South Australian State Emergency Service Job reference: ****** Location: **** - KESWICK Job status: Long Term Contract Eligibility: Open to Everyone Help build and support the volunteer workforce that helps South Australians when they need it most!
SA SES is seeking an experienced and motivated Senior Project and Program Officer, Volunteer Recruitment to strengthen and sustain our volunteer workforce across the state.
In this role, you will lead and coordinate initiatives that enhance volunteer recruitment, onboarding, engagement and retention, ensuring SA SES continues to attract, develop and support volunteers who serve their communities during emergencies This role will be offered on an initial 12-month contract with the possibility of extension.
About the role Reporting to the Manager, Volunteer Capacity, and working closely with volunteers, staff and key stakeholders, you will play a key role in designing, implementing and evaluating initiatives that strengthen volunteer participation and organisational capability and