The Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA), a premier state corporation operating under the Ministry of Roads and Transport, plays a critical role in the regulation, coordination, and oversight of maritime affairs in Kenya. Established under the Kenya Maritime Authority Act of 2006 and guided by the Merchant Shipping Act, 2009, KMA ensures that Kenya aligns with international maritime conventions while strengthening its local maritime infrastructure and personnel capacity.
In pursuit of enhancing service delivery and operational excellence, the Authority invites applications from visionary, self-driven, highly competent, and qualified individuals to fill key strategic and technical positions across several departments. This recruitment is aimed at reinforcing KMA’s human capital base to deliver on its strategic mandate effectively and in line with Kenya’s Blue Economy agenda and Vision 2030.
Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate a strong sense of professionalism, integrity, innovation, and commitment to public service as enshrined in Chapter VI of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010.
1. Director, Maritime, Education, Training and Labour
Job Grade: KMA 2
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER1/25/1
The Director of Maritime Education, Training, and Labour serves as a pivotal leader in the implementation of national strategies and policies that advance maritime education and the welfare of seafarers in Kenya. Reporting directly to the Director General, the officer will steer the Authority’s commitment to upholding international standards in training, certification, and labour regulations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Spearhead policy development on maritime education, training curricula, certification, and seafarers’ labour matters in accordance with STCW and MLC conventions.
- Guide the regulation, accreditation, and monitoring of maritime training institutions in the country.
- Coordinate Kenya’s representation in international maritime education and labour conventions and forums.
- Oversee audits and compliance checks of institutions offering maritime-related programs.
- Provide strategic leadership in licensing and monitoring seafarer registration and certification.
- Formulate frameworks for the continuous professional development of maritime professionals.
- Serve as the liaison between KMA and academic institutions, labour unions, training academies, and industry regulators.
2. Assistant Director, Training and Certification (Nautical)
Job Grade: KMA 3
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER1/25/2
The Assistant Director in charge of Training and Certification (Nautical) ensures that all nautical training and certification programs administered within the country meet international maritime standards and enhance the skills of Kenya’s seafaring workforce.
Key Responsibilities:
- Supervise the implementation of nautical education standards aligned with the STCW Convention.
- Evaluate training programs and examination processes for nautical officers and cadets.
- Validate the authenticity and relevance of nautical certification issued by institutions.
- Collaborate with shipping companies to assess the training needs of nautical personnel.
- Conduct inspection visits to maritime training institutions to ensure ongoing compliance.
- Draft technical papers and contribute to international maritime education discussions.
3. Assistant Director, Registration of Ships, Inspections and Survey
Job Grade: KMA 3
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER1/25/3
This role is central to the Authority’s responsibility for ensuring that vessels operating under the Kenyan flag comply with technical and safety regulations. The successful candidate will lead teams responsible for vessel registration, survey inspections, and certification.
Key Responsibilities:
- Coordinate the entire process of ship registration and deregistration under the Kenya ship registry.
- Oversee technical inspections to assess vessels’ seaworthiness, structural integrity, and regulatory compliance.
- Approve and issue statutory certificates following successful inspection and survey.
- Lead investigations into vessel accidents or non-compliance reports.
- Establish a digital registry system and inspection database for all registered vessels.
- Liaise with international classification societies on vessel inspections and safety compliance.
4. Port State Control Officer
Job Grade: KMA 3
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER1/25/4
The Port State Control Officer will be responsible for inspecting foreign-flagged vessels calling at Kenyan ports to verify compliance with international maritime safety, security, and environmental protection standards.
Key Responsibilities:
- Inspect foreign vessels under Port State Control (PSC) frameworks and conventions.
- Enforce the SOLAS, MARPOL, and ISM regulations for foreign ships within Kenya’s jurisdiction.
- Document inspection findings and follow up on deficiencies or detentions issued.
- Conduct random and risk-based inspections to promote compliance and deter violations.
- Collaborate with regional Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) inspection teams on cross-border maritime issues.
5. Principal Accountant
Job Grade: KMA 4
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER1/25/5
The Principal Accountant will lead the financial accounting operations of the Authority and ensure adherence to public sector financial reporting and budgetary control standards.
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare timely and accurate financial statements, reconciliations, and statutory returns.
- Implement sound accounting practices that conform to International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS).
