Harbour Master

Brancaster Staithe Harbour is a lively and loved spot on the North Norfolk Coast, used by pleasure craft and a small fleet of fishing vessels all year round. The harbour is especially busy during the summer months and at peak holiday times, with people heading out across its winding creeks and moorings. We’re looking for a Harbour Master to help keep the harbour safe, well managed and welcoming for everyone who uses it.
This role is based on annualised hours, where the amount of hours you work each month may vary, however your salary will be paid in 12 equal instalments over the year. You'll work 468 hours per year.
Contract: Fixed term - 12 months (with extension subject to circumstances). This can be discussed further at interview stage. Interview date: 1st July 2026
What its like to work hereYou’ll join a friendly and supportive Countryside team as part of the Norfolk Coast, Broads & Sheringham portfolio. You’ll report to an Area Ranger, who’ll help you settle in, support your development and guide your work. You’ll also work closely with local harbour users, fishermen and volunteers, becoming a familiar and trusted presence both on and off the water.

What you will be doing.You’ll spend much of your time patrolling the harbour, mainly on the hard but occasionally out on the water, ensuring it is used safely and responsibly. You’ll engage with harbour users, offer clear guidance, and confidently challenge unsafe behaviour when required, using strong leadership and communication skills to deliver effective water safety messages and maintain a well managed environment.

You’ll bring a strong understanding of different vessel types to support safe launch and landing operations - recognising vessel behaviour, spotting when something isn’t right, and giving practical advice to prevent incidents. You’ll also take responsibility for maintaining the Harbour Master’s boat, keeping it serviced, recorded, and ready for use. While most work takes place in summer, some winter duties are essential, including inspections and checks with the Countryside Team.

You’ll attend quarterly Brancaster Fairways Committee meetings, where you’ll share updates on how the harbour is being managed in line with the agreement between the National Trust and the Committee. You’ll also help identify any issues or hazards by keeping in close contact with the people who use the harbour every day.