Job opportunity

Make Waves in Marine Leadership 

Working for the Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure (DTMI) allows you to play a part in connecting the people of Western Australia. We are a progressive organisation.  We are leaders in providing safe, accessible, sustainable, and efficient transport services and solutions that promote economic prosperity and enhance the lifestyles of all Western Australians.

The Waterways Safety and Management branch leads the behaviour‑change and compliance programs that keep WA’s navigable waters safe. Officers patrol by vessel and vehicle, deliver targeted safety education, and work closely with communities and industry to encourage responsible boating. It’s hands‑on, collaborative work with real impact, backed by a friendly culture and opportunities to contribute across Maritime projects. Enforcing legislation in partnership with State, Commonwealth and local authorities as well as local industry and the broader community. The branch collaborates across specialist teams and builds capability to make a visible difference.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a hands-on leader to supervise Marine Officers and champion boating safety across WA’s waterways.

In this dynamic role, you’ll manage patrols, enforce marine safety laws, command vessels, and respond to emergencies. You’ll liaise with a broad range of stakeholders and support aquatic events and infrastructure inspections. Bring your Coxswain Grade 1 certificate, strong boating knowledge, and team leadership experience to make a real impact in a collaborative, supportive environment dedicated to safe and sustainable waterway use.

Senior Marine Officers will be rostered on weekends with irregular start/finish times. Due to operational business needs, you may be required to participate in unscheduled, paid overtime hours.

There are 2 permanent positions available for immediate filling at our stunning Mandurah and Hillarys locations. This pool may also be used to fill other roles (should they arise) in Fremantle.

For further information about the role, we encourage you to review the attached Job Description Form (JDF), Senior Marine Officer Booklet and contact Graeme Meinema on 0483 003 526 and/or graeme.meinema@transport.wa.gov.au.

Suitable applicants will be placed in a pool from which appointments may be made for this or similar future vacancies (fixed-term or permanent) that arise within the next 24 months (from the date of first appointment) across the Department.

About you

• Lead and inspire a cohesive team to achieve high standards.
• Communicate clearly to resolve conflict and deliver effective reports.
• Apply expert boating and marine safety knowledge in diverse situations.
• Command vessels and maintain equipment to ensure operational readiness.
• Make rapid, sound decisions independently—especially under pressure.
• Thrive in a dynamic work environment, out of the office and bored by the standard 9-5 work week.

We believe everyone at the DTMI is a leader, contributing to our impactful work for the sector and community. We expect all employees to embody the behaviours and mindsets outlined in the Building Leadership Impact and Leadership Expectations. The leadership context of this position is Leading Others.

Our offer

• No hours go unrewarded – accrue penalties/allowances for work completed beyond your 37.5-hour rostered week.
• A level of job security that simply doesn’t exist in the private sector.
• Meaningful work that aligns with your values. Protect WA’s people, coastline and future.
• Spend your work hours supporting the management of Western Australia’s stunning coastline, and your personal time enjoying the lifestyle your efforts make possible.
• Work for an innovative Government agency with limitless long-term career prospects. 

We invite you to Be Part of Something REAL. At DTMI, we value real connection, growth, wellbeing, and purpose. Learn more about our commitment to you, here.  

Applying is easy

Apply online by clicking the ‘Apply for Job’ button and provide the following documents in Word or PDF format: 

1. A detailed resume that clearly outlines the skills and experience you have gained in relation to the job description.
2. A scanned copy of your valid Coxswains Grade 1 or equivalent.
3. Respond to the following three points in a single 2-page document:
   • Describe your experience with prosecution briefs and evidence handling.
   • Describe your experience supervising a team and how you have overcome a specific challenge faced in a supervisory role.
   • Briefly outline the high-powered vessel(s) you operate and maintain on a regular basis (professional, volunteer and/or recreational settings are all acceptable).

Please, nominate two (2) referees who can provide feedback on your capacity to meet the Work-Related Requirements. At least one of the referees should be your most recent, immediate supervisor. 

As a part of the selection process, shortlisted applicants may be required to complete online Psychometric testing prior to attending an interview.

Applications for this opportunity close at 3pm on Monday the 2^nd of February, 2026. Please ensure your application is submitted on time, as late applications will not be accepted. 

DTMI may conduct further search activities or extend the closing date, if required to supplement the field of applicants. 

Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace

The Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure is committed to building a thriving workforce that reflects the diversity of our customers and our community. We encourage applications from every background, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability, women, youth, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. 

If you have any support or access needs that may require adjustments to allow you to fully participate in this selection process (including an alternate format of the application form), have any question about the process or how to submit your application, please contact our Recruitment Team at recruitment@transport.wa.gov.au or (08) 6551 6888.