Rescue Capability and Development Manager

Location
Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127•Hybrid work
 
Benefits
Pulled from the full job description
Salary packaging
 
Full job description
Rescue Capability and Development Manager

Location: Hybrid working arrangements apply to this role, with the office located in Homebush NSW. Applicants outside of Sydney are encouraged to apply.

Total remuneration package: A competitive NGO salary package, with access to Not-For-Profit (NFP) salary packaging benefits.

Lead Rescue Capability for one of NSWs most trusted volunteer agencies

VRA Rescue NSW is a 24/7 volunteer-based emergency service with a proud legacy of protecting communities across regional and rural New South Wales. Our squads deliver specialist rescue services including Road Crash Rescue, General Land Rescue, Vertical Rescue, Flood Rescue, Search and Rescue (including SAR Dogs), Cave Rescue, and Emergency Communications.

We are seeking a Rescue Capability and Development Manager to take a lead role in shaping the future of operational readiness and training across our organisation. This is a strategic, hands-on role that will oversee the design, delivery, and evaluation of capability-building programs to ensure our volunteers are always prepared to respond safely, effectively and professionally.

What you'll be doing

Drive state-wide rescue capability programs that align with national and state emergency service priorities.
Lead the development and implementation of operational frameworks, training, and specialist programs.
Identify emerging trends, technologies, and capability gaps to support continuous improvement.
Collaborate with internal teams, government agencies, and emergency service partners.
Ensure compliance with all rescue accreditation, WHS, and operational standards.
What we are looking For

Essential criteria:

Tertiary qualifications in Emergency Management.
Australasian Inter-Service Incident Management System (AIIMS) Course or equivalent.
Minimum 10 years experience in emergency services, with significant experience in rescue operations.
Demonstrated experience in effectively building, developing, and leading teams, including managing professional development.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Proven experience in project management.
Intimate knowledge of the workings of emergency services and emergency management committees, including applied knowledge of relevant legislation, policies, protocols, and procedures.
Detailed knowledge of VRA Rescue NSW roles and responsibilities.
Demonstrated experience in a volunteer-based emergency services organisation.
Willingness and ability to travel.
Unrestricted Class C or higher drivers licence.
Desirable:

Degree level qualification in Emergency Management, Public Safety, Project Management or a related discipline.
Why join VRA Rescue NSW?

Influence strategy and drive innovation across specialist rescue disciplines.
Work with passionate, highly skilled volunteers across the state.
Be part of a purpose-led organisation that saves lives across regional NSW.
Support and empower an exceptional and expanding force of 1,300+ volunteers across 40 locations, driving life-saving results across NSW.
Directly contribute to the advancement of rural and regional resilience.
Access to professional development, salary packaging and a fleet vehicle.
Join a leadership team that values respect, transparency and service.
Enjoy hybrid work arrangements and access to NFP salary packaging.
How to apply

Ready to make a difference?

To apply in this unique opportunity, please submit:

A cover letter outlining how you meet the experience and essential requirements for the role.
A detailed CV.
Applications close: Monday 11 August 2025

For a confidential discussion, contact the Office of the Commissioner via careers@vrarescue.org.au

Shortlisted candidates may be invited to complete capability or personality assessments as part of the process.

We welcome all applicants

VRA Rescue NSW embraces diversity and inclusion. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, women, LGBTIQA+ individuals and people with disability.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $115,000.00 – $125,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Salary packaging
Licence/Certification:

Driver Licence (Required)
Work Authorisation:

Australia (Required)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127

Application Deadline: 11/08/2025

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