Mechanical Engineers/ Naval Architects

G H Varley Pty Limited; Cairns Regional; On-site; AUD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Norship is seeking Mechanical Engineers and Naval Architects at an early stage in their careers to support vessel repair and maintenance in a hands-on shipyard environment. You will learn from highly experienced engineers, with direct exposure to real-world engineering challenges from day one.

The role emphasizes practical capability development, working with an established team, and opportunities to progress through guided mentorship within the Varley Group family.

Qualifications

• Experience in mechanical systems and shipboard equipment preferred.
• Ability to read engineering drawings and technical docs.
• Willingness to learn in a hands-on shipyard environment.

Responsibilities

• Support vessel repair, maintenance, and upgrade activities in a live shipyard.
• Assist with diagnosing mechanical and structural issues on vessels.
• Contribute to engineering investigations and root-cause analysis.
• Work with senior engineers and trades personnel to deliver practical solutions.
• Interpret drawings and specifications to support project execution.
• Assist in developing repair scopes and technical reports.

Skills

Mechanical engineering

Naval Architecture

Hands-on learning

Job description

Norshipis a Northern Australian based privately owned and operated company with a long and successful history in; Ship Repair; Heavy Industry; Engineering; Repair & Maintenance and In Service Support. Norship operates across Northern Australia from locations in Cairns and Darwin.

Norship has continued to grow into the highly respected Marine and Engineering services business that it is today, with a trusted reputation for delivering superior service, reliability, quality and specialist marine repair, engineering, in service support and maintenance and repair solutions.

Norship takes pride in having supported Northern Australian Maritime & Heavy Industries and the broader Far Northern community for more than 40 years. As a proud member of the Varley Group, we offer the stability, resources, and opportunities that come with being part of one of Australia’s leading privately owned companies

Norship is looking for Mechanical Engineers and Naval Architects at an early stage in their career—from final-year undergraduate through to approximately 5–6 years’ experience.

This is a hands-on engineering role within a shipyard environment, supporting vessel repair and maintenance. It is not a management position—we are seeking individuals who are eager to learn, contribute, and develop strong practical engineering capability.

A key differentiator of this role is direct access to highly experienced engineers and exposure to real-world engineering problems from day one. Candidates will gain hands-on experience that is not typically available in consultancy or office-based roles.

We place strong emphasis on attitude, work ethic, and coachability. Candidates who are motivated to learn and develop under experienced guidance will thrive in this environment.

We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and value different pathways into engineering, provided there is a strong foundation and a willingness to learn.

Duties will & responsibilities

• Support vessel repair, maintenance, and upgrade activities within an active shipyard environment
• Assist with the assessment, diagnosis, and resolution of mechanical and structural issues on a range of vessels
• Contribute to engineering investigations, including root cause analysis of equipment and system failures
• Work closely with experienced engineers and trades personnel to deliver practical, fit-for-purpose engineering solutions
• Interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documentation to support project execution
• Assist in the development of repair scopes, work instructions, and technical reports
• Conduct on-site inspections, measurements, and condition assessments of shipboard systems and structures
• Provide engineering support during vessel docking, refit, and maintenance periods
• Liaise with internal teams to support timely and efficient project delivery
• Ensure all work is carried out in accordance with safety, quality, and regulatory requirements
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives within the shipyard and engineering processes
• Actively engage in learning and professional development, building practical engineering capability under guidance from senior engineers

Applicants must pass pre-employment Drug & Alcohol testing.