1st Mate - Permanent - Australia
Marine Engineer / Fabricator – Sweat Equity / Co-Founder Level Opportunity
Plastics Pirate is seeking a skilled Marine Engineer with strong fabrication and welding experience to join our 24 m Polish-flagged landing barge, Processor1, as we prepare for a pioneering pilot mission in the Arafura Sea ghost gear hotspot.
Role Overview
Maintain and optimise 1979 Mercedes Benz main engines and auxiliary systems.
Fabricate and install reactor mounting, bunding, spill containment, heavy-lift integrations, and field system supports.
Support onboard thermal conversion (ScrabTech reactor) operations — proven since 2022 with 84–93% yields from real unwashed marine debris (including Great Barrier Reef feedstock).
Contribute to mission planning, safety protocols, and the verifiable Evidence Package (IoT telemetry, media, impact metrics).
Hands-on work at sea: recovery, at-anchor processing (zero-discharge compliant), self-fuelling the vessel, and tech deployment to remote coasts.
What We Offer (Deferred / Equity-Based)
No immediate salary due to pre-pilot stage, but strong upside for the right person:
Significant equity / profit share or tokens in the project.
Future competitive pay once funded (target: pilot partner + impact funding in coming months).
Opportunity to become a formal partner / co-founder in a scalable ocean-impact venture.
Real adventure + tangible impact: turn ghost nets into fuel that powers essential services in remote areas. Documented mission will showcase your work globally.
Requirements
Strong marine engineering background (STCW or equivalent preferred; commercial vessel experience a plus).
Fabrication / welding / mechanical repair skills (essential for remote ops).
Problem-solver who thrives in challenging, resource-limited environments.
Passion for ocean conservation, circular economy, or remote deployment tech.
Ability to commit to the Arafura pilot and beyond (departure from Australia targeted in coming months).
If you’re someone who wants to build something meaningful instead of just another paycheck and who believes in freedom, submit your CV, relevant experience summary, and why this mission excites you
