The Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) is a State Corporation mandated to regulate, coordinate, and oversee maritime affairs in Kenya. Guided by the Kenya Maritime Authority Act, 2006, the Merchant Shipping Act, 2009, and relevant Maritime International Conventions, the Authority plays a vital role in ensuring safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible maritime operations.
The Authority is seeking to recruit highly competent, proactive, and self-driven individuals to fill the following vacant positions. These positions require individuals with proven professional capabilities, high integrity, and the ability to contribute to the Authority’s mission.
1. Senior Licensing & Seaborne Trade Officer
Job Group: KMAG 5
Posts: 1
Reference Number: KMA/SLTO/B/25/1
Job Description:
The Senior Licensing & Seaborne Trade Officer will be responsible for overseeing the licensing processes for maritime operators and ensuring compliance with seaborne trade regulations. The role includes the evaluation of applications for various maritime licenses, assessment of compliance with maritime standards, and facilitation of the issuance of relevant permits.
Key duties will include:
- Coordinating and supervising the licensing process for vessels, shipping companies, and related maritime businesses.
- Ensuring compliance with national and international maritime licensing requirements.
- Evaluating seaborne trade operations to ensure they meet required safety and operational standards.
- Reviewing and processing trade-related documentation for maritime imports and exports.
- Preparing regular reports and recommendations on licensing and trade compliance.
- Liaising with stakeholders to address licensing queries and issues.
- Conducting inspections and audits of licensed operators to ensure adherence to approved conditions.
2. Licensing & Seaborne Trade Officer
Job Group: KMAG 6
Posts: 1
Reference Number: KMA/LSTO/B/25/2
Job Description:
The Licensing & Seaborne Trade Officer will provide support in the processing and issuance of maritime licenses and facilitate the monitoring of compliance with maritime trade regulations.
Key duties will include:
- Receiving, reviewing, and processing licensing applications.
- Assisting in the preparation and issuance of maritime permits and licenses.
- Conducting preliminary evaluations of applications to ensure completeness and accuracy.
- Assisting in monitoring licensed operators to ensure compliance with maritime regulations.
- Preparing periodic reports and records related to licensing activities.
- Supporting investigations of non-compliance and providing recommendations for enforcement actions.
- Maintaining updated records of licensed operators and vessels.
3. Senior Coxswain
Job Group: KMAG 7
Posts: 1
Reference Number: KMA/SC/B/25/3
Job Description:
The Senior Coxswain will be responsible for the safe operation of maritime vessels under the Authority’s jurisdiction. The position demands expertise in navigation, vessel handling, and compliance with safety standards.
Key duties will include:
- Operating Authority vessels for inspection, monitoring, and enforcement activities.
- Navigating vessels safely in various weather and sea conditions.
- Ensuring vessels are maintained in a seaworthy condition and meet safety standards.
- Supervising crew members and assigning duties during voyages.
- Conducting safety drills and ensuring all onboard safety equipment is operational.
- Recording and reporting voyage activities, including inspections and incidents.
- Assisting in rescue and emergency response operations when required.
4. Director, Corporate Services
Job Group: KMA 2
Posts: 1
Reference Number: KMA/DCS/B/25/1
Job Description:
The Director, Corporate Services, will oversee the planning, coordination, and management of the Authority’s corporate support functions. This senior management position is critical in ensuring the operational efficiency of the Authority through effective human resources, financial, administrative, and ICT services.
Key duties will include:
- Providing strategic leadership in corporate services, including human resources, finance, procurement, ICT, and administration.
- Developing and implementing policies and strategies to enhance operational efficiency.
- Overseeing budget preparation, financial reporting, and resource allocation.
- Ensuring compliance with legal, regulatory, and policy requirements in all corporate services functions.
- Leading initiatives to improve internal processes and organizational culture.
- Coordinating with other directorates to align corporate services with operational goals.
- Managing risks associated with corporate service functions and implementing mitigation measures.
5. Principal Ports and Shipping Services Officer
Job Group: KMA 4
Posts: 1
Reference Number: KMA/PPSO/B/25/2
Job Description:
The Principal Ports and Shipping Services Officer will be responsible for coordinating port operations, shipping services, and related regulatory activities. This role ensures efficiency in port services, compliance with maritime regulations, and smooth facilitation of shipping operations.
Key duties will include:
- Overseeing and coordinating the day-to-day activities of ports and shipping services.
- Monitoring compliance with maritime and shipping laws and conventions.
- Liaising with port authorities, shipping companies, and other stakeholders to resolve operational issues.
- Developing and implementing strategies to improve port efficiency and service delivery.
- Conducting inspections and audits of shipping operations to ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards.
- Preparing analytical reports and advising management on policy and operational improvements.
- Participating in negotiations and agreements related to port and shipping services.
6. Principal Ship Surveyor
Job Group: KMA 4
Posts: 1
Reference Number: KMA/PSS/B/25/5
Job Description:
The Principal Ship Surveyor will lead the inspection and surveying of vessels to ensure compliance with national and international maritime safety and construction standards.
Key duties will include:
- Planning and conducting vessel surveys for safety, seaworthiness, and compliance with construction regulations.
- Inspecting ships’ structures, machinery, and equipment to ensure adherence to standards.
- Reviewing ship plans and modifications for compliance with maritime requirements.
- Preparing detailed survey reports and recommending corrective measures where necessary.
- Liaising with shipowners, operators, and shipbuilders to resolve compliance issues.
- Participating in investigations of maritime incidents involving structural or mechanical failures.
- Keeping abreast of changes in maritime survey regulations and implementing relevant updates.
Application Instructions
Applicants are required to indicate the position and reference number on their cover letter. Each application must include:
- A detailed curriculum vitae.
- Copies of relevant academic and professional certificates and transcripts.
- National Identity Card or Passport.
- Testimonials and other supporting documents.
Applications can be submitted in either of the following ways:
- Hard copy applications: Addressed to the appropriate recipient and delivered to the Director General or the Chairman, Board of Directors, Kenya Maritime Authority, KMA Towers along Mbaraki Road (next to the Little Theatre), Mombasa. Registered mail applications should be sent to the same address.
- Online applications: Submitted in PDF format as one running document to the respective email addresses provided in the advert.
Applications must reach the Authority on or before 1700hrs Monday, 1st September 2025 (for the new advertisement) or 1700hrs Thursday, 19th September 2025 (for the re-advertisement).
The Kenya Maritime Authority is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from qualified persons, including those with disabilities and women. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
