General Purpose Hand

Searoad Ferries; Queenscliff; On-site; AUD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fantastic staff discounts

Free ferry travel

Job summary

Searoad Ferries is seeking a General Purpose Hand (GPH) to join our maritime operations crew on the Queenscliff–Sorrento crossing. You will assist with vessel operations, line handling, deck maintenance, safety drills and guest service, contributing to safe crossings and a high standard of presentation aboard our vessels.

The role requires a current AMSA GPH certificate, Safety Tickets (ESS), First Aid/CPR, and the ability to work weekends on a 7 days on/7 days off roster.

Qualifications

• Current AMSA General Purpose Hand (GPH) certificate or higher (e.g., Coxswain).
• ESS safety ticket, First Aid and CPR certificates (or willingness to obtain).
• Physically fit and able to work outdoors in all weather.

Responsibilities

• Vessel operations: assist with vehicle loading/unloading and monitor safety.
• Line handling: manage ropes and mooring lines during berthing.
• Deck maintenance and ship presentation to a high standard.
• Participate in onboard safety drills and incident response.
• Deliver friendly passenger service and assist with accessibility needs.

Skills

AMSA GPH Certificate

First Aid & CPR

Safety Awareness

Team Player

Customer Service

Education

Certificate I in Maritime Operations

Job description

General Purpose Hand (GPH) / Deckhand | Iconic Car & Passenger Ferries

About the Role

Are you looking for a maritime career that offers the perfect mix of rewarding hands-on work and unbeatable lifestyle balance?

Searoad Ferries is seeking a motivated, safety-conscious General Purpose Hand (GPH) to join our close-knit maritime operations crew. Operating the iconic vehicle and passenger ferry service between Queenscliff and Sorrento, you will play a vital role in ensuring safe crossings, maintaining our vessels to the highest standards, and providing exceptional customer experiences on the water.

Working on a rotating 7 days on / 7 days off roster (70 hours per fortnight), you will enjoy dedicated time off to recharge while building a long-term career with a premier Victorian tourism and transport operator.

Key Responsibilities

• Vessel Operations: Assist with vehicle loading and unloading, monitor cargo safety, and stand watch monitoring vessel conditions.

• Line Handling: Manage ropes and mooring lines safely during berthing and unberthing.

• Maintenance & Presentation: Take pride in keeping our ships pristine by executing deck maintenance (painting, scaling, scrubbing) and ensuring immaculate interior passenger areas.

• Safety First: Participate actively in regular onboard safety drills and serve as part of the incident response team.

• Customer Service: Interact warmly with passengers, provide directions, assist with accessibility needs, and share local geographic or wildlife insights.

What You Bring (Skills & Experience)

• Qualifications: A current AMSA General Purpose Hand (GPH) Certificate (Certificate I in Maritime Operations) or higher qualification (e.g., Coxswain).

• Safety Tickets: Valid Elements of Shipboard Safety (ESS), plus current First Aid and CPR certificates (or a willingness to secure them promptly).

• Fitness & Drive: Physically fit, capable of working active, long shifts, and happy to work outdoors in all weather conditions.

• The Right Attitude: Strong communication skills, a team-first mindset, a professional presentation, and a genuine customer-centric approach.

• Compliance: A current National Police Check (or willingness to obtain) and full availability to work weekends and public holidays as part of the rotating roster.

About Searoad Ferries

Connecting communities and tourists since 1987, Searoad Ferries operates a world-class fleet including the MV Sorrento, MV Queenscliff, and MV Peninsula Princess. Employing over 250 people across multiple award-winning tourism, cruise, and transport brands, we pride ourselves on a supportive workplace culture, environmental accountability, and operational excellence.

Our bus tour company Explore Australia / Naturaliste Tours connects customers to amazing tourism and wildlife experiences across Victoria. We also operate Western Port Ferries' services connecting Crib Point to French Island and Phillip Island in Western Port Bay, and Wanderer Adventures-Wilsons Promontory Cruises, located in the pristine environment of Wilsons Promontory National Park.

Why join Searoad Ferries?

• Be part of a growing team within a successful Australian group

• Supportive, down-to-earth culture and regular team events

• Fantastic staff discounts (retail, dining, hospitality) and free ferry travel