Queensland Corrective Services Academy is seeking an experienced leader to manage the Statewide Dog Squad Operational Training Unit and oversee the capability, standards and readiness of QCS dog squad services.

This role leads the development of contemporary training methodologies, ensures compliance with legislative and operational frameworks, manages handler and dog training programs, and oversees asset governance, procurement and reporting.

You will provide expert advice on dog squad operations, support handler selection, maintain accreditation as the Drug Control Officer, and ensure safe, effective and consistent service delivery across high‑risk correctional environments.

This is a specialist leadership opportunity to shape operational excellence and strengthen frontline capability across Queensland.

Job details

Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) delivers safe, modern and responsive correctional services that support rehabilitation and reduce crime. The Manager, State Dog Squad Development & Standards plays a key leadership role within Queensland Corrective Services Academy, overseeing the capability, training and operational standards of QCS's Statewide Dog Squad. This specialist position ensures dog squad services remain contemporary, compliant and operationally ready to support high‑risk correctional environments.

The role manages the Statewide Dog Squad Operational Training Unit and maintains current knowledge of General Purpose and Passive Alert Drug Detection dog handling standards. You will oversee the development of training content, materials and operating templates, ensuring alignment with legislation, correctional centre frameworks and QCS procedures. A core responsibility is providing evidence‑based advice on training methodologies, operational practice and performance, using a continuous improvement approach to strengthen capability.

The Manager retains accreditation as the QCS Drug Control Officer and ensures the correct acquisition, management and use of illicit substances and training materials. You will oversee the coordination, delivery, assessment and recording of all dog handler and dog training programs, including new, annual and corrective training. The role also supports the selection of future dog handlers to ensure continuity of service and safe deployment across custodial centres.

The position contributes to the development and implementation of operational policies, techniques and standards, ensuring dog squad practices remain current and consistently applied. You will provide guidance on dog welfare, kennelling, behavioural issues and handler performance, ensuring compliance with Animal Welfare legislation, the Corrections Act and WHS requirements. The role also manages procurement and contract processes for dog squad assets, ensuring equipment, facilities and vehicles remain safe, accounted for and operationally ready.

The Manager oversees centralised records and registers, including training, risk, equipment, vehicle and dog deployment registers, and manages associated reporting and audit processes. You will manage dog squad budgets, forecasts and expenditure, ensuring financial accountability and alignment with operational needs.

Regular communication with custodial managers and dog handlers is essential to maintain compliance and support remote service delivery. The role also represents QCS in inter‑agency activities, knowledge sharing and cross‑training with organisations such as Queensland Police Service, Border Force, Defence and other corrective services.

The ideal applicant will demonstrate:

- Expertise in contemporary GP and Passive Alert dog training methodologies within secure environments.
- Operational experience in criminal justice, corrections or similar, with the ability to translate operational knowledge into training frameworks.
- Experience managing budgets, analysing trends and providing recommendations.
- Strong knowledge of Animal Welfare, Corrections Act and WHS legislation.
- Leadership capability and subject‑matter expertise to support a geographically dispersed workforce.
- High‑level negotiation, conflict resolution and stakeholder management skills.
- Strong interpersonal, written communication and reporting capability.
- Proven ability to manage risks, issues, suppliers and remote operational contexts.
- Strong organisational and coordination skills to maintain high‑quality capability services.

Applications to remain current for 12 months.

Further information

We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote human rights and diversity.

Please ensure you download all attachments and follow the instructions on how to apply.

Documents

Before applying for this vacancy please ensure you read the documents below.

• 693069 26 - Role Description (PDF, 629KB)
  
  
  693069 26 - Applicant Information Guide (PDF, 957KB)