On‑Water Marine Operations Lead

Cairns Adventure Group; Cairns Regional; On-site; AUD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Cairns Adventure Group is seeking an Operations Manager – Marine to oversee daily marine operations in Cairns. You will lead on-ground and on-water teams, ensure compliance with AMSA, maintain safety standards, and drive departures.

You’ll manage rostering, vessel availability, and liaise with regulators, with training provided for jet boat qualifications. This hands-on role requires strong leadership, practical problem-solving, and the ability to maintain guest satisfaction in a dynamic marine

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a similar operational leadership role.
• Strong leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
• Current Coxswain ticket (or higher).
• First Aid and CPR certification.
• Ability to drive boats and obtain the required Jet Boat qualification if needed.
• Strong organisational and time management abilities.
• Understanding of safety regulations and compliance requirements within the marine industry.
• Engineering tickets or knowledge.
• Experience using Respax and SharePoint.
• Knowledge of Work Health and Safety requirements, particularly in adventure tourism.
• Experience managing multiple vessels and teams in a marine tourism setting.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all marine operations, ensuring smooth, on-time departures and an outstanding guest experience.
• Operate vessels as required, including driving boats and obtaining the necessary Jet Boat qualification if not already held.
• Oversee vessel maintenance, servicing, and compliance with AMSA and other regulatory requirements.
• Perform minor mechanical repairs and troubleshoot operational issues, using practical problem-solving skills to find workable solutions when unexpected mechanical challenges arise.
• Manage rostering, vessel availability, and operational schedules to maximise efficiency.
• Maintain and update Safety Management System (SMS) documents and ensure all safety protocols are followed.
• Supervise and train marine staff, ensuring compliance with all required licences and certifications.
• Monitor supplies, stock levels, and operational resources to ensure seamless daily operations.
• Act as a key contact for Ports North, National Parks, and other external regulatory bodies, submitting reports as required.

Skills

Maritime leadership

Coxswain ticket

First Aid CPR

Boat operation

Jet boat qualification

Safety regulations

Work health safety

Respax

SharePoint

Vessel management

Leadership

Tools

Respax

SharePoint

Job description

Cairns Adventure Group is seeking an Operations Manager – Marine to oversee daily marine operations in Cairns. You will lead on-ground and on-water teams, ensure compliance with AMSA, maintain safety standards, and drive departures.

You’ll manage rostering, vessel availability, and liaise with regulators, with training provided for jet boat qualifications. This hands-on role requires strong leadership, practical problem-solving, and the ability to maintain guest satisfaction in a dynamic marine