The role of Operational Support Coordinator is of key importance to the ongoing safe and reliable operation of the Searoad Ferries vessels and to the broader operational activities of the organisation.   The role provides technical and administrative support to all aspects of the organisations operations and drives key project related initiatives.  In addition, the role will from time to time perform vessel crew related roles commensurate with the Certificates of Competency and experience of the incumbent.  The role is responsible for assisting with the implementing of programmed inspection and maintenance activities across the broad spectrum of Searoad Ferries assets including vessels, terminals, wharfs and other shore-based infrastructure.  In addition, the role will assist with the development and implementation of the companies SMS, rostering arrangements and performance monitoring program. 

Key Performance Indicators

Safety and Reliability

• Develop and Implement Safety Management Systems
• Develop and implement policies, procedures and emergency response plans
• Assist with the development and implementation of emergency drills and exercises
• Develop and implement planned inspection and maintenance systems
• Ensure the safe operation of all plant and equipment at all times 
• Adhere to all company policy with regards to the safety in operating plant and the wellbeing of staff and customers 
• Ensure the reliability and efficiency of the vessel and all machinery
• Ensure the vessel is in a seaworthy state as to the condition of hull, equipment and machinery 
• Ensure adherence to company policy and procedures with regards to prescribed maintenance, procedures, safety and the environment 
• Ensure the safety of passengers and crew throughout the loading and unloading of foot passengers and vehicles
• Ensure all safety machinery is prepared for on board emergencies through regular testing, maintenance, drills and training
• Proactively seek answers to problems and faults in a timely manner
• Maintain clear and open communication between crew, management and other Engineers
• Manage all aspects of maintenance for the vessel in a timely and proactive manner

Excellent Experiences

• Ensure a high level of customer service and excellence throughout the customer experience chain
• Ensure the loading process is smooth, efficient, happy and informative
• Ensure that the vessel and the crew reflect all areas of company policy and procedure 
• Interact positively with customers and crew

Continuous Improvement

• Give regular feedback to management on how processes and systems can be improved
• Work with crew to develop skills and knowledge of engineering tasks
• Participate and inform regular training and drills

Value Add

• Understand what the customer wishes to receive for the price of their ticket – not just getting from A to B
• Assist crew actively engage with the customer throughout their time on board the vessel.

Financial Integrity 

• Ensure the highest levels of scrutiny and responsibility are maintained when dealing with staff issues, time sheets and rostering
• Manage all costs pertaining to the operation of the plant and equipment within the allocated operational budget

Key Relationships

Internal

• Ferry Crew - Masters, Mates, Engineers and GPHs 
• Maintenance Staff 
• Operational staff 
• Employees within other departments 
• Management team members

External 

• Ferry customers 
• Government bodies, Transport, Parks Victoria
• Service providers and suppliers - e.g. ship yards, contractors etc. 

Qualifications

Essential

• Marine Engine Driver Grade 2, Master <24 or higher 
• Elements of Shipboard Safety
• Senior First Aid - Level 2

Desirable

• Marine Engine Driver Grade 1, Master <35 or higher
• A formal qualification in management
• At least 5 years of experience in Australian Domestic Vessel operations
• A formal qualification in engineering, mechanical, boiler-making, diesel fitting

Knowledge

Essential

• A strong understanding of Vessel operations including maintenance programs, problem solving, repairs etc.
• A strong understanding of Safety Management Systems
• The ability to develop, implement and manage projects
• A detailed understanding of Marine Diesel engines (Cummins)
• A detailed understanding of Marine Plant Systems e.g., refrigeration, vacuum toilets, hydraulics, electric motors etc. 
• In depth understanding of commercial passenger vessel operations
• Ability to work with computers
• Understanding of national and state legislation and policy (National Law, Marine Orders, NSCV, WorkSafe, Navigation Act)

Desirable

• A working knowledge of the tourism or passenger transport industries
• Understanding of Safety Management Systems and their implementation

Experience

Essential

• Experience in Engineering or maritime operations within the tourism or passenger vessel sectors 
• Experience with engineering problem solving and proactive vessel maintenance
• Experience with working with computerized maintenance management systems 
• Senior First Aid Certificate 

Desirable

• Working with maintenance computer systems
• Experience within the tourism or passenger transport sectors 
• Experience with Azimuth and conventional drive systems
• Experience in implementing change 
• Experience in developing procedures or policy

Qualities

Essential

• A high level of leadership and managerial skills
• The ability to foster a positive safety culture 
• The ability to work a shift roster which includes long hours, weekends and public holidays
• Proactive and self-motivated
• Attention to detail
• The ability to work as part of a team
• A professional image 
• The ability to interact and maintain positive relationships with all staff 
• A high level of customer service
• Punctual, reliable and flexible
• The ability to work under pressure 

Desirable

• A practical and problem-solving outlook when completing tasks

Duties

Major Duties

• Manage the safe, efficient and reliable operation of all plant and equipment onboard a commercial vessel 
• Safely maintain all machinery, plant and systems 
• Proactively seek answers to problems and faults in a timely manner
• Train crew in the use and maintenance of safety items
• Ensure the safety and seaworthiness of the vessel 
• Oversee the daily management of all engineering tasks
• Ensure the vessel operations meets all key targets and continually strive for improvements to the service 
• Work with management to develop the current operations manual in relation to Engineering
• Work as a member of the Operations team
• Ensure a thinking, customer focused approach to all aspects of vessel operations
• Follow all company policy and procedures

General Duties

• Problem solve and manage all onboard mechanical issues 
• Deal with daily issues which may arise on the vessels 
• Oversee any mechanical issues and maintenance as required
• Complete the required duties of a Marine Engineer.  E.g.  Daily checks, maintenance rounds etc. 
• Assist as required with other duties on board the vessel 
• Follow all directions given by Master
• Work closely with the Operations Manager to manage all onboard maintenance  
• Attend to all engines, machinery and equipment on board to make sure it is safe, fully operational and well maintained.
• Assist in loading/unloading of the vessel during busy periods, which includes operation of the mezzanine deck and bow and stern doors.
• Maintain a machinery watch during operation.
• Maintain a safe workplace in the engine room spaces.
• Keep a written log of all maintenance and service work carried out.
• Maintain a daily and weekly log.
• Any other engineering work that maybe required, including liaising with outside contractors.
• Have positive interactions with customers and ensure a professional company image is maintained at all times