ferry operations manager

Department for Infrastructure and Transport

Job reference: 697901

Location: ADELAIDE

Job status: Ongoing

Eligibility: SA Public Sector Employees only

At the Department for Infrastructure and Transport, we are connecting South Australia to keep our State moving. We are responsible for delivering a multi-billion-dollar pipeline of transformative transport and social infrastructure projects, operating and maintaining thousands of kilometres of roads and managing our city's public transport network.

Our work encompasses every part of our State; from our cities to our regions, connecting and strengthening community.

We value diversity and inclusion and foster an environment of collaboration, flexibility, and support for our people.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a motivated and capable Ferry Operations Manager to join our Commercial Marine and State Waters team. This unique opportunity is being offered at either the ASO6 or PO3 level, depending on the skills, experience, and qualifications of the successful candidate.

In this role, you will be responsible for managing the Department's River Murray ferry operations contracts, ensuring contractors deliver safe, reliable, and efficient services that meet community and departmental needs. You will oversee a broad range of operational responsibilities, including coordinating fuel deliveries, traffic surveys, and the management of ferry huts and signage assets.

The Ferry Operations Manager also supports reporting for the Kangaroo Island Ferry Service and other marine-based contracts, and may provide specialist technical advice on the delivery of Tall Ships, Ferries, and other Marine Assets. A key part of the role is engaging with contractors, stakeholders, and internal teams to drive service improvements, business efficiency, and positive customer outcomes across the ferry fleet.

This is an excellent opportunity for a professional who thrives in a dynamic environment and is passionate about delivering reliable transport services to communities across South Australia.

About You

You are a results-driven professional with strong experience managing complex projects, including budgets, resources, and risk, to ensure objectives and quality standards are consistently achieved. With highly developed analytical and research skills, you are confident in evaluating complex information, considering social, economic, and commercial factors, and providing clear, evidence-based advice and recommendations.

Your excellent written and verbal communication skills enable you to engage effectively at all levels, including negotiating outcomes and resolving conflicts with professionalism and tact. You are comfortable working under broad direction, demonstrating initiative and sound judgement, while also collaborating effectively as part of a team.

You bring experience in managing corporate records and databases in line with policies and legislative requirements, ensuring accuracy and compliance. With well-developed knowledge in your discipline, you provide expert advice on commercial considerations, risks, and strategic directions. You are proactive in applying risk management processes, including identification, mitigation, and contingency planning, to support the delivery of safe, efficient, and customer-focused outcomes.

Special Conditions

• A National Police Check (NPC) is required prior to employment in the Department for Infrastructure and Transport which must be renewed every three years.
• Some out of hours and weekend work, along with some intra/interstate travel requiring overnight stays, may be required.

Qualifications/Experience

ASO6:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field is regarded.
• Experience in Procurement, Contract management and Project Management is regarded.
• A current Drivers Licence is essential.

PO3:

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering providing eligibility for graduate membership as a Professional Engineer of the Institution of Engineers, Australia.
• Qualifications in Procurement, Contract management and Project Management is regarded.
• A current Drivers Licence is essential.

Tenure of Vacancy

Ongoing

Remuneration

ASO6 - $98,478 to $104,165 pa + superannuation

PO3 - $101,285 to $107,078 pa + superannuation

Enquiries

Grant Sommers

Manager Commercial Marine and State Waters

Telephone:

Email:

Application Instructions

Applications can be submitted online by clicking the 'Apply' button.

Applicants are required to submit a CV and a Cover Letter of no more than two pages addressing the selection criteria in the attached role statement.

Our Commitment

The Department for Infrastructure and Transport is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive culture across the department, planning for and promoting diversity and culturally safe workplace. We welcome and encourage applications from diverse community groups and ages including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, LGBTQIA+, people with disabilities and other diversity groups. The Department recognises the benefits that such an approach brings for our staff and customers in delivering the future of South Australia.

As a WE'RE EQUAL organisation we are committed to treating everyone equally, proudly promoting our department, and all its spaces as safe places for everybody.

Role Statement - Ferry Operations Manager (ASO6)

Role Statement - Ferry Operations Manager (PO3)

Applications close: 25/09/2025 9:00 PM

Flexibility Statement

The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part-time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.