Careers at Pentland Ferries & CalMac
This page is your guide to securing a job with Scotland's key ferry services, Pentland Ferries and Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac). Whether you're interested in the Pentland Firth route or the extensive network of the West Coast, we provide details on the latest vacancies and how to apply.
Working on Scotland's Ferries: An Overview
Scotland's ferry services are vital lifelines connecting mainland communities with the islands. A career in this sector offers stability, unique working environments, and the chance to be part of a crucial industry. Pentland Ferries and CalMac are two of the most prominent employers in this field.
Pentland Ferries: Careers & Fleet Information
Pentland Ferries is a family-run business known for operating the fastest ferry service between Gills Bay and St Margaret's Hope in Orkney. They operate a modern fleet of custom-built catamarans, including the MV Pentalina and the MV Alfred. As a smaller, dynamic company, they offer a close-knit working environment and recruit for a variety of ship and shore-based roles.
CalMac (Caledonian MacBrayne): Careers & Fleet Information
CalMac is the UK's largest ferry operator, running services to over 20 islands and peninsulas on Scotland's west coast. With a large fleet of varied vessels, they offer a wide range of roles, from seasonal summer positions to long-term careers with excellent training and progression opportunities. They are a major employer in the region, offering jobs for deck and engine crew, hospitality staff, and port-based personnel.
Current Job Vacancies (Examples for Both Companies)
Pentland Ferries Often Recruits For:
- Chief Officer
- Chief Engineer & 2nd Engineer
- Able Bodied Seaman (AB)
- Cook
- Customer Service Assistants for their shore offices.
CalMac Often Recruits For:
- All Deck and Engine ranks (from Officer Trainees to Masters)
- Hospitality and Retail Crew (Onboard Service)
- Port and Harbour Staff
- Seasonal and permanent roles are frequently available.
How to Apply to Each Company
To apply for a job at Pentland Ferries, you should send your CV and a covering letter directly to their HR department via email. Ensure your qualifications and experience are clearly listed.
To apply for a job at CalMac, you must visit the official careers section of the Caledonian MacBrayne website. They list all their vacancies online, and applications must be submitted through their official portal.
Company Contact Information
Pentland Ferries Head Office
Pier Rd.
St Margaret’s Hope
Orkney, KW17 2SW, Scotland
Phone: +44 (0)1856 831 226
Email for applications: hr@pentlandferries.co.uk
CalMac Ferries Ltd. Head Office
Ferry Terminal
Gourock, PA19 1QP, Scotland
(Note: For job applications, please use their official website as they do not accept CVs via email.)
Frequently Asked Questions about Scottish Ferry Jobs
Q1: What is the main difference between Pentland Ferries and CalMac?
A1: Pentland Ferries is a private company operating a specific route to the Orkney Islands. CalMac is a large, publicly-owned company operating an extensive network of over 20 routes along the west coast of Scotland.
Q2: How do I apply for a job with CalMac Ferries?
A2: You must apply directly through the official CalMac website. They have a dedicated careers portal where they list all their current vacancies. They do not typically accept speculative CVs via email.
Q3: How do I apply for a job with Pentland Ferries?
A3: To apply for a position at Pentland Ferries, you can send your CV and a covering letter to their HR email address: hr@pentlandferries.co.uk.
Q4: Does CalMac offer seasonal job vacancies?
A4: Yes, CalMac frequently hires seasonal staff, especially for the busy summer tourist season. These roles are an excellent way to gain experience in the ferry industry and are typically advertised on their careers website in the spring.
Q5: Are there jobs for non-seafaring roles?
A5: Yes, both companies hire for shore-based positions. Pentland Ferries hires Customer Service Assistants, while CalMac has numerous roles in their ports and corporate offices, including administration, finance, and marketing.
Send Your Application
Fill out the form below to apply for positions at this company