- Monitor budgetary allocations and control expenditures within approved limits.
- Lead financial audits and respond to internal and external audit queries.
- Maintain accurate records of revenues, assets, liabilities, and commitments.
6. Principal Finance Officer
Job Grade: KMA 4
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER1/25/6
The Principal Finance Officer will play a strategic role in financial planning, forecasting, and resource mobilization in line with KMA’s objectives.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the formulation of annual and medium-term budgets for KMA.
- Analyze financial data and generate projections and cash flow management reports.
- Provide guidance on investment strategies and procurement planning.
- Develop internal financial controls and procedures to promote efficiency.
- Ensure compliance with the Public Finance Management Act and relevant circulars.
7. Principal Surveyor, Seafarers Training and Standards (Nautical)
Job Grade: KMA 4
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER1/25/7
The Principal Surveyor will be responsible for ensuring that nautical training and qualifications offered within Kenya meet international certification requirements.
Key Responsibilities:
- Monitor implementation of nautical standards in maritime training institutions.
- Evaluate instructors’ qualifications, training delivery methodologies, and assessment systems.
- Advise on the standardization and modernization of seafarer training equipment and simulators.
- Maintain a compliance tracking system for ongoing STCW amendments.
- Provide technical input into curriculum review and industry stakeholder consultations.
8. Principal Surveyor, Seafarers Training and Standards (Engineering)
Job Grade: KMA 4
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER1/25/8
The engineering counterpart to the nautical surveyor, this role focuses on the technical aspects of maritime engineering education and institutional audits.
Key Responsibilities:
- Review syllabi, training materials, and engineering simulator operations in training academies.
- Monitor academic performance and graduate competence indicators.
- Certify maritime engineering program compliance with STCW Code Section A-III.
- Assist in international technical audits on Kenya’s maritime training institutions.
9. Principal Maritime Labour Officer
Job Grade: KMA 4
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER1/25/9
The Principal Maritime Labour Officer will ensure seafarers’ rights are protected and that Kenya remains compliant with global labour conventions.
Key Responsibilities:
- Investigate and address seafarer complaints and working condition violations.
- Implement MLC 2006 provisions related to crew accommodation, contracts, and welfare.
- Provide legal and procedural guidance to employers and unions on maritime employment standards.
- Advise on policy and national law alignment with maritime labour conventions.
10. Principal Ship Surveyor
Job Grade: KMA 4
Number of Positions: Two (2)
Reference Number: KMA/ER1/25/10
The Principal Ship Surveyor will oversee the technical survey, certification, and inspection of all vessels operating under Kenya’s flag.
Key Responsibilities:
- Perform statutory surveys including hull structure, propulsion, safety systems, and pollution prevention.
- Analyze vessel design specifications and determine compliance with IMO codes.
- Supervise junior surveyors and verify findings before issuing certifications.
- Conduct port inspections and evaluate ship conditions for continued service.
11. Principal Surveyor, Search and Rescue
Job Grade: KMA 4
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER1/25/11
This role is crucial to KMA’s preparedness and response capacity for maritime emergencies along the Kenyan coast.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and operationalize the national maritime search and rescue plan.
- Conduct SAR readiness training for responders and coastal communities.
- Coordinate SAR operations and manage a centralized response database.
- Partner with regional search and rescue agencies for joint exercises.
12. Principal Surveyor, Maritime Security
Job Grade: KMA 4
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER1/25/12
This position ensures implementation and compliance with maritime security frameworks including the ISPS Code.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct ship and port facility security audits.
- Evaluate and approve maritime security plans submitted to KMA.
- Investigate breaches and recommend remedial actions in collaboration with security agencies.
13. Senior Maritime Transport Logistics Training Officer
Job Grade: KMA 5
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER2/25/1
This role entails developing and delivering specialized training programs on maritime transport logistics in support of Kenya’s maritime education and sector capacity-building agenda.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design and implement maritime logistics training modules for professionals and institutions.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of logistics training programs and update content to reflect global practices.
- Liaise with maritime academies to promote knowledge transfer on cargo handling, ship management, and port logistics.
- Facilitate workshops and seminars on transport chain efficiency and supply chain innovations.
- Monitor performance and issue reports on training impact in the logistics sector.
