Warehouse Manager
About the Opportunity
Based in Cairns, the Warehouse Manager is responsible for leading the day-to-day operations of the warehouse while driving the remediation of systemic issues impacting safety, inventory integrity, service delivery, and efficiency.
This is a hands-on leadership role requiring an experienced operator who can stabilise underperforming processes, rebuild team capability and culture, and lead a strategic review of the warehousing function. The role is responsible for establishing and executing a clear transformation roadmap to support a high-performing, reliable, and scalable warehouse operation aligned to broader business objectives.
About Austal
Austal is Australia’s global shipbuilder, Defence prime contractor, and maritime technology partner of choice. We design, construct, and support defence and commercial vessels for the world’s leading operators with operations spanning Australia, the USA, Philippines, and Vietnam.
Our In-Service Support division provide routine servicing and preventative maintenance through to complex system overhaul; our maintenance solutions cover the full lifecycle of a vessel. We integrate original design knowledge with operational insights to ensure every intervention is cost-effective and aligned with customer requirements.
Backed by our extensive shipbuilding heritage and international supply chain, our global network ensures fleets remain mission-ready and performing at their highest capability throughout their operational life.
Learn more at austal.com
This is your opportunity to contribute to projects of national significance. The maritime is now.
What’s Involved
- Lead end-to-end warehouse operations ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient execution across receiving, storage, picking, dispatch, and inventory control.
- Take ownership of operational stabilisation by identifying and resolving systemic issues impacting warehouse performance and reliability.
- Implemen and enforced SOPs and work instructions to standardise processes and improve operational discipline.
- Improve inventory accuracy and traceability by introducing cycle counting programs and strengthening stock control practices.
- Ensure ERP system integrity (e.g., IFS) through accurate, timely inventory transactions and process alignment.
- Drive root cause analysis and corrective actions to eliminate recurring inventory discrepancies and process inefficiencies.
- Build and develop high-performing warehouse teams through coaching, mentoring, and clear definition of roles and KPIs.
- Foster a culture of accountability, ownership, safety, and continuous improvement across all warehouse levels.
- Lead process improvement initiatives using Lean principles, visual management, and cross-functional collaboration to enhance throughput and service levels.
- Conduct strategic warehouse reviews and supported transformation roadmaps, including capability uplift, system improvements, and compliance with WHS and governance requirements.
You’ll Need
- Demonstrated experience in warehouse operations, with leadership or supervisory experience
- Forklift license
- Driver’s License
- Eligibility for a Defence Security Clearance
Why Join Us?
- Competitive compensation and benefits package.
- Professional development and training opportunities.
- A supportive and dynamic work environment.
- Opportunities for career advancement within our growing organisation.
At Austal we are committed to providing a safe and inclusive work environment for all. We believe that achieving greater diversity will enhance our operations and as such we actively encourage Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders, people of all backgrounds, ages, sexual orientation, and those with Disability to apply. Veterans are also encouraged to apply.
Learn more at Careers at Austal Australia | Austal: Australia
