Vessel Master, Environment, Tourism, Science And Innovation

Queensland Government; Townsville City; On-site; AUD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Travel allowances

Deployment opportunities across state

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Queensland Government is seeking a Vessel Master to command vessels up to 24 metres, including the 21m High Speed Landing Barge, Island Guardian, based in Townsville. You will lead safe, compliant operations and mentor crews across reef, coastal, and island environments.

The role involves extended deployments, remote work, and opportunities to operate across Queensland’s marine parks, with travel and deployment allowances enhancing earnings and development.

Qualifications

• Current Manual Driver Licence is required.
• AMS Master <24m NC (Master Class V) Certificate of Competency.
• Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 NC (MED 2) Certificate of Competency.

Responsibilities

• Lead safe and compliant vessel operations across reef, coastal and island environments.
• Demonstrate strong vessel command, navigation and engineering capability.
• Mentor crew and promote a positive safety culture.
• Coordinate vessel maintenance, inspections and compliance requirements.
• Support patrol planning, logistics and operational readiness.
• Assist with emergency response and environmental incidents.
• Be comfortable undertaking extended deployments throughout the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

Skills

Vessel command

Navigation

Maritime operations

Safety culture

Engineering capability

Crew leadership

Education

AMS Master <24m NC (Master Class V) Certificate of Competency

Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 NC (MED 2) Certificate of Competency

Job description

Purpose + People = Success
Purpose - We care for Queensland's natural places by building strong connections with people, wildlife, and the landscapes we protect
People - We are passionate, proud, and driven to be our best, working together to collaborate, innovate, and keep each other safe
Success - We create lasting, positive impact-where nature thrives, and communities value and connect with the environment
The Opportunity - OO5 Vessel Master (Permanent) | Townsville

Take command of departmental vessels and play a key role in protecting the Great Barrier Reef and Queensland's marine environments.

As a Vessel Master, you'll lead safe, compliant and efficient maritime operations aboard vessels up to 24 metres. Your primary vessel will be the 21m High Speed Landing Barge, Island Guardian, based in Townsville, with opportunities to operate across the broader fleet.

No two deployments are the same. You may be supporting marine compliance patrols, emergency response operations, island logistics, vessel audits, conservation programs or marine park management activities across some of Queensland's most remote and spectacular coastal and reef environments.

Before You Apply...
To be considered for this role, you must hold:

• Current Manual Driver Licence
• AMSA Master <24m NC (Master Class V) Certificate of Competency
• Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 NC (MED 2) Certificate of Competency

What You'll Bring
We're seeking an experienced maritime professional who thrives in remote environments and leads with safety, professionalism and strong seamanship.

You will:

• Lead safe and compliant vessel operations across reef, coastal and island environments.
• Demonstrate strong vessel command, navigation and engineering capability.
• Mentor crew and promote a positive safety culture.
• Coordinate vessel maintenance, inspections and compliance requirements.
• Support patrol planning, logistics and operational readiness.
• Assist with emergency response and environmental incidents.
• Be comfortable undertaking extended deployments throughout the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.
• **Experience operating vessels 17-24 metres, leading crews and working in remote or offshore environments will be highly regarded.

What We Offer
This is a unique opportunity to combine maritime leadership, adventure and environmental stewardship while building a rewarding career on Queensland's iconic reef and island estate.

You'll work alongside experienced maritime professionals and rangers, contributing directly to conservation, compliance and operational outcomes across the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

Benefits include:

• Diverse vessel operations across Queensland's marine parks and islands.
• Opportunities to work across a state-wide fleet.
• Meaningful work supporting conservation, compliance and incident response activities.
• Professional development and operational training opportunities.
• Attractive travel and deployment allowances that can substantially increase overall earnings.

Travel is a key part of the role, with deployments typically ranging from 7-10 days and up to 130 days annually at sea.

Applications will remain current for 12 months.

Job Ad Reference: QLD/706334/26

Closing Date: Tuesday, 17 November 2026

Vessel Master, Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation Townsville, Australia