Jobs at South African Maritime Safety Authority

• Manage & Co-ordinate the National Maritime search and rescue capability within the South African Maritime Search & Rescue (SAR) area of responsibility through contact and co-operation between various role players. Ensure the MRCC delivers its services according to international standards & best practices as contained in the IAMSAR manuals and other pertinent national and international legislation

Job Description
SAR Operational Management
To ensure successful, effective and efficient SAR operations within optimum resource utilization.

• Overall management of the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC), which coordinates all participating search and rescue facilities within the SA maritime search and rescue area of responsibility.
• Maintain overall responsibility for maritime SAR operations coordinated by MRCC Cape Town, within the SA search and rescue region (SRR) and/or beyond.
• Maintain oversight of all established maritime Rescue Sub-Centres (RSCs) established to coordinate SAR operations within their delineated area of responsibility, within which the RCC cannot exercise direct and effective coordination of SAR facilities.
• Ensure that MRCC and RSCs conform to the SAR standards, practices and procedures, which have been established.
• Establish close liaison with other services, agencies and organizations, which have SAR potential.
• Establish liaison with SAR authorities of neighbouring countries to ensure mutual and effective coordination during combined AMSAR operations.
• Ensure that communication is established and SAR frequencies are assigned to units designated for SAR tasks.
• Establish communications with all other interested parties to ensure two-way alerting and dissemination of SAR information.
• Designate Search Mission Coordinators for maritime SAR missions
• Monitor maritime SAR missions until assistance is deemed no longer necessary, the rescue has been affected or the chance of success is no longer a reasonable possibility. Inform relevant parties when a SAR operation has been suspended or terminated.
• Promote the efficient and effective use of all available SAR resources
• Establish and define responsibility first when a SAR operation is to be executed on or near the border of an adjoining SAR area and take necessary action.
• Ensure a comprehensive MRCC SAR Plan is prepared, distributed and updated as necessary.
• Review SAR operations for continuous improvement of the South African maritime SAR response capabilities.
• Ensure the implementation of operational requirements as contained in bilateral and multilateral agreements.

Operational Liaison

• Develop, coordinate, administer, review and evaluate plans, policies, procedures, standards and training requirements for SAR cooperation and coordination.
• Chair and direct the SASAR Maritime Sub-committee and facilitate co-operation between national and regional role players to achieve operational readiness and search and rescue success.
• Participate as a member of SASAR Manco and Exco representing Maritime SAR (MRCC)
• Oversee the drafting of RSC SAR Plans by the RSC Chief(s).
• Evaluate SAR procedures for SA and the Southern Africa Region, and propose amendments as necessary.
• Participate in the drafting of the National SAR Plan
• Participate in drafting regulations pertaining to maritime SAR within South Africa
• Ensure effective management and implementation of the Cospas-Sarsat program in South Africa and the MSI contract between DoT and the service provider as required by SASAR.
• Promote close cooperation and coordination between civilian and military authorities and organisations for the provision of effective SAR services within the South African SRR.
• Ensure close cooperation among aeronautical and maritime SAR communities.
• Ensure the development of Contingency plans for the use of SAR resources during AMSAR MASS casualty events.
• Continuously uphold and promote the SASAR/SAMSA/MRCC brand.
• MRCC Focal Point for media liaison on matters related to maritime SAR operations, in liaison with SASAR and SAMSA’s Corporate Affairs office.

International Liaison

• Promote a harmonious working relationship between SAR Operational staff within the Southern African SAR sub-region as Co-chair of the Southern Indian Ocean Region (SIOR) MRCC Working Group.
• Facilitate workshops, conferences and other programmes for SAR, in consultation with SASAR.
• Ensure training and international SAR exercises are arranged in cooperation with the DOT and all relevant SASAR members.
• Ensure MRCC Cape Town establishes and maintains SAR points of contact, nationally, regionally and internationally.
• Participate in international engagements as designated by SAMSA and/or DoT. e.g. IMO, COSPAS SARSAT, IMRF etc.
• Render maritime SAR technical advice to the Department during bilateral negotiations, meetings and workshops.

