Marine Inspector

Role overview

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) is seeking a Marine Inspector in Townsville to support safe, compliant and environmentally responsible domestic commercial vessel operations. This is an ongoing full-time position offering a salary of $128,997 to $150,443 plus 15.4% employer superannuation.

In this role, you will use your maritime knowledge, judgment and stakeholder skills to help reduce risk across the maritime sector, strengthen compliance with legislation and contribute to better outcomes for seafarers, communities and the marine environment.

About AMSA

AMSA is Australia’s national authority for maritime safety, protection of the marine environment, and maritime and aviation search and rescue. The agency regulates vessel safety and seafarer qualifications, supports safe navigation in Australian waters, and coordinates national search and rescue services. Around 500 people work across Australia in a complex regulatory environment with national reach and long-term impact.

Key duties

As a Marine Inspector, you will carry out inspection, investigation and compliance work while acting as a trusted representative of the regulator. You will work with industry, government and other stakeholders to encourage a strong safety culture and deliver practical, risk-based regulatory outcomes.

• Carry out inspections, investigations and compliance activities linked to safe and environmentally responsible vessel operations.
• Represent AMSA in dealings with industry and stakeholders, offering clear, practical guidance and building trust.
• Encourage stronger safety practices through education, engagement and proportionate regulatory action.
• Work with colleagues across AMSA and with external stakeholders to deliver consistent, risk-based regulatory services.
• Use sound judgment and independent decision-making to manage competing priorities and assess compliance issues.

What you need

AMSA is looking for someone with strong maritime expertise, a collaborative approach and the confidence to make balanced regulatory decisions in dynamic operational settings.

• A commercial maritime Certificate of Competency, at minimum Master <35m (NC) or Marine Engine Driver Grade 1 (NC), or equivalent; alternatively AMSA Accredited Surveyor accreditation, or an equivalent maritime qualification with substantial experience in maritime safety, compliance, risk management or regulatory operations.
• Experience with Australian domestic commercial vessels or in a maritime safety, compliance or regulatory setting.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, along with the ability to build relationships and influence a wide range of stakeholders.
• Resilience and solid judgment, with the ability to stay effective in changing operational conditions.
• Ability to hold and maintain a Maritime Security Identification Card (MSIC), if required, and a current driver's licence.
• Behaviours aligned with One AMSA values and working practices.

Reward and benefits

• Competitive pay with salary packaging options.
• Employer superannuation contribution of 15.4%.
• 20 days of annual leave plus paid Christmas shutdown.
• Paid parental leave: 18 weeks for the primary carer and 11 weeks for the secondary carer, rising to 14 weeks from 1 March 2026.
• Wellbeing support including health reimbursements, flu vaccinations and an Employee Assistance Program for employees and their families.
• Flexible working arrangements, including work-from-home options.
• Career development support such as training, study assistance and paid professional memberships.
• Opportunities to connect with colleagues through staff-led networks.
• A work vehicle.

Additional information

This role is covered by the AMSA Enterprise Agreement 2024 - 2027. AMSA engages staff under the Australian Maritime Safety Authority Act 1990 rather than the Public Service Act 1999, and its pay arrangements are specific to AMSA.

How to apply

Submit your application through the Careers at AMSA portal by 11:55pm AEST on Wednesday 29 July 2026. You will need to provide a resume of up to 3 pages and a cover letter of up to 600 words addressing your suitability against the key responsibilities and capabilities for the role.

For more information about the position, contact Justin Williams, Manager Operations North, on 0447294951 or justin.williams@amsa.gov.au. Recruitment process queries should be directed to recruitment@amsa.gov.au. Applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted because recruitment is handled internally by AMSA.

About the workplace culture

One AMSA is the organisation’s commitment to a safe, respectful and inclusive workplace where people feel valued, supported and empowered to contribute. Collaboration, trust and shared purpose are central to the way AMSA works.