About the Opportunity
We are seeking an experienced and detail‑oriented Shipbuilding and Access Coordinator to support the delivery of safe, efficient, and well‑coordinated shipbuilding operations across Austal Defence Australia (ADA).
In this role, you will work closely with the Facilities Manager to coordinate access across active shipbuilding projects, ensuring scaffolding, access equipment, and work areas are safely and effectively planned to support production.
You will play a key role in enabling seamless vessel construction by ensuring access requirements are delivered without safety risks or scheduling conflicts, helping maintain operational continuity across multiple shipbuilding sites
About Austal
Austal is Australia’s global shipbuilder, Defence prime contractor, and maritime technology partner of choice. We design, construct, and support defence and commercial vessels for the world’s leading operators, with operations spanning Australia, the USA, the Philippines, and Vietnam.
Under the Strategic Shipbuilding Agreement (SSA), Austal is leading a new era of continuous naval shipbuilding in Western Australia—driving innovation, strengthening sovereign capability, and creating long‑term opportunities for Australian industry and workforce.
Learn more at austal.com/ssa
This is your opportunity to contribute to projects of national significance. The maritime is now.
What’s Involved
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Coordinate day‑to‑day shipbuilding access and support for all active projects
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Oversee scaffolding and access solutions to ensure safe and efficient workflow across production areas
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Manage contractors and monitor performance across shipbuilding projects
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Ensure compliance with WHS/OHS requirements, including safety checks and incident reporting
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Maintain housekeeping standards across all shipbuilding facilities
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Manage documentation, permits, and compliance records
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Support building access coordination and work closely with security for personnel and contractor access
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Assist with emergency response coordination and site safety systems
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Provide reporting and communicate planned works and impacts to stakeholders
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Identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives in shipbuilding operations
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Coordinate waste management and support environmental initiatives
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Build strong relationships with internal teams, contractors, and regulatory bodies
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Ensure alignment of access requirements with production schedules and operational priorities
You’ll Need
Essential
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Extensive experience (10+ years) in heavy industry such as shipbuilding, maritime, fabrication, mining, or oil & gas
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Strong experience coordinating facilities, access, or shipyard operations
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Proven experience managing contractors and working across multiple stakeholders
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Strong understanding of WHS/OHS and safety compliance in industrial environments
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Excellent organisational and coordination skills in a complex operational setting
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Strong communication and stakeholder engagement capability
Desirable
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Experience within defence, maritime, or highly regulated environments
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Knowledge of shipbuilding processes and vessel construction requirements
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Scaffolding certification or experience managing access systems
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High-risk work licences (EWP, forklift, rigging, etc.)
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Experience with permits (confined space, working at heights)
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Security clearance or ability to obtain one
Why Join Us?
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Competitive compensation and benefits package
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Opportunity to contribute to major shipbuilding projects of national importance
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Professional development and career progression opportunities
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A supportive and collaborative team environment
At Austal, we are committed to providing a safe and inclusive workplace for all. We actively encourage applications from Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders, people of all backgrounds, ages, identities, and abilities. Veterans are also encouraged to apply.