Statistics

Ensure SAR operational statistical information is disseminated to SAMSA, DOT and SASAR as required

• Ensure proper analysis of statistics of all MRCC SAR operations is maintained.
• Analyze and distribute statistical data pertaining to maritime search and rescue-related matters.
• Make recommendations to the SASAR Executive Committee around improvements to the SAR system based on analysis of statistical data.
• Encourage the exchange of SAR statistics and analysis internationally and regionally.

Management of staff and resourcing

• Ensure staff administration, incl. roster management and welfare, is effectively attended to by the Operations Supervisor.
• Ensure the training of MRCC staff and continuous improvement.
• Monitor the effective performance management of MRCC staff to maintain professional competence for the successful implementation of the SAR operational plan.
• Nurture a conducive work culture, in line with applicable Policies and SAMSA values.
• Develop and administer the MRCC annual budget and business plan in line with the DOT-SAMSA Memorandum of Understanding.
• Implement the operational objectives in line with SAMSA’s Annual Performance Plan and Maritime Operations operational plan.

Job Requirements
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS 

Qualifications

• Grade 12 with Mathematics, and English, and
• National Diploma: Maritime Studies with a STCW Deck CoC – Management Level (Chief Officer/Master Mariner) or
• Naval Bridge Watchkeeping Certificate with command endorsement (service on a naval vessel of ≥24m)
• Equivalent qualification in Nautical Studies, NQF level 7.

Experience

• 5 - 7 years of experience in maritime SAR operations
• Supervisory/management experience advantageous
• Good knowledge of the COSPAS SARSAT and maritime communications systems.

Professional certification/registration

• Maritime Search Mission Coordinator or SAR Planner Certificate of Completion or equivalent.

Core Competencies

• Working knowledge of the SASAR Organisation, Operational Procedures and Processes for Maritime SAR
• International Conventions and Policies related to SAR
• Knowledge of the applicable AMSAR Conventions and legislations
• Investigate, plan and execute a maritime search and rescue operation
• Negotiation and conflict resolution skills
• Ability to communicate at various management levels and able to communicate with empathy
• Ability to work with people and foster teamwork
• Verbal Communication, report writing and presentation skills
• Organisational Skills Analytical and independent thinking, decision-making and motivational abilities

Deadline:26th January,2026

go to method of application »

• South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) was established in terms of the SAMSA Act 5 of 1998. The entity’s objectives are ensuring the safety of life and property at sea, preventing and combating pollution of the marine environment by ships and the promotion of South Africa’s maritime interest.

Job Description
Ship Surveys and Inspections: 

• Undertake all Statutory Surveys, Audits, and Inspections in accordance with applicable legislation and other    relevant regulations relating to Marine Pollution Prevention and Safety.  
• Give effect to our obligation under the Instruments relevant to the III Code (Tonnage, COLREGS, Load line, SOLAS, MARPOL)

Examinations and Accreditations: 

• Give full and complete effect to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and  
• Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), 1978 in accordance with the provisions of section A-I/8 of the STCW Code,   whereby all training, assessment of competence, certification, including medical certification, endorsement and  revalidation activities are carried out, by applying appropriate domestic legislation. Comply with the Quality 
• Standards System of SAMSA to ensure alignment with STCW. 

Legislation Regulations and Policy: 

• Review, recommend and contribute towards drafting maritime regulations and amendments. 
• Review and Draft Marine Notices and Marine Circulars.
• Review, recommend and Draft SAMSA Policies and Procedures. 
• Participate in ad hoc projects as and when required in line with level of responsibilities.

Casualty/Incident Investigations: Undertake casualty / incident investigations.

• Produce reports and make recommendations timeously.
•  Fulfil an expert witness role in a Marine Court of Enquiry.

Stakeholder Management: Provide consultancy services to Industry Stakeholders. 