14. Senior Ports & Shipping Services Officer
Job Grade: KMA 5
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER2/25/2
The Senior Ports and Shipping Services Officer will be responsible for overseeing port operations and ensuring efficient shipping services in accordance with national and international regulations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Monitor port performance indicators and coordinate service improvement initiatives.
- Enforce compliance with shipping regulations and port state control requirements.
- Support shipping companies with registration and compliance queries.
- Collaborate with port authorities and stakeholders to streamline maritime logistics.
- Provide expert input into policy development related to shipping operations and vessel services.
15. Senior Administration Officer
Job Grade: KMA 5
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER2/25/3
The Senior Administration Officer will supervise the Authority’s administrative functions, ensuring efficient support services and compliance with institutional policies.
Key Responsibilities:
- Coordinate general administrative operations including procurement, office maintenance, and asset management.
- Develop and implement administrative strategies and standard operating procedures.
- Maintain service contracts, monitor administrative budgets, and oversee resource allocation.
- Ensure compliance with government and organizational administrative standards.
- Supervise junior administrative officers and clerical staff.
16. Legal Officer (Board Services)
Job Grade: KMA 6
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER2/25/4
This officer will provide legal support to the Board of Directors and ensure effective governance through sound legal interpretation and advisory services.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide secretarial services to the Board and its committees.
- Draft minutes, board resolutions, and corporate governance reports.
- Advise on legal matters affecting board decisions and statutory compliance.
- Coordinate board induction, evaluation, and training activities.
- Maintain records of board documentation in line with corporate policies.
17. Legal Officer (Legal Services)
Job Grade: KMA 6
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER2/25/5
The Legal Officer (Legal Services) will handle legal matters affecting the Authority’s day-to-day operations, contracts, and compliance frameworks.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide legal advice and interpretation of statutes relevant to KMA operations.
- Draft, review, and negotiate contracts and service agreements.
- Represent the Authority in legal proceedings and liaise with external counsel.
- Manage litigation files, complaints, and compliance registers.
- Conduct legal research to inform policy development.
18. Legal Officer (Maritime Governance)
Job Grade: KMA 6
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER2/25/6
The Legal Officer for Maritime Governance supports the legal and regulatory frameworks guiding maritime operations in Kenya.
Key Responsibilities:
- Review and advise on maritime regulatory frameworks and draft relevant legal instruments.
- Support enforcement of international conventions domesticated under Kenyan law.
- Monitor compliance with maritime laws, standards, and conventions.
- Facilitate legal training and awareness programs for stakeholders in the sector.
19. Office Administrator
Job Grade: KMA 6
Number of Positions: Two (2)
Reference Number: KMA/ER2/25/7
The Office Administrator will ensure seamless administrative support and coordination within departments.
Key Responsibilities:
- Manage office schedules, documentation, correspondence, and logistics.
- Organize internal and external meetings, record proceedings, and track action points.
- Maintain physical and digital filing systems for administrative efficiency.
- Prepare reports, letters, and presentations as requested.
- Support procurement, travel, and supplies requisition functions.
20. Surveyor, Seafarers Training Standards (Nautical)
Job Grade: KMA 6
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER2/25/8
This officer evaluates and monitors compliance of seafarer training programs in the nautical stream.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assess and audit nautical training institutions for STCW compliance.
- Evaluate syllabi, teaching tools, and nautical simulation equipment.
- Review the effectiveness of course delivery and student performance.
- Recommend accreditation, renewal, or revocation of approval for training providers.
21. Surveyor, Seafarers Training Standards (Engineering)
Job Grade: KMA 6
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER2/25/9
The officer will be responsible for ensuring engineering training of seafarers meets local and international requirements.
Key Responsibilities:
- Evaluate maritime engineering training courses for relevance and technical accuracy.
- Conduct inspections of simulator operations, workshop conditions, and instructor qualifications.
- Collaborate with curriculum developers to enhance engineering program quality.
- Participate in technical audits and produce recommendations on training improvements.
22. Maritime Labour Officer
Job Grade: KMA 6
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER2/25/10
The Maritime Labour Officer supports the implementation of seafarers’ welfare and labour standards within the maritime industry.
Key Responsibilities:
- Monitor the working and living conditions of seafarers aboard Kenyan-registered vessels.
