Canine Capability and Development Manager
We embrace diversity and strive to have a workforce that reflects the community we serve. We’re all about recruiting the best people, regardless of gender, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, or cultural background. If you think you can do the job and would be a good fit for our department, we’d love to hear from you.
The department is committed to the safety and wellbeing of children and recognises that children’s rights need to be respected, their views welcomed and valued, and their concerns taken seriously and acted upon.
If you require adjustments to the recruitment and selection process, or require an alternative format to any of the application material, please don't hesitate to get in touch with the contact person listed on this ad.
For more information on working with us and our recruitment process, please visit justice.vic.gov.au/careers
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| Department: | Department of Justice and Community Safety |
| Work Type: | Ongoing - full time |
| Job Function: | Prison and Corrective Services |
| Classification: | VPSG5 |
| Work Location: | South West - Victoria |
| Reference: | VG/10201_DEC |
| Closing Date: | 01-Feb-2026 |
| Salary Range: | $113,022 - $136,747 |
| Job Duration: | N/A |
| Attachments: | Position Description - 10201 - VPS5 - Canine Capability and Development Manager - Ongoing, Full Time - December 2025.docx (Word, 534KB) Job Specification |
| Contact: | Alexandra Heath on 0447 805 512 Alexandra.heath@justice.vic.gov.au |
Position Details
- Develop, implement and manage all aspects of the day to day and strategic training requirements of the Canine Portfolio.
- Ongoing, Full-Time Opportunity to work with a high-performing and passionate team in the Victorian Public Service
- VPS Grade 5: $113,022 - $136,747 plus superannuation.
The Department of Justice and Community Safety is seeking a Canine Capability and Development Manager to provide a critical role within Security and Intelligence Division.
About the Business Unit
The SESG provides security services and incident and emergency response to the correctional system. SESG is responsible for providing immediate and longer-term support through its diverse portfolios such as emergency and incident response, High Security Escort of prisoners, state-wide training services, barrier control, search and canine services, and management of firearms.
About the Role
The Canine Capability and Development Manager is responsible for all aspects of SESG's canine operations, excluding deployment. This includes administrative oversight, strategic planning, and comprehensive support for the training and welfare of both canines and personnel—namely Coordinators, Trainers, and Handlers. This is a demanding, senior-level role that calls for a distinctive combination of leadership and administrative expertise, along with deep knowledge in canine development and training.
The role is primarily based at SESG Western Plains and Ravenhall, although some state-wide travel and overnight stays may be required. The role may be required to work in metropolitan Melbourne, whilst there may also be some opportunity to work from home in accordance with Victorian Public Service guidelines.
Some of your duties will include:
- Develop, implement and manage all aspects of the day to day and strategic training requirements of the Canine Portfolio.
- Deliver reporting and meaningful data on the Canine Portfolio that provides high level analysis from all functional areas.
- Provide authoritative, expert, professional, technical and strategic advice regarding the Canine Portfolio to SESG leadership and SID on complex and or statewide issues, policies, procedures, guidelines and standards.
- Provide strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to assess and address challenges within the Canine Portfolio including operational issues and training gaps.
- Display a high level of dedication and commitment to the welfare of canines and the effectiveness of the Canine Portfolio.
To learn more about this role before applying, please read the attached position description.
About you
To be successful in this role, you will have:
- Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the SESG and the correctional environment that canines are deployed within.
- Demonstrated experience, and comprehensive skills and knowledge in canine development and training.
- Ability to manage a range of high level and complex change projects and service improvement initiatives.
Qualifications/requirements
- Comprehensive knowledge of the SESG and the correctional environment that canines are deployed within.
- Experience in the training and development of canines.
- A full and current Victorian driver's licence.
How to Apply
Please click the Apply button on this advertisement. Applications should include a resume and covering letter. Attachments can be uploaded in .doc, .docx, .pdf, .txt or .rtf formats.
The successful candidate will be required to undergo pre-employment checks which may include a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC) and misconduct screening.
If you require adjustments to the recruitment and selection process, or require an alternative format to any of the application material, please don't hesitate to get in touch with the contact person listed on this ad.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
CHILD SAFE STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT:
The Department of Justice and Community Safety is committed to the safety and wellbeing of children and young people. We seek to prevent harm of any kind impacting children and young people and have zero tolerance for racism, child abuse and inequality. Children and young people's rights, relationships, identity, and culture must be recognised and respected, their voices heard, and their concerns acted upon. We aim to foster a culturally safe, child safe and child friendly environment for all children and young people we have contact with, deliver services to, or are impacted by our work.
