Team Leader, Detector Dog Program

Strategy & Capability | Operational Coordination & Planning | Tactical Capability | Detector Dog Program

The position is part of the Detector Dog Program (DDP) section of the Australian Border Force (ABF). The DDP is part of the Tactical Capability Branch of the Operational and Coordination Division. The Tactical Capability Branch is responsible for specialised ABF support elements that include the DDP, national surveillance, national monitoring and digital forensics capabilities.

The DDP breeds, develops, trains and deploys high quality Detector Dog teams for the ABF. The teams are deployed to assist in the detection of illicit drugs, firearms, explosives and other controlled substances in/on imported/exported goods, vessels, aircraft and persons.

Our ideal candidate

The position is responsible for the promotion and application of DDP training, proficiency maintenance and deployment principles with a view to developing the operational effectiveness of Detector Dog teams within the region. This includes developing the technical capabilities of newly graduated teams from the trainee Detector Dog course and playing an active role in the annual appraisal process for experienced teams. 

Related responsibilities include identifying, addressing and reporting on barriers to Detector Dog team performance and utilisation, providing technical support to Detector Dog handlers and undertaking Team Leadership and supervisory functions.

Duties and responsibilities

• Mentor and develop dog handlers through a range of development and operational phases according to DDP methodologies and guidelines
• Actively contribute to the effective operational deployment of Detector Dogs using an intelligence-led, risk-based approach
• Lead Detector Dog teams in a variety of work environments, gather information and report on outcomes
• Through the provision of high level technical advice, monitor and develop the operational effectiveness of Detector Dog teams by assisting with the planning, implementation and review of training and operational deployments and by providing feedback to handlers on Detector Dog team performance
• Provide high level technical advice on Detector Dog training and operations to management and make recommendations in accordance with DDP methodologies and its annual appraisal program
• Assist the DDP in the delivery of advanced Detector Dog training and annual appraisals for Detector Dog teams
• Monitor the fitness, health and well-being of the Detector Dog teams in the region
• Assess risks and promote the appropriate methodology in regard to Detector Dog operational and training deployments with Workplace Health and Safety standards
• Build and maintain internal networks and establish and manage effective workplace relationships
• Establish and maintain external networks and conduct public demonstrations/awareness sessions of Detector Dog operational capabilities
• Deploy a Detector Dog in a variety of work environments as required.

Additional information

• Successful completion of a Detector Dog Course conducted by the ABF or other Commonwealth or State Government agency
• Ensure teams understanding and compliance ABF Policies and Procedural Instructions
• Take responsibility for managing work in a team, including assigning work, setting priorities, and monitoring workflow and standards
• Ability to work with minimal supervision
• Attention to detail
• Build rapport and maintain relationships with key stakeholders.
• Understand and apply relevant legislation, policy and guidelines
• Ability to meet deadlines
• Manage own workload and timeframes
• Collaborate effectively with team and Stakeholders to achieve collective goals
• Provide effective and constructive feedback and encouragement to others
• Candidates may be required to complete a work sample test as part of this recruitment process.

How to apply

Submit your application and CV through the Home Affairs’ recruitment system (ourPeople) before the closing date on 24/04/2024 at 11:59pm (midnight) AEST  – Late applications will not be accepted.

As part of your application you will be required to prepare and submit a one-page applicant response document in relation to the advertised role, outlining:

• How your skills, knowledge, and experience will be relevant to this role
• Why you are interested in the role and what you can offer us
• Any specific examples or achievements that demonstrate your ability to perform the role

Applicant response documents must be a minimum 11pt font in MSWord or PDF format, include your full name and the Requisition Number – 131104 in the document footer.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the position you must be an Australian Citizen.

The successful candidate will be required to obtain and maintain a Baseline Vetting (AGSVA) security clearance and an Employment Suitability Clearance (ESC).

Diversity and inclusion

The Department is committed to workforce diversity and applicants who are Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, come from a diverse cultural or linguistic background or have a disability are encouraged to apply.

Technical assistance

For technical enquiries please call or email for assistance:

Please include any applicable screen captures, a response will be provided during business hours.

Notes

The Department of Home Affairs offers an attractive remuneration package, including salary, superannuation benefits and flexible working conditions appropriate to the level of the position.

The Department may provide relocation assistance to eligible APS employees required to relocate. The level of assistance will vary depending on the reason for relocating and your personal circumstances. For further information please enquire with the contact officer listed in the advertisement.

Candidates should be aware that in roles where vaccination against COVID-19 is required by public health orders/directions or other legislation proof of vaccination will be required. If a candidate is not fully vaccinated or is unwilling to be vaccinated within a reasonable time period, they may not be offered that role.