The State Dog Trainer is a specialist role that contributes directly to the operational capability of Queensland Corrective Services by developing, training, and assessing working dogs and handlers to meet the organisation's high standards. This position is responsible for delivering comprehensive dog-training programs that span the full lifecycle of operational dogs, from early conditioning and behavioural shaping through to advanced general-purpose and passive-alert drug detection work. The role requires a strong commitment to evidence-based training methodologies, ensuring all practices align with contemporary approaches and QCS policy. A key component of the role involves assessing dogs for operational suitability, advising on acquisition and replacement needs, and forecasting future capability requirements to maintain a sustainable and effective Dog Squad.
The State Dog Trainer will deliver both initial and refresher training to handlers, ensuring they are equipped with the skills, confidence, and operational awareness required for safe and effective deployment. This includes assessing handler competence, providing constructive feedback, and maintaining accurate training and assessment records in accordance with QCS standards. The role also supports the development and review of Dog Squad policies, training materials, and operational guidelines, contributing to continuous improvement and best-practice outcomes across the organisation.
Collaboration is central to this position. The State Dog Trainer will work closely with internal stakeholders, including correctional centres, Academy staff, and operational units, as well as external partners such as police, defence, and specialist service providers. Participation in interagency training, capability development initiatives, and cross-training opportunities is essential to maintaining high standards and ensuring QCS remains aligned with national and international best practice. The role also involves ensuring that training facilities, kennels, compounds, and equipment are maintained to a high standard, and that risk-management processes are consistently applied to safeguard staff, animals, and assets.
To be successful in this role, applicants will demonstrate strong experience in contemporary working-dog training methodologies, ideally within a criminal justice or similar operational environment. The role requires sound knowledge of dog care, behaviour, and breeding practices, along with proven capability in managing operational and security functions. Strong teamwork, communication, and problem solving skills are essential, as is the ability to plan, organise, and meet deadlines within a structured and policy-driven environment. Basic information-technology skills and a willingness to learn internal systems are also required. The position may involve travel, work outside standard hours, and temporary deployment to alternate locations, reflecting the dynamic and operational nature of the Dog Squad and Academy functions.
Applications to remain current for 12 months.This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Australia License.