- Review compliance with the Maritime Labour Convention.
- Address complaints from seafarers regarding employment terms and welfare.
- Support awareness creation on labour rights in the maritime sector.
23. Search and Rescue Officer
Job Grade: KMA 6
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER2/25/11
The officer will implement and support search and rescue missions and maritime emergency preparedness efforts.
Key Responsibilities:
- Maintain readiness of SAR equipment and coordinate response activities.
- Collaborate with national and regional authorities during SAR operations.
- Participate in training and simulation drills to enhance SAR capacity.
- Record and report all SAR operations in accordance with national protocols.
24. Marine Environment Protection Officer
Job Grade: KMA 6
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER2/25/12
This position aims to safeguard the marine environment from pollution and other harmful practices.
Key Responsibilities:
- Monitor pollution prevention measures implemented by shipping operators.
- Enforce marine environment conventions including MARPOL.
- Investigate marine pollution incidents and recommend enforcement actions.
- Liaise with environmental agencies on marine protection initiatives.
25. Licensing and Seaborne Trade Officer
Job Grade: KMA 6
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER2/25/13
The Licensing and Seaborne Trade Officer oversees the regulation of maritime trade licenses and monitoring trade flow statistics.
Key Responsibilities:
- Process applications and renewals for maritime business licenses.
- Maintain a database of registered maritime operators and traders.
- Analyze trends in seaborne trade volumes and submit reports.
- Promote compliance with shipping trade laws and policies.
26. Merchant Shipping Fees Officer
Job Grade: KMA 6
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER2/25/14
The officer manages merchant shipping fees and ensures financial accountability in collection and reporting.
Key Responsibilities:
- Compute applicable shipping and registration fees.
- Maintain an up-to-date register of fee payments and outstanding obligations.
- Collaborate with finance for receipting, reconciliation, and reporting.
- Support audits and reviews related to maritime revenues.
27. Legal Clerk
Job Grade: KMA 8
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER2/25/15
The Legal Clerk provides clerical and research support to the Legal Services Department.
Key Responsibilities:
- Organize and maintain legal documents, case files, and correspondence.
- Conduct preliminary legal research on maritime and corporate law.
- Support preparation of court documents and filings.
- Manage the legal registry and ensure document confidentiality.
28. ICT Assistant
Job Grade: KMA 8
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER2/25/16
The ICT Assistant will support IT infrastructure maintenance and user support services.
Key Responsibilities:
- Troubleshoot hardware and software issues.
- Maintain computer networks and system security.
- Assist in updating websites and system applications.
- Support users with email, printing, and digital communication tools.
29. Supply Chain Management Assistant
Job Grade: KMA 8
Number of Positions: One (1)
Reference Number: KMA/ER2/25/17
This officer supports procurement and stores functions in line with the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act.
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare procurement requisitions, quotations, and tender documentation.
- Assist in receiving, inspecting, and recording goods delivered.
- Maintain records of supplier performance and procurement plans.
- Support inventory management and asset disposal activities.
30. Driver
Job Grade: KMA 9
Number of Positions: Five (5)
Reference Number: KMA/ER2/25/18
KMA seeks professional drivers to support the mobility needs of departments and ensure safe and timely transportation.
Key Responsibilities:
- Drive official vehicles and maintain transport logs.
- Conduct routine vehicle checks and report mechanical issues.
- Ensure cleanliness and roadworthiness of vehicles.
- Observe traffic laws and safety regulations at all times.
31. Deckhand
Job Grade: KMA 9
Number of Positions: Two (2)
Reference Number: KMA/ER2/25/19
Deckhands provide essential assistance aboard Authority vessels and during maritime operations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist with docking, mooring, and loading operations.
- Maintain vessel cleanliness and assist in deck repairs.
- Handle ropes, anchors, and marine equipment during voyages.
- Support emergency drills and maritime field missions.
32. Office Assistant
Job Grade: KMA 10
Number of Positions: Two (2)
Reference Number: KMA/ER2/25/20
The Office Assistant will provide essential support services for departments across KMA.
Key Responsibilities:
- Clean and maintain offices, kitchens, and public spaces.
- Prepare and serve tea, refreshments, and meals.
- Dispatch documents, handle mail, and perform messenger duties.
- Assist with photocopying, binding, and filing activities.
