and unemployment in the preceding 5 years) and there will be a pre-employment medical including a Drug and Alcohol test. We need to satisfy your Right to Work in the UK.

Please be aware that all employees will be subject to background security checks in order to obtain a Dock Pass.

We value the unique differences that each of our colleagues bring to work every day and are committed to creating an environment where everyone is looking after each other and respected, included and able to perform at their best.

All applications are reviewed by our team — we do not use AI for screening.

Closing date:  24 July 2026 at 5pm