Tug & General Deckhand

Port Otago’s business is made up of a regional container terminal, multiple Supply Chain facilities, bulk port activities, cruise and property investment/development. We service South Canterbury, Otago, and Southland, working with customers to streamline their supply chains. Our culture is hands-on; safety focused and encourages continuous improvement.

About the role:

This is a rare and exciting opportunity for a suitably experienced Tug/General Deckhand to join our Marine and Infrastructure team on a permanent, full-time basis, working in a role that offers stunning views of the Otago Harbour.

As a Tug/General Deckhand you will be working on our Port Otago owned and operated vessels, particularly our Tugs and Pilot Launch, responsible for both deckhand and maintenance duties on these vessels. You may also be required to do relief work on other Port Otago vessels as required.

Work allocation:

In this role, you will provide cover for 24hrs/day, attending to all ship handling work required while rostered on. Rostering is based on an equal time roster.

What we’re looking for:

Our ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate the following:

A minimum of a Skipper Restricted Limits (SRL) <24m certificate or equivalent

Previous experience as a deckhand is an advantage

Working knowledge of marine equipment and procedures desirable

A true passion for Health & Safety, including excellent personal safety standards

A demonstrated strong work ethic, good time keeping skills, and an excellent communicator

A positive, collaborative attitude that embraces challenges with confidence

A willingness to complete all required training

The physical fitness to meet the demands of the role, and the ability to obtain a Seafarers Medical

The ability to work well as part of a team that requires 24/7 flexibility

What's in it for you?

Competitive base salary

Health insurance for you, your partner, and dependent children (valued at $8,800 p.a.) and Superannuation matched up to 7% after 6 months’ service

5 weeks annual leave

Why work for Port Otago?

A collaborative work environment which encourages people to be as great as they can be

A raft of other benefits, including but not limited to, health checks, fruit boxes on the vessels, free period products and various wellness initiatives throughout the year.

Contribution towards relocation costs to Dunedin, if you're interested in relocating to Ōtepoti Dunedin for the role

Heads up:

A full clean NZ Driver’s license is essential

You must be able to pass Ministry of Justice and ACC checks, a Seafarer’s medical examination and a drug and alcohol test as part of our recruitment process

Random drug and alcohol testing as an employee of Port Otago

How do I apply?

Please apply online via our website to ensure our Port Otago Application Form is completed.

Please ensure you include a copy of your up-to-date CV with your application. If you are not currently living in Dunedin, please tell us why you would like to move to this wonderful city in your cover letter.

Applications close 5pm, Monday 16th November 2026. We encourage you to apply early, as suitable candidates may be contacted before the closing date.

For a copy of the Job Description visit position-description---tug-general-deckhand---october-2026.pdf