Design Manager (Marine Manufacturing)

This is a rare opportunity to join a specialist marine safety manufacturer recognised internationally for high quality Marine Evacuation Systems and large capacity liferafts used on passenger vessels, defence projects, ferries, cruise ships and private yachts worldwide.

Liferaft Systems Australia (LSA) is a dynamic Tasmanian-owned business and world leader in the design, manufacture and supply of marine evacuation equipment. We are a leading supplier to the international ferry market supplying equipment to various international shipbuilders and ship operators throughout Europe, Asia, North and South America.

The company’s objective is to always produce a product that is synonymous with quality and reliability, whilst continually improving in design, technology and developing new products.

The Position

LSA is looking for a hands-on Design Manager to lead our design function from our Hobart-based production facility.

You’ll manage the day-to-day priorities of the design office while staying involved in the detail — from manufacturing  and vessel installation drawings through to product development, trials and technical support, and liaising with local and international clients and contractors.

The work will include:

• Coordinating the workload, priorities and deliverables for the Design office.

• The design, preparation and review of customer installation drawings for integration of products into vessels, and production drawings for in-house and subcontracted products.

• Creating technical diagrams and graphics.

• Working collaboratively on new product design and development.

• Providing practical and expert technical support to the business, stakeholders and authorities.

• Involvement in marine evacuation system installation, product development and equipment trials when required.

About You

If you’re an experienced Designer who enjoys technical problem-solving and seeing your work contribute to international marine safety outcomes, what are you waiting for!

We’re particularly interested in hearing from candidates who have the following skills and experience:

• Naval Architecture qualification preferred, with Mechanical Engineering or related discipline and project management qualifications both highly regarded.

• 5 years+ technical design and CAD drafting experience in a manufacturing or related environment.

• Strong AutoCAD skills and confidence preparing and interpreting detailed technical drawings and documentation.

• Experience supervising, leading or coordinating a design office or technical design team.

• A strong eye for detail, practical problem-solving skills and the confidence to work through technical design challenges within limited standardisation.

• Good communication skills and the ability to work well with manufacturing teams, customers, authorities, subcontractors and external partners.

The Benefits

• Innovative company producing world-leading products

• Working with a highly professional and supportive team

• Long term job security

• Excellent work life balance

• Time off over Christmas and New Year period

How to Apply

Applications close Wednesday 23 September 2026.

To receive a copy of the position description, email Mandy at ••••@LSAMES.com.

To apply, click the ‘Apply’ button and attach your resume, a cover letter outlining why you are interested in the position, and a two-page application demonstrating how you meet the Skills and Experience required for the position.

Australian Citizenship is strongly preferred due to the nature of the company’s Defence project work.

Applicants must be prepared to provide a Criminal History Check and undergo an Employment Medical Assessment, and may be required to obtain an AGSVA Baseline Security Clearance.