Whether you’re looking for a marine mechanic, shipwright, broker, apprentice, or marina operator, the quality of your job advertisement can make the difference between attracting top talent and receiving few, if any, applications.

The Marine Jobs – Find Your Next Career Facebook Jobs Board provides members with direct access to job seekers actively interested in marine and maritime careers. However, simply posting “Wanted: Marine Technician” is no longer enough. Today’s job seekers want to understand the role, but also your workplace culture, opportunities and lifestyle on offer.

Here are some practical tips to help your next job advertisement stand out from the crowd. 

  1. Start with a Compelling Job Title

The job title is the first thing candidates see. Be clear and specific:

  • Marine Technician – Yamaha Dealership, Gold Coast
  • Apprentice Boat Builder / Shipwright
  • Marina Operations Coordinator

A clear title helps job seekers quickly determine whether the role is relevant to them and improves visibility when people search the group.

  1. Sell the Opportunity, Not Just the Job

Explain who you are before listing the duties

  • Who are you?
  • What makes your business unique?
  • Why should someone choose your company?

For example:

Join one of Australia’s leading family-owned marine dealerships, operating for more than 30 years and representing some of the world’s best-known boating brands. Our team is passionate about helping customers enjoy life on the water, and we’re looking for a marine technician to grow with us.

  1. Clearly Outline Key Responsibilities

Applicants want to know exactly what they’ll be doing, be clear and concise:

Key Responsibilities:

  • Diagnose and repair marine engines
  • Conduct routine servicing and maintenance
  • Complete pre-delivery inspections
  • Liaise with customers regarding repairs
  • Maintain workshop safety standards
  1. Be Honest About Skills and Experience Required

Clearly separate:

Essential Requirements

  • Relevant trade qualification
  • Current driver’s licence
  • Experience with outboard engines
  • Strong communication skills

Desirable Requirements

  • Yamaha certification
  • Boat licence
  • Forklift licence
  • Experience with marine electronics

Helps candidates self-assess before applying and reduces unsuitable applications.

  1. Indicate, salary and benefits package where appropriate

Don’t list an exact wage, consider:

  • Competitive salary package
  • Negotiable based on experience
  • Performance bonuses available
  • Overtime opportunities

Transparency builds trust and increases candidate interest.

  1. Highlight Benefits and Lifestyle

Today’s workforce is looking beyond wages.

Consider including:

  • Flexible work arrangements
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Manufacturer training programs
  • Career pathways
  • Uniforms provided
  • Employee discounts

Don’t forget the lifestyle benefits of working in the marine industry:

  • Working around boats and the waterfront
  • Being part of a passionate boating community
  • Variety and hands-on work
  • Opportunities to develop specialist skills
  1. Include Location Details

Many people are willing to relocate for the right opportunity.

Instead of simply writing:

❌ Gold Coast

Consider:

✅ Gold Coast, Queensland – located minutes from major waterways and one of Australia’s largest recreational boating communities.

This helps candidates picture what life and work could look like.

  1. Add Photos

Posts with images consistently attract more engagement than text-only advertisements.

Consider including:

  • Your workshop
  • Marina or vessel fleet
  • Team photos
  • Recent projects
  • Training activities
  • Company events

People want to see where they may be working.

Authentic images often perform better than stock photography.

  1. Think Beyond Traditional Job Ads

Some of the most successful recruitment campaigns involve giving candidates a genuine glimpse into the business.

Create a Short Video

A simple 30-60 second smartphone video can be incredibly effective. It doesn’t need to polished, but can be warm and interesting

Feature:

  • The business owner
  • Workshop manager
  • Existing employees
  • Apprentices
  • The workplace environment

These authentic stories help candidates connect emotionally with the opportunity.

  1. Include a Clear Call to Action

Make it easy for people to apply:

  • Who to contact
  • Email address
  • Phone number
  • Link to website careers page

For example:

Interested in joining our team? Send your resume and a short cover letter to careers@company.com.au or contact John Smith on 0400 000 000 for a confidential discussion.

In today’s tight employment market, think outside the box

Want your advert to really stand out?

Consider:

✅ Employee testimonial video or day in the life videos

✅ Showcase a recent vessel project

✅ Feature apprentices who have progressed into leadership roles

✅ Share community involvement, boating events or sponsorship activities

✅ Include links to your website and social media

Remember: candidates don’t just want a job. They want to know what it’s like to work for your business.

By investing a little extra time into creating a detailed, engaging and authentic advertisement, you’ll significantly improve your chances of attracting quality applicants through the Marine Jobs – Find Your Next Career Facebook Jobs Board and strengthen the future workforce of our industry.

Need help with your recruitment advertising? Please reach out to maria@bia.org.au