Manager Emergency Response Capability – make a difference where it matters most!

At Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ), we don’t just watch over the beach—we stand ready when Queenslanders need us most. Whether it’s a disaster, an emergency rescue, or a critical incident, our response capability is second to none. We’re seeking a dynamic leader with a passion for operational excellence and community safety to elevate our emergency response operations across the state.

As the Emergency Response Capability Leader, you’ll take the helm of SLSQ’s specialist emergency response functions—including search and rescue, counter-disaster operations, and water-based technical rescue. You’ll shape the future of lifesaving in Queensland by strengthening and expanding capabilities that directly support and enhance our frontline public safety & emergency management operations.

Why SLSQ?

• Contribute to an organisation that saves lives!
• Increase your take home pay with Salary Packaging.
• Paid parental leave available.
• Employee assistance program EAP for health and wellbeing.
• Flexible and hybrid working options.
• Onsite parking.

What You’ll Do:

• Lead Strategic Innovation: be a key driver of SLSQ’s emergency response strategy, guiding the long-term development of specialised capabilities across Queensland.
• Build State-wide Readiness: collaborate with SLSQ regions to develop robust, scalable emergency response inputs—people, systems, training, technology, and infrastructure.
• Strengthen Specialist Networks: establish and maintain a state-wide Emergency Response Group network to ensure rapid, coordinated deployment.
• Enhance Key Capabilities: oversee the advancement of Operations Support Rescue Watercraft (RWC), Remote Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), and water-based technical rescue capabilities.
• Operational Support: support activation of emergency response assets during major incidents in alignment with SLSQ’s State Deployment Plan and Search and Rescue Arrangements.
• Drive Readiness Through Exercises: lead the design and implementation of simulated exercises to test and refine our operational readiness, working in close partnership with the Manager – Emergency Management Coordination.

About You:

Essential Requirements

• A current Blue Card (Working with Children Check) or the ability to obtain one.
• A strong personal commitment to child safety and the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations.
• Ability to attend Board, Committee, or other meetings outside of regular business hours.

Highly Desirable

• Tertiary qualification in Emergency Management (or equivalent experience).
• Experience with Queensland’s disaster management systems and emergency services.
• Hands-on Surf Life Saving experience, particularly in Operations Support.
• Certificate IV in Training and Education.
• Advanced understanding of emergency management frameworks and technical rescue methods.

About SLSQ:

Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ) is a vibrant organisation dedicated to saving lives and promoting beach safety across Queensland. Established in 1930, SLSQ supports over 36,000 members across 57 surf lifesaving clubs. With more than 600 employees, SLSQ delivers lifesaving services, community education, surf sports, and training programs that engage over 462,000 people.

Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ) is committed to creating a fair, inclusive, and representative organisation. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, including women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culturally and linguistically diverse individuals, people who identify as LGBTQIA+ and people with disability. If you need assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the application process, please contact hr@lifesaving.com.au

Apply today and help shape the future of lifesaving operations in Queensland!