Project Assistant - Cairns

About the role

Located in Cairns, this Project Assistant position supports the Operations team with administrative, transactional, and general coordination tasks that help deliver vessel service visits and keep the Service Centre running smoothly each day. You will work alongside the operations group to collect project details and data, maintain administrative processes, and ensure quality records are completed and closed out properly. The role reports to the Office Manager.

About Austal

Austal is a global Australian shipbuilder, defence prime contractor, and maritime technology partner. The business designs, builds, and supports defence and commercial vessels for major operators, with operations in Australia, the USA, the Philippines, and Vietnam.

The In-Service Support division delivers everything from routine servicing and preventative maintenance to complex system overhauls. Its maintenance solutions support the full lifecycle of a vessel, combining original design knowledge with operational insight to provide cost-effective interventions that meet customer needs.

Supported by a long shipbuilding history and an international supply chain, Austal’s network helps fleets stay mission-ready and operate at peak capability throughout their service life.

This is a chance to contribute to work of national importance in a maritime environment.

Key duties

• Set up, update, and manage accurate systems and registers according to project needs.
• Deliver administrative support that promotes efficiency, accuracy, and effective prioritisation.
• Prepare and maintain detailed project documents, plans, and reports in line with Austal standards and project expectations.
• Support the Operations and Administration teams with general office administration tasks.

Requirements

• Diploma in Business Office Administration, or equivalent practical experience in administration or project support.
• Hands-on trade or operational experience, along with knowledge of the type of work being reported on.
• Strong capability in Microsoft Office, especially Excel and Word.
• Clear verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills with a professional approach.
• Good time management and organisational ability, including the capacity to handle multiple tasks and meet tight deadlines.
• Strong attention to detail with a track record of accurate, high-quality work.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team.

Why join

• Competitive pay and benefits package.
• Access to professional development and training.
• Supportive, dynamic workplace culture.
• Opportunities to progress within a growing organisation.

Additional information

Austal states its commitment to a safe and inclusive workplace. The company encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from all backgrounds, all ages, all sexual orientations, and people with disability. Veterans are also encouraged to apply.

No salary amount, vacancy count, start date, or application deadline was provided in the source.