Get to Know Us
With over 190 years of maritime experience, Svitzer is a global leader in towage and marine services. Across Australia and Papua New Guinea, our tug crews help keep ports safe, efficient, and moving. When you join Svitzer, you become part of a proud maritime tradition - and a team that works with purpose, discipline, and respect.
We currently have two exciting opportunities for experienced Tug Deckhands to join our team in Geraldton, WA:
* Permanent Full-Time (Rostered) – work an equal-time roster of 4- weeks on and 4- weeks off.
* 75% Permanent Part-Time (Order of Pick) – work on a 6-week cycle: 2 weeks first order of pick, 2 weeks second order of pick, followed by 2weeks off. This role requires a minimum of 137 workdays per year (equivalent to 75% of full-time hours) and may involve short-notice call-ins. You'll receive a fortnightly pro-rated salary.
Preference will be given to candidates who are local to the mid-west region or are willing to relocate at their own expense.
Why You'll Want to Join Us
Joining as a Tug Deckhand is a rewarding opportunity for those who enjoy hands-on maritime work and want to be part of a close-knit, safety-focused team. In this role, you'll handle a variety of essential tasks-from towage and mooring operations to equipment maintenance and environmental compliance-while gaining valuable experience under the guidance of a Tug Master.
How You'll Make a Difference
As a Tug Deckhand, you'll play a key role on deck and help keep the vessel running smoothly. Reporting to the Tug Master, your responsibilities will include:
* Carrying out routine checks, basic maintenance, and minor repairs on deck equipment and machinery
* Handling and securing lines during towage, mooring, and general vessel movements
* Inspecting and maintaining lines, including splicing and general rope care
* Managing stores and deck gear, ensuring everything is in good condition and ready to use
* Using computer-based systems to support maintenance and safety checks
* Following company procedures and marine regulations to ensure safe operations
* Supporting environmental compliance, including waste handling and pollution control
* Participating in drills, training, and operational improvement activities
What You'll Bring
To thrive in this role, you'll bring:
* A minimum General Purpose Hand Near Coastal Certificate of Competency or equivalent
* A valid AMSA Medical that matches your Certificate of Competency
* Current Provide First Aid and Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certificates
* A genuine interest in deck operations and getting involved in all aspects of towage work
* Experience handling ropes, lines, or operating winches is highly regarded
* A strong focus on safe work practices, procedures, and doing things the right way
* The ability to stay calm, think clearly, and adapt when conditions change
* The ability to work well with others, take direction, and contribute to a positive onboard culture
* The right to live and work in Australia
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.