Get to Know Us

With over 190 years of maritime experience, Svitzer is a global leader in towage and marine services. Across Australia and Papua New Guinea, our tug crews help keep ports safe, efficient, and moving. When you join Svitzer, you become part of a proud maritime tradition and a team that works with purpose, discipline, and respect.

Why You’ll Want to Join Us

We’re looking to connect with experienced Mates who are interested in upcoming opportunities with our operations in Papua New Guinea. Based in Port Moresby, you’ll have the opportunity to work in a hands-on operational environment where your seamanship, judgement and leadership make a difference every day.

How You’ll Make a Difference

As a Tug Mate, you’ll be second in command and lead and manage your crew when relieving for the Master / in charge of navigational watch. Reporting to the Master onboard, your responsibilities will include:

• Coordinate crew attendance, provisioning stores, and ensuring operational readiness
• Ensure compliance with Svitzer policies and statutory obligations, including quality assurance and ISM procedures
• Manage crew discipline and escalating issues when necessary
• Supervise and assist with tug maintenance
• Prepare operational reports
• Conduct induction training for visitors, employees, and authorized personnel
• Lead and motivate the crew on safety management system compliance
• Adhere to roster arrangements and standing orders
• Engage in skills and competency training, including training other crew members and trainees

What You’ll Bring

To thrive in this role, you’ll bring:

• Valid Mate Class 3 Certificate of Competency from an approved regional maritime training institution (such as the PNG Maritime College)
• SOLAS Certification: Up-to-date Safety of Life at Sea training certificates certified by the NMSA
• GMDSS Certificate: Valid Global Maritime Distress and Safety System radio operator certificate
• A current NMSA Medical Fitness Certificate applicable to the Certificate of Competency
• Relevant experience in the maritime industry (harbour towage experience would be an advantage)
• PNG Passport with validity of more than six months

Ready to Apply?

If this opportunity feels like the right fit, we’d love to hear from you. Click HERE to submit your application via the Careers at Svitzer website.

Please make sure to apply by close of business 7 September 2026. We’re unable to accept applications by email.

We may begin the shortlisting process before the closing date, so we encourage you to apply early.

To Apply

To apply, email your CV and other relevant documentation to [email protected]. Please include the Job ID "#28254" in the email's subject to ensure your application is processed.