Staff Officer

About this role

The Assistant Commissioner, Custodial Operations oversees a fast‑paced, high-volume environment responsible for strategic and operational support across Queensland Corrective Services (QCS). The Staff Officer to the Assistant Commissioner, Regional and Women's Command plays a critical role in ensuring high‑quality operational assurance, strategic analysis and informed decision-making across the Central and Northern Regions and women's correctional centres.

The role requires maintaining extensive knowledge of high‑level operational issues across QCS, particularly within Custodial Operations. The Staff Officer is responsible for reviewing and analysing large volumes of sensitive and complex information, identifying strategic and operational risks, and providing comprehensive advice to senior executives. This includes preparing briefing notes, reports, all‑staff communications and high‑level correspondence on behalf of the Assistant Commissioner.

A key component of the role is building and maintaining effective stakeholder networks across QCS and external agencies. The Staff Officer works closely with correctional centres, the Escort and Security Branch, People Capability Command, Specialist Operations, Professional Standards and Governance Command, and other internal stakeholders to ensure accurate information flow, operational alignment and timely responses to emerging issues.

The position develops and maintains key data sources, registers and departmental information systems to support the Assistant Commissioner in meeting strategic objectives under Corrections 2030. The role ensures deadlines are clearly identified and met, and contributes to business continuity planning, risk registers and strategic initiatives across Custodial Operations.

During the annual Budget Estimates process, the Staff Officer participates in strategic planning activities with executive support personnel, including the Principal Advisor, Estimates and the Senior Departmental Liaison Officer. The role may also undertake additional duties at the direction of the Assistant Commissioners to support the effective operation of the broader Custodial Operations Command. This position is classified as a Team Leader under the Leadership Competencies for Queensland framework.

The successful applicant will demonstrate strong judgement, the ability to assess and resolve complex matters, exceptional professional writing skills, and the capacity to negotiate with stakeholders who often have competing interests. The role requires detailed knowledge of QCS policies, procedures, legislative frameworks and contemporary management practices, as well as the ability to work under pressure, manage competing priorities and maintain confidentiality.

While no mandatory qualifications apply, tertiary studies in correctional practice, administration or criminal justice are highly desirable. The role also requires travel with the Assistant Commissioner to centres within the Central and Northern Region as needed.

Applications to remain current for 12 months.