• Participate in and report on local, regional, and international fora and make recommendations.
• Manage and engage with Stakeholders in accordance with SAMSA Core Values.

Job Requirements
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Master COC (Unlimited)
• STCW ancillary courses and any other equivalent training
• Maritime/Seagoing experience of 3 years

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS, TRAINING AND EXPIRIENCE

• STCW Compliant COC – Master (STCW II/2 – no limitation)
• STCW ancillary courses
• Sailed in rank of Master (seagoing experience)
• Maritime/Sea going experience for a period of 2-3 years in a management role.
• Driver’s License
• Own Transport (access to car or willing to get one start of employment) 
• Preferred Medical Clearance Certificate – obtained from a SAMSA approved medical practitioner.
• Ability to travel as and when required.
• Valid Passport

Deadline:26th January,2026

go to method of application »

• The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) was established in terms of the SAMSA Act 5 of 1998. It is tasked with the mandate of ensuring the safety of life and property at sea, preventing and combating pollution of the marine environment by ships and the promotion of South Africa’s maritime interests

Job Description
Contractual and Legal Advice

• Compilation and legal advice (and legal liability) on legal documents and contracts, Memorandum of Understanding, 3rd party contracts as well as MSP crew contracts and accompanying documents.
• Involvements and input (interpretation) on the Service Level Agreement that SAMSA MSP has with DEFF.

Regulatory

• SAMSA Regulatory Assistance – Providing legal advice (when required) to SAMSA flag personnel

Industry Relations and Crewing

• Handling all disciplinary matters on appeal
• Timeous administration of the onboard complaints received from crew in line with set procedures
• Assisting crew departments with labour disputes that are instituted in a forum outside SAMSA MSP
• Assisting with drafting of contracts for crew members to ensure it meets legal requirements and prevailing legislation.
• Attend to labour litigation for SAMSA MSP i.e. CCMA and labour court matters
• Maintain effective case management and act as liaison between Management and Union Representatives

Insurance 

• Ensuring that all insurance policies are kept up to date annually and that policy coverage meets required standards.
• Handling and submission of insurance claims (for crew medical or ship equipment) and ensuring that they are submitted timeously to designated insurers.
• Maintenance and updating of the Next of Kin system for seafarers in the event of loss of life.

Charterparty Agreements 

• Assist with initial negotiations with prospective charters, draft charterparty agreement with reference to specific requirements per agreement, compile final costs and invoicing for clients as well as prepare a final reconciliation of costs and profits for management.

Job Requirements
Minimum Requirements

Qualifications

• LLB Degree or BProc Degree
• Master's degree in Maritime Law

Experience

• Minimum of seven (7) years' experience in Commerical and Maritime Law, with experience/ exposure in the areas of negotiating techniques and litigations
• Admitted Attorney of South Africa

Competencies

• Knowledge of the MSA, MLC and other maritime related legislation
• Ability to interpret complex Conventions and Legislation
• Excellent knowledge of established International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and International Labour Organisation (ILO) Conventions. 
• Excellent knowledge of laws relating to the registration of ships and ship mortgages.
• Good knowledge of Administrative, Corporate, Environmental Maritime Laws, Employment & Labour Laws.
• Good knowledge of Government policies relating to statutory bodies.
• Working knowledge of Government procurement guidelines
• Ability to draft legal opinions.
• Work collaboratively with various individuals with varying backgrounds.
• The ability to draft MOU’s and similar agreements.
• Strong acumen for conducting legal research and legal strategies.

Deadline:26th January,2026

go to method of application »

• South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) was established in terms of the SAMSA Act 5 of 1998. The entity’s objectives are ensuring the safety of life and property at sea, preventing and combating pollution of the marine environment by ships and the promotion of South Africa’s maritime interest.

