Job Overview & Organization Mission

Coordinate commercial vessel arrivals, dynamic under-keel clearance (DUKC), and tugboat escort operations for Australia’s largest port.

The Port of Melbourne is seeking an experienced Senior Port Navigation & Marine Operations Coordinator based in Docklands. Working under the direction of the Harbour Master, you will coordinate commercial ship movements through Port Phillip Heads, manage dynamic under-keel clearance (DUKC) systems, and oversee tugboat towage allocations for ultra-large container vessels.

As a key member of the team at Port of Melbourne Corporation in Melbourne, VIC, you will play a central role in driving excellence, upholding top-tier Australian industry standards, and contributing directly to the strategic milestones of one of the nation’s premier employers.

Key Duties & Core Responsibilities

In this critical role, your operational duties and key performance responsibilities will encompass:

• Coordinate vessel: Coordinate vessel arrival, departure, and shifting movements across the Yarra River and Port Phillip shipping channels.
• Calculate dynamic: Calculate dynamic under-keel clearance (DUKC) windows for deep-draught container ships and bulk carriers.
• Liaise with: Liaise with marine pilots, emergency tug escorts, linesmen, and stevedoring terminal managers.
• Direct maritime: Direct maritime emergency responses, oil spill contingencies, and channel clearing protocols.
• Ensure adherence: Ensure adherence to the Port Management Act 1995 and Harbour Master’s Directions.

Required Qualifications, Licenses & Experience

To be successful in this position at Port of Melbourne Corporation, candidates are expected to satisfy the following essential selection criteria:

• Mandatory Qualification: Master Mariner / Class 1 Deck Officer or Bachelor of Applied Science (Nautical Science).
• Relevant Experience: Minimum 5+ Years of verified industry experience in Australia or recognized overseas equivalence.
• Master Mariner (Unrestricted) / Class 1 Certificate of Competency or Nautical Science degree.
• 5+ years sea-going experience as senior deck officer or shore-based port marine operations coordinator.
• Comprehensive knowledge of marine pilotage, Vessel Traffic Services (VTS), and hydrographic surveying.
• Exceptional decision-making ability under demanding navigational scenarios.

Core Competencies & Key Technical Proficiencies

The successful applicant will possess demonstrated capabilities across the following domain skill sets:

Salary, Compensation & Employee Benefits

At Port of Melbourne Corporation, we understand that our people drive our achievements. An outstanding remuneration and wellbeing package is provided in line with Australian benchmarks:

• Competitive Remuneration: AU$150,000 – AU$185,000 per year + standard Australian Superannuation (11.5%).
• Remuneration $150,000 – $185,000 + 11.5% super + performance bonus.
• Command a key role in the safe navigation of Australia’s primary maritime gateway.
• Prestigious Collins Street office with breathtaking views of Victoria Harbour.
• Leave Entitlements: 4 weeks annual leave (with 17.5% annual leave loading where applicable) plus 10 days paid personal/carer’s leave.
• Flexible Work: Progressive work-life balance options with supportive corporate culture and leadership development pathways.

About the Employer: Port of Melbourne Corporation

The Port of Melbourne is Australasia’s largest container and general cargo port, handling over 3 million TEU containers annually.

Port of Melbourne Corporation is deeply committed to building diverse, equitable, and culturally inclusive work environments. We proudly celebrate diversity and welcome applications from all qualified individuals including First Nations Australians, people with disabilities, and candidates from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Application Process & Next Steps

Applications for this position are currently open and being reviewed on a rolling basis. Suitable candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible before the published closing date.

Please prepare an updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a tailored Cover Letter highlighting your relevant experience against the key selection criteria outlined above.

To proceed with your application, click the Apply on Employer Site button to access the official Port of Melbourne Corporation careers gateway.