The Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) is a State Corporation mandated to regulate, coordinate, and oversee maritime affairs in Kenya as outlined in the Kenya Maritime Authority Act of 2006 and the Merchant Shipping Act of 2009. The Authority also upholds obligations under relevant international maritime conventions to promote safe, secure, clean, and efficient maritime services.
In line with its mission to enhance the country’s maritime sector, the Authority is inviting applications from qualified, dynamic, and self-driven individuals to fill a number of vacant positions. This recruitment drive presents an opportunity to become part of a transformative journey in Kenya’s maritime industry.
The positions currently available are listed below along with their detailed job descriptions.
Position 1: Director General
Job Grade: KMAG 1
Reference No: KMA/DG/1/4/25
Number of Posts: 1
Job Description:
The Director General is the Chief Executive Officer of the Authority and is responsible for the overall strategic and operational management. The role includes:
- Providing leadership in the development and implementation of strategic plans and policies.
- Coordinating the Authority’s programs in line with national development goals and international maritime standards.
- Establishing strong relationships with government ministries, agencies, stakeholders, and the international maritime community.
- Ensuring operational efficiency and institutional accountability across all departments.
- Overseeing the formulation and implementation of sound financial and administrative procedures.
- Supervising top-level management and ensuring adherence to good corporate governance practices.
- Reporting to and executing the decisions of the Board of Directors.
Position 2: Senior Licensing and Seaborne Trade Officer
Job Grade: KMAG 5
Reference No: KMA/RP/6
Number of Posts: 1
Job Description:
The Senior Licensing and Seaborne Trade Officer is tasked with overseeing licensing and seaborne trade activities. Responsibilities include:
- Coordinating the issuance, renewal, and monitoring of maritime operation licenses.
- Ensuring that maritime operators and vessels comply with licensing requirements.
- Monitoring trade patterns and reporting compliance issues in seaborne activities.
- Developing periodic trade reports to support policy and operational decisions.
- Liaising with local and international partners to align Kenya’s practices with global standards.
Position 3: Licensing and Seaborne Trade Officer
Job Grade: KMAG 6
Reference No: KMA/RP/7
Number of Posts: 1
Job Description:
The Licensing and Seaborne Trade Officer assists in handling licensing procedures and trade assessments. The role includes:
- Receiving and processing applications for licensing of maritime operators.
- Supporting compliance inspections and audits in the maritime sector.
- Maintaining and updating licensing records and databases.
- Assisting in data collection and the preparation of maritime trade reports.
- Engaging with stakeholders and supporting awareness programs on licensing requirements.
Position 4: Senior Coxswain
Job Grade: KMAG 7
Reference No: KMA/RP/8
Number of Posts: 1
Job Description:
The Senior Coxswain is responsible for piloting small Authority vessels and leading navigation operations. The responsibilities are:
- Operating vessels for surveillance, inspections, and operational support.
- Supervising junior crew and ensuring adherence to maritime safety standards.
- Performing maintenance checks on vessels and safety equipment.
- Participating in search and rescue operations and maritime patrols.
- Keeping accurate records of vessel use, inspections, and repairs.
Position 5: Director, Maritime Education, Training and Labour
Job Grade: KMAG 2
Reference No: KMA/RP/1
Number of Posts: 1
Job Description:
This position provides leadership in the development of maritime education, training, and labor management systems. Responsibilities include:
- Formulating and implementing policies for training institutions and labor standards.
- Coordinating accreditation of maritime training institutions and monitoring compliance.
- Managing certification systems for seafarers and maritime professionals.
- Facilitating workforce development and supporting maritime human capital initiatives.
- Representing Kenya in regional and international education and labor forums.
Position 6: Director, Maritime Trade and Development
Job Grade: KMAG 2
Reference No: KMA/RP/2
Number of Posts: 1
Job Description:
The Director, Maritime Trade and Development provides strategic leadership in promoting maritime commerce. Key responsibilities are:
- Developing and promoting strategies for increasing maritime trade and investment.
- Coordinating trade facilitation programs, including partnerships with private and public stakeholders.
- Overseeing market research and economic analyses of the maritime sector.
- Promoting port development, logistics, and blue economy initiatives.
- Leading innovation efforts aimed at enhancing trade efficiency.
Position 7: Assistant Director, Training and Certification (Engineering)
Job Grade: KMAG 3
Reference No: KMA/RP/3
Number of Posts: 1
Job Description:
The Assistant Director, Training and Certification (Engineering) supports engineering-related training programs and certifications. Responsibilities include:
- Developing and updating technical training modules for marine engineers.
- Assessing applicants for engineering certifications in line with national and international standards.
- Auditing and inspecting training institutions for program compliance.
- Supporting technological advancement and engineering innovation in maritime services.
- Preparing engineering certification reports and policy advisory notes.
Position 8: Assistant Director, Research, Strategy and Planning
Job Grade: KMAG 3
Reference No: KMA/RP/4
Number of Posts: 1
Job Description:
The Assistant Director, Research, Strategy and Planning provides leadership in planning and analytical processes. Responsibilities include:
- Managing the formulation and review of strategic and operational plans.
- Conducting research to support maritime policy development.
- Tracking sector performance through data analytics and impact assessments.
- Producing planning reports and sectoral forecasts to guide decision-making.
- Supporting innovation and evidence-based policy formulation.
Position 9: Principal Administration Officer
Job Grade: KMAG 4
Reference No: KMA/RP/5
Number of Posts: 1
Job Description:
This role supports internal administrative functions across the Authority. The key responsibilities include:
- Coordinating administrative services including transport, logistics, and procurement.
- Supervising support staff and ensuring high standards of service delivery.
- Overseeing asset management, office utilities, and facility maintenance.
- Ensuring compliance with public service administration guidelines.
- Facilitating internal events, staff welfare initiatives, and official communications.
Application Procedure
Interested candidates should clearly indicate the position title and reference number on their application cover letter. All applications must be submitted along with the following:
Apply Here
Important Notes:
- Any form of canvassing or failure to comply with the instructions will result in automatic disqualification.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- Successful applicants must present clearance certificates from the Kenya Revenue Authority, Higher Education Loans Board, Directorate of Criminal Investigations, and a certified CRB report.
- Candidates must also provide a valid certificate of good conduct.
- All applicants must demonstrate integrity and comply with Chapter 6 of the Constitution of Kenya on leadership and ethics.
- The Kenya Maritime Authority is an equal opportunity employer. Women, youth, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Deadline:
All applications must be received on or before 1700hrs, 12th May 2025.