Job Description
KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS

• Registration & Licensing of ships: Determine and define the principal dimensions, tonnages and technical specifications/ characteristics of a vessel for approval by the Naval Architect, for the process of ship registration and licencing of vessels.
• Naval Architecture: Assess and comment on technical plans of vessels for the approval of the Naval Architect Vessel Plan Approvals. 
• Legislation/Regulations: Identify shortcomings in existing legislation and generate proposed amendments of existing or the drafting of new legislation from a technical perspective. Draft Marine Notices, Circulars, guidance documents and procedures in support of existing legislation for the approval of the Naval Architect.
• Administration: Assist in archiving and knowledge management. Attend committee meetings to contribute to technical and operational outcomes as requested by the Naval Architect.
• Casualty Investigations: Under the direction of the Naval Architect, assist surveyors with investigations into casualties of a specific technical nature where naval architectural input is required.

Job Requirements
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering with MSc in Naval Architecture or Bachelor of Science in Naval Architecture
• Preference will be given to candidate registered with ECSA and/or SAIMENA
• 3 - 5 years' experience within maritime sector will be an added advantage 

Deadline:26th January,2026

go to method of application »

• The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) was established in terms of the SAMSA Act 5 of 1998. It is tasked with the mandate of ensuring the safety of life and property at sea, preventing and combating pollution of the marine environment by ships and the promotion of South Africa’s maritime interests

Job Description
Client Management 

• Ensuring client specific requirements are met.
• Ensure accurate operational reporting
• Ensure accurate financial reporting
• Client Satisfaction

Contractual Oversight 

• Providing contractual / Legal oversight
• Meeting all client contractual obligations within budget and time constraints
• Negotiating and implementing Charter contracts / agreements for SAMSA MSP managed Ships.
• Supervision of all vessel insurance claims

Industrial Relations

• Provides oversight to all industrial relations procedures in accordance with Company Policy by:
• Coordinating disciplinary and grievance procedures by ensuring crew are aware of company procedures
• Arranging disciplinary hearings
• Attending hearings and chairing hearings where necessary
• Promulgating and executing the findings of such hearings
• Managing the Company’s Grievance/On-board Complaints procedure

Financial Management

• Provides guidance on budget preparation, cost management and payment of marine crew by:
• Assisting in the annual budgeting preparation by providing input in terms of anticipated crew costs for current clients
• Provide crew cost estimates for new clients as requested
• Maintaining a SAMSA MSP salary scale detailing the monthly and daily rates per rank and vessel type
• Reviewing, checking and approving payroll each month for all marine crew.
• Allocating cost codes to invoices for approval upon receipt and passing on to accounts for payment
• Monitoring costs by approving accounts related to travel and medical expenses

Staff Management

• Managing the activities and performance of the Crewing department
• Managing the activities and performance of the Engineering Supt.
• Managing the activities and performance of the Procurement division
• Conduct regular performance reviews with direct subordinates to instil a performance culture within the Department.
• Identify training and development requirements and assist in identifying appropriate courses.
• Manage department’s manpower availability to meet obligations whilst allowing for leave (annual and training).
• Oversee the functioning of the Nautical departments.
• Ensure fair distribution of work between department members to ensure that the Department’s goals and objectives are met effectively and efficiently.

General

• Perform any other duties that fall within the incumbent’s scope of ability as directed by the Executive Manager.
• Constantly seeks to improve the division’s effectiveness.

Job Requirements
Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in Maritime Studies, Logistics, or related field
• Certification in maritime safety or operations is a plus
• Possesses a valid SAMSA approved Certificate of Competence as unlimited Chief Officer/ Second Engineer Officer as a minimum  

Experience

• A minimum of 7-years’ experience with the Maritime Operations Management
• A minimum of 3 years supervisory/management experience
• Has strong SHE-Q awareness and compliance
• Displays good leadership and company values through interaction with clients, vessel crew and service providers
• Has a good understanding of people management.

Competencies

• Knowledge of the ISM Code, ISPS Code and the MLC
• Public Finance Management Act (PFMA)
• National Treasury Regulations
• Basic Conditions of Employment Act
• Employment Equity Act
• Skills Development Act
• Health and Safety
• Excellent Communication (verbal, written and presentation) 

Deadline:26th January,2026