Primary purpose of position

The primary function of the Port Services Officer is to provide port services to shipping and to carry out protective security (including patrol/response duties) in accordance with instructions and as directed, acts as a systems operator in the Port Control Tower. This includes fulfilling the role of an “Authorised Officer” in educating port users, monitoring compliance, administering, and enforcing the requirements of the Port of Townsville Rules referred to as Port Notices. The Port Services Officer also fulfills a coordinating and security role in emergencies. In addition, the incumbent is also expected to perform the role of Coxswain or Deckhand on the Port vessels; qualifications permitting.

Position specific responsibilities

- Provide general port services to shipping ensuring ships are at correct berthing marks and necessary services are available and are connected when required

- Monitor the Ports perimeters and assets of the Port and Port users through regular patrols to contribute to the safety, security, and fire prevention of its assets

- Monitor security alarms and cameras to detect any irregularities and respond to security incidents as they arise by directing the patrolling Port Services Officer or Police

- Respond to security breaches and emergency situations as a patrolling Port Services Officer to assess the nature of the incident and respond as appropriate by contacting the relevant emergency services

- Monitor the security and safety of vessels berthed in the port area, crew, and their passengers; including escort of Very Important Persons (VIPs) and crowd control as required

- Monitor safety and environmental procedures within the Port area, including procedures related to the handling and storage of dangerous goods

- Administer the protected transfer of pilots or passengers to and from ships and overall safety of the vessel, crew, and passengers





- Monitor the activities of small craft, vessels, vehicles and personnel movement and cargo handling within the Port area to contribute to security, safety, and protection of the port environment

- Monitor the Port area including the Harbour, Ross River and Ross Creek for oil spills and other water/waterway and soil contamination

- Monitor the after-hours operation of the switch and security access control systems to contribute to Port security

- Allocate berths to commercial and naval vessels, the Port small craft and floating plant

- Visually and electronically (CCTV surveillance) monitor shipping movements and other activities in the harbour area including very high frequency (VHF) and ultra-high frequency (UHF) radios

- Monitor fire alarm panels and respond as necessary. Operate Berth 1 Fire Control Panel as required

- Monitor water and electricity meter readings compiled by Port Services Officer’s and check against Port of Townsville Shipping (POTS) database. Investigate and resolve any anomalies

- Respond to port emergencies and initiate oil spill procedures as per Port Spill response procedures

- Assist as Deckhand (qualifications permitting) on the Port vessels for pilotage or other functions as required including refueling, general maintenance and repair work in liaison with the vessels Master

- Input information regarding proposed shipping movements from shipping agents and other sources into the POTS database

- Actively provide positive input and solve day-to-day job problems and establish and improve work methods





- Liaise with RHM, Pilots, Ships Agents, Stevedores, Tug crews, Port Users, and the Ports personnel regarding shipping movements

- Perform other duties as allocated by Marine Services Supervisor and Manager Port Services

Essential criteria

Mandatory requirements/qualifications/tickets/licences:

- Current Queensland C class Driver Licence

- Pre-employment Medical - Functional 20kg.

Skills and experience:

- Experience or the ability to gain experience in security monitoring, operation of computer-based recording and storage systems.

- Sound knowledge of security monitoring systems and their operation and patrol procedures.

- Sound knowledge of shipping procedures, workplace health and safety, hazardous cargo rules and guidelines as well as the ability to respond appropriately to emergency situations.

- Demonstrated Knowledge of the Workplace Health and Safety Act 1995 and Environment Protection Act.

- Sound communication, decision making, problem solving, planning and organising skills, as well as a familiarity with computer-based information, recording and storage systems.

- General computer skills in Microsoft Office applications (e.g. Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

- All employees have an obligation to comply with the Workplace Health and Safety Act, the Ports Workplace Health and Safety policies, procedures and instructions to ensure a safe workplace.

- Must be capable of undertaking the physical demands and functions of the position (a pre-employment medical and the fitness for work policy as amended from time to time applies).

- Knowledge of the Dangerous Goods Act, Emergency and Disaster plans.

Software/Systems skills:

General computer skills in Microsoft Office applications (e.g. Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Note: Incumbents are required to perform shift work on an agreed roster.

📌 Port Service Officer - Casual (Townsville)
🏢 Port of Townsville
📍 Townsville