Ship Area Coordinator

About the Opportunity

As the Ship Area Coordinator for Austal Defence Australia (ADA), you will be responsible for supporting the Ship Manager in coordinating subcontractor activities. This will ensure work packages are delivered safely, on schedule, and in line with quality and contractual requirements.

Operating across both project and construction environments, this role requires a balance of practical trade knowledge and structured project coordination. You will play a key role in enabling subcontractors to integrate effectively into construction activities while maintaining alignment with project plans, schedules, and delivery objectives

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, Philippines, and Vietnam.

Under the Strategic Shipbuilding Agreement, Austal is leading a new era of continuous naval shipbuilding in Western Australia. We’re driving innovation, supporting sovereign capability, and creating long term opportunities for Australian industry and workers.

Learn more at austal.com/ssa

This is your opportunity to contribute to projects of national significance. The maritime is now.

What’s Involved

• Coordinate subcontractor activities to keep work on track, ensuring alignment with project requirements, construction schedules, and key delivery milestones.
• Manage subcontractor performance to ensure work is delivered safely, on time, and to quality standards.
• Support onboarding and mobilisation, helping subcontractors integrate smoothly into site activities and Austal processes.
• Track progress and identify risks, delays, or constraints to maintain delivery momentum.
• Assist in resolving on-site issues, including technical queries, coordination challenges, and interface conflicts.
• Maintain accurate records and reporting, including performance, compliance, cost tracking, schedule inputs, and support for variations and change management.

You’ll Need 

• Trade qualification or hands on experience in a relevant discipline (e.g. Electrical, Fabrication, Fit Out, Paint, or Piping), with exposure to site based construction activities and work sequencing.
• Experience in a coordination, supervisory, or leading hand role within construction, shipbuilding, or a similar heavy industry environment. Strong organisational and coordination skills, with the ability to manage multiple subcontractors and competing priorities.
• Effective communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to work across trades teams and project stakeholders to deliver clear, practical outcomes.
• Solid understanding of safety practices, along with competency in Microsoft Office and working within structured project systems and processes.
• Eligibility for a Defence Security Clearance.

Why Join Us?

• Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• A supportive and dynamic work environment.
• Opportunities for career advancement within our growing organisation.

At Austal we are committed to providing a safe and inclusive work environment for all. We believe that achieving greater diversity will enhance our operations and as such we actively encourage Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders, people of all backgrounds, ages, sexual orientation, and those with Disability to apply. Veterans are also encouraged to apply.

Learn more at Careers at Austal Australia | Austal: Australia