Position Overview

The Work Health and Safety (WHS) Support Officer (Fire and Emergency) works with the relevant University Emergency Control Organisations (Fire Wardens located within a building) to coordinate the annual fire evacuation drill program. The WHS Officer (Fire and Emergency) ensures appropriate building fire safety plans and signage are in place and current, and conducts compliance inspections in relation to relevant legislation.

The WHS Support Officer (Fire and Emergency) participates in monitoring and maintaining a first aid management system across University campuses.

Division of Services and Resource

The Division of Services and Resources comprises a number of Directorates and Offices, including Financial and Business Services; Estate; Human Resources; Planning, Performance and Analytics; Technology Solutions; and the Health, Safety and Environment Unit, whose activities foster and promote innovation and best practice in the delivery of its services and provide the frameworks and support to assist the Academy and Service Divisions achieve their goals and objectives.

The Division is responsible for overall strategy in relation to: planning, performance and budgeting framework; strategic procurement; financial and human resources; technology solutions services; business intelligence and statistical reporting; strategic commercial activities, including in relation to the Controlled Entities, the Discovery Rise project and Retail outlets; quality enhancement and policy framework; capital infrastructure planning and maintenance and delivery of capital projects for technology solutions and the Estate; health and safety management and compliance; provision of campus services including cleaning, grounds maintenance, security and student accommodation.

The Division has a strong customer service ethic and continuous improvement culture. We are receptive to new ideas and ways in which we can enhance our delivery of services for the University.

Organisational Charts

James Cook University

Principal Accountabilities

1. Provide advice, training and related reports to stakeholders on matters relating to emergency management and meeting legislative requirements covering building fire safety and first aid.
2. Liaise with Emergency Control Organisations and respective business units to complete bi-annual fire training and annual building evaluation drills, conducting debrief activities as required to review and identify improvement opportunities, preventive or corrective actions.
3. Update and maintain information in the Fire Evacuation Program in relation to firefighting equipment and associated building fire safety protection apparatus.
4. Maintain an effective First Aid management system to ensure adequate numbers of first aid kits are maintained, accessible and fit for purpose.
5. Develop and review building fire safety plans for buildings across JCU locations and review and update the WHS Emergency Management Procedure as required.
6. When required assist associated WHS Support Officer(s) with completing assigned tasks.
7. Undertake audit and inspections of emergency equipment across University worksites e.g., emergency showers and eyewash stations
8. Support the University's commitment to the principles of reconciliation, which exemplify respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage and the valuing of justice and equity for all Australians.
9. Demonstrate a commitment to the University values.
10. Support the principles of the TropEco program and engage in commitment to JCU sustainability goals and objectives.

Descriptors

There are generic responsibilities that apply to all James Cook University staff. Your specific level descriptor can be found within the Enterprise Agreement.

Generic Accountabilities

There are generic responsibilities that apply to all James Cook University staff.

1. The WHS Support Officer (Fire and Emergency) is required to observe the lawful and reasonable directions, policies and decisions of the University Council, understand and comply with the Enterprise Agreement, the Statutes and Rules of the University, and other appropriate University authorities, as in force from time to time.
2. The WHS Support Officer (Fire and Emergency) is required to demonstrate a personal commitment to ensure personal safety and the safety of others and contribute to the continuous improvement of our WHS performance. This includes the effective implementation and compliance with James Cook University WHS policies, procedures and safe systems of work, together with all relevant legislation, duties and obligations.
3. The WHS Support Officer (Fire and Emergency) is required to exercise proper discretion in all matters affecting the well-being of the University which involve public writing or speaking in accordance with the University’s Code of Conduct.

Special Conditions

• It is a requirement of this position to hold a current First Aid Certificate
• It is a requirement of this position to hold a current Fire Safety Advisor Certificate

Selection Criteria

Selection and appointments will be assessed against selection criteria.

Essential

1. Qualifications as a Fire Safety Advisor and subsequent relevant experience acting in a Fire Safety Advisor role or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and/or education and/or training in a WHS field.
2. Demonstrated experience in organising and implementing building evacuation drills in large complex or remote/isolated environments.
3. Demonstrated experience in the interpretation and application of Building Fire Safety Regulations. Demonstrated experience in the administration of a First Aid Management Plan including training, maintaining first aid kits and other emergency response equipment including emergency showers, eyewash stations and defibrillator units. Proven ability to work effectively as a team member to build and maintain productive working relationships, demonstrating leadership skills to engage and deliver improved emergency preparedness within the workplace
4. Demonstrated well-developed written and oral communication skills to facilitate training and build stakeholder awareness of their responsibilities, leadership role and commitment to emergency management.

Desirable

1. Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety and Certificate IV in Training and Assessment.