About Us
At Svitzer Australia, we play a vital role in keeping trade moving safely and efficiently. With more than 50,000 vessel movements handled each year across Australia and Papua New Guinea, we're proud to support port and terminal operations through reliable, responsive harbour towage services.
We're looking for a locally based Technical Superintendent in the Karratha region to oversee the engineering and technical performance of our fleet which includes a high-performing pilot boat and five modern 80-tonne bollard pull ASD tugs. This is a hands-on role that offers the chance to apply your engineering expertise while staying closely connected to day-to-day vessel operations.
To be eligible for this role, you must either reside in the Karratha region or be willing to relocate. For the right candidate, relocation assistance may be provided, and a housing allowance will form part of the salary package.
Why Join Svitzer?
As the trusted towage provider for Woodside in Dampier, we operate in one of Australia's most vital energy corridors. With a strong safety culture and operational depth, you'll be part of a high-performing team that delivers consistent results in a demanding environment.
This is a key role where your impact on vessel reliability, safety, and performance will be direct and meaningful. You'll enjoy a balanced role that includes both office-based planning and on-site collaboration with our crews and vessels.
What You'll Be Doing
Reporting into the local Port Manager, you'll be responsible for:
* Providing expert technical guidance on vessel condition, availability, and ongoing maintenance strategies
* Overseeing the use of planned maintenance and procurement systems and supporting daily crew operations
* Developing and maintaining maintenance schedules, labour planning, and project timelines in coordination with the team
* Preparing dry-docking specifications, setting and managing maintenance budgets, and tracking technical expenditure
* Ensuring full regulatory and class compliance, including timely surveys and audits
* Managing stores, spare parts, and local procurement activities in alignment with operational needs
* Coordinating repairs, inspections, and third-party services to support fleet availability
* Leading the preparation of technical reports for internal and external stakeholders, including client reports and compliance documentation for Woodside and other port users
* Maintaining accurate records, logs, and engineering documentation in line with company and contract requirements
* Contributing to continuous improvement initiatives, technical audits, and operational planning alongside national technical leaders
* Provide leadership cover for the Port Manager during leave or other commitments, ensuring operational continuity.
What We're Looking For
To thrive in this role, you should have:
* Proven marine engineering experience, ideally supported by a trade or tertiary qualification
* Experience leading or supervising engineering teams, as well as managing external vendors and contractors
* Deep technical knowledge of diesel propulsion systems, power generation, hydraulics, and auxiliary systems
* Familiarity with AMSA, classification societies, and vessel survey and certification frameworks
* Strong written communication skills, with the ability to produce clear and accurate technical and client reports, asset records, and compliance documentation
* A proactive and analytical mindset with a strong focus on problem-solving and safety
* Ability to work independently with a high degree of accountability
* Competency in Microsoft Office and experience using digital maintenance systems or databases
This is a unique chance to bring your sea-going experience into a leadership role that makes a real difference onshore. To apply, please click on the "Apply" button to visit the job vacancy on the Careers at Svitzer website. Applications must be submitted by 31 August please note that applications sent via email will not be accepted.
We may begin progressing applications prior to the closing date, so encourage you to apply at your earliest convenience
Building a Diverse Workplace
In Svitzer we value the diversity of our talent and will always strive to recruit the best person for the job - we value diversity in all its forms, including but not limited to gender, age, nationality, race, sexual orientation, disability, or religious beliefs. We are proud of our diversity and see it as a genuine source of strength for building high performing teams.
Don't meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that members from some under-represented groups are less likely to apply for jobs if they don't meet every single qualification. At Svitzer we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles, and we are excited about hearing from you
How to Apply
To apply for this role, please click on the 'Apply Now' button and create a Candidate Home to manage your applications.