Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) is seeking a strategic and experienced manager to lead marine safety and waterway operations across the Cairns Region, including Cairns, Port Douglas, Cape Tribulation, Karumba, Weipa and Thursday Island.

The Area Manager leads Waterways Operations teams, sets regional priorities, manages resources and financial programs, provides specialist maritime compliance advice, oversees safe vessel operations and work health and safety obligations and coordinates responses to maritime emergencies, pollution incidents and derelict vessels.

The role builds strong relationships with government, councils, community organisations and industry, and manages a team of nine direct reports.

Job details

The Area Manager, Cairns Region is responsible for strategically leading and managing Maritime Safety Queensland's marine safety and waterway operations across diverse and complex waterways. The position works under the broad direction of senior management and applies significant independent judgement to set objectives, allocate resources and determine priorities for the regional and statewide program of work.

The role leads Waterways Operations teams, including nine direct reports, and provides specialist advice on the interpretation, review and implementation of maritime compliance legislation and policy. It manages regional expenditure and financial programs, evaluates program outcomes, supports timely procurement and maintains operational readiness.

The Area Manager liaises with government bodies, regional councils, community organisations, action groups and industry, represents MSQ at meetings and forums and proactively manages stakeholder expectations. The role prepares accurate and timely responses to ministerial and general correspondence, enquiries and complaints. It also coordinates with adjacent regions to support vessel sharing, joint operations and aligned service delivery.

Operational responsibilities include preparing for and responding to maritime emergencies, pollution incidents and derelict vessels and overseeing vessel operations and work health and safety obligations so on-water activities are conducted safely and in accordance with legislative and organisational requirements.

To thrive in this role, you will demonstrate strategic leadership, sound and ethical decision-making, the ability to develop and mobilise talent, expert application of maritime legislation, strong governance and risk management, accountability for quality outcomes and enduring internal and external relationships.

Mandatory qualifications and conditions:
- Pass a Maritime Security Identification Card (MSIC) check, including a criminal history check.
- Hold a C class driver's licence and be willing to obtain further licence classes if required.
- Be available for on-call duties for 15 weeks per financial year.

TMR offers superannuation and leave loading benefits, professional development opportunities, a focus on employee health and wellbeing, and an inclusive workplace. For the full responsibilities, requirements and application instructions, please read the Role Description. Applicants should submit a current resume and a cover letter of no more than two pages addressing their suitability, particularly the requirements of the role.

We strongly encourage applicants from all life experiences and backgrounds to apply. Please tell us about any support or adjustments that will better enable you to participate in the recruitment process.
For questions about the role, contact Kris Chant on 0477 324 786.

Applications to remain current for 12 months. 

Job Ad Reference: QLD/705000/26
Closing Date: Thursday, 12 November 2026

Further information

We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote human rights and diversity.

Please ensure you download all attachments and follow the instructions on how to apply.

Documents

Before applying for this vacancy please ensure you read the documents below.

• applicant-guide (PDF, 322KB)
  
  
  705000 26 - Role Description (Word, 751KB)