About our team National Operations | Operational Coordination & Planning | Tactical Capability | Detector Dog Program Branch Overview The position is part of the Detector Dog Program (DDP) section of the Australian Border Force (ABF). It sits in the Technical Support on Operations Branch of the Operational Coordination and Planning Division. The Technical Support on Operations Branch is responsible for the ABF's Detector Dog Program, national surveillance capabilities and digital forensics capability. The Technical Support on Operations Branch Plans, delivers and manages essential close support capabilities to frontline operations Assures that these key capabilities are delivered in effective and efficient ways Provides leadership, direction, oversight and/or support to ABF capability projects Provides advice to the ABF Executive on capability needs, issues and opportunities. Section Overview The DDP breed, develop, train and deploy high quality detector dog teams for the ABF and partner domestic and international agencies. 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. Please visit our website for more information about the Department of Home Affairs or Australian Border Force Our ideal candidate This position is responsible for supervision of dog welfare, development of juvenile dogs, and foundation training of juvenile dogs for the ABF. The position plays a leading role in educating DDP foster carers. The occupant of this position will liaise regularly with members of the general public, Australian and overseas agencies and other members of the DDP as required. The occupant of this position undertakes complex activities under limited direction and is responsible for the training of all DDP staff in juvenile dog development. The occupant of this position has a high-level understanding of relevant legislation and policy frameworks in which they operate. They provide direction and supervision for dog development philosophies and activities. They supervise a team and have responsibilities for managing staff performance, allocating work and identifying opportunities for on-the-job training. The key duties of the position include Duties and responsibilities The role of the DDP Senior Instructor Juvenile Instructor includes: Supervise, lead, mentor, develop and direct teams that Develop juvenile dogs to reach their genetic potential. Work intimately with foster cares that assist in developing juvenile dogs. Identify and develop talented candidate detector dogs for the ABF. Establish and maintain professional relationships with internal / external stakeholders across the DDP and partner agencies Assess suitability of dogs for training within the DDP or other law enforcement or community service agencies. Supervise the well-being of the DDP canine colony - including oversight of nutrition, animal husbandry and animal welfare regimes Supervise foundation training of candidate detector dog in accordance with DDP methodologies. Conduct research and develop new techniques for developing juvenile dogs and addressing general dog behaviour. Provide high-level technical advice on juvenile dog development to DDP management and partner domestic and international agencies. Assess risks and promote the appropriate methodology in regard to juvenile dog development with Workplace Health and Safety standards. Conduct demonstrations and public education sessions of ABF juvenile dog development. Conduct Quality Assurance on all juvenile development activities in accordance with DDP methodologies. Supervise administrative support for DDP databases that include - file/register administration and International Working Dog Registry (IWDR). Supervise the learning needs of all staff. Ensure self and team apply appropriate legislation, policy and procedure. Additional information Role Requirements Capabilities Coach, mentor and direct staff with the skills of developing juvenile dogs. Understands the work environment and initiates and develops team goals, strategies and work plans. Reviews performance and identifies opportunities for improvement. Responds in a positive and flexible manner to change. Works collaboratively and operates as an effective team member. Communicates in a clear, concise and articulate manner and tailors' communication style and message accordingly to the audience. Skills Effectively understands and can demonstrate DDP juvenile dog development and foundation training principles. Builds and sustains positive relationships with team members, stakeholders and clients. Provide effective and constructive feedback and encouragement to others. Knowledge Extensive knowledge of ABF DDP development and training methodologies. Identifies the relationship between organisational goals and operational tasks. Qualifications Mandatory Drivers licence Desirable Certificate IV in Training and Assessment Successful completion of an Australian Government agency detector dog course Dog Behaviour Education Strong written and oral communication skills Knowledge of ABF operational role at the border An understanding of ABF legislation and policies An understanding of Portfolio functions, responsibilities and organisational linkages.