Austral Fisheries is one of Australia's respected commercial fishing companies, operating a fleet of 11 vessels across the Northern Prawn Fishery. Known for investing in our people, safety and long-term careers, we're seeking one qualified tradesperson to join our Cairns-based marine engineering team.
This role is suited to a diesel fitter, electrician, or automotive/marine mechanic who wants to broaden their skills, work on complex plant and machinery, and step into the marine industry.
About the Opportunity
This is a shore-based role with occasional short trips to sea, working within a small, experienced engineering team and reporting directly to the Engineering Superintendent.
You'll be involved in vessel maintenance, breakdown response, refits and operational support, while also building valuable sea time toward a Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 (MED2) qualification, should you wish to pursue it.
This is a hands-on role with real variety, suited to tradespeople who enjoy problem-solving, fault-finding and expanding their skills beyond their core trade.
What You'll Gain
You'll gain exposure across a broad range of marine systems, including:
* Diesel and mechanical systems
* Refrigeration
* Electrical
* Hydraulic
* Propulsion
* Pumps and plumbing
* General ship superstructure and maintenance
If you're early in your career, keen to learn, and eager to expand your skill set, this role offers unique exposure across multiple marine engineering disciplines and build a long-term career - well beyond the typical scope of your current trade
Training & Qualifications
Austral invests in long-term careers and provides structured support, including:
* Support toward MED2 certification (once sea time requirements are met)
* Forklift licence
* Elevated Work Platform (EWP)
* Confined Space training
* Working at Heights
* Additional training as required
There are also opportunities to build leadership and supervisory capability as you grow in the role.
Pay & Benefits
* 40-hour working week
* Overtime opportunities available during refits, sea trips and Karumba operations
* Option to take overtime as paid overtime or time off in lieu
* Access to company vehicles for work purposes
* Strong career development supported by experienced industry mentors
* A chance to build a specialist marine engineering skill set that sets you apart from standard trade roles
About You
You'll bring:
* A relevant trade qualification in Diesel Fitting, Electrical, Automotive or Marine Mechanics
* A practical, reliable and proactive approach to work
* Willingness to learn new systems and step outside your core trade
* A positive attitude and strong work ethic
* Physical capability for hands-on, operational work
* Interest in long-term career development in a specialised field
Why This Role?
This is not a standard workshop job. It's an opportunity to diversify your trade, work on complex marine systems, and build a long-term career path few tradespeople get access to.
If you're ready to expand your skills and work in a challenging, rewarding marine environment, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply now with your resume and a brief cover letter outlining why you're the right fit.
Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Only candidates with valid rights to work in Australia will be considered for the position.