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Get to Know Us

At Svitzer, we keep ports running and global trade moving - and that starts with our crews on the water. Our tug masters, engineers and deckhands play a vital role in delivering safe, reliable towage every day. If you’re someone who takes pride in doing things properly and being part of a tight-knit crew that looks out for each other - this could be the role for you.

Do you have a passion for safe, hands-on marine operations? If so, we’re looking for a Tug Deckhand to join our team in Newcastle on a casual basis.

As the role may require stepping in at short notice, preference will be given to candidates who live within two hours of the port 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.

It’s well suited for individuals with a strong work ethic, an interest in marine operations, and a commitment to doing things the right way. With ongoing training and a supportive onboard culture, it’s a great step for anyone looking to grow their career in the towage industry.

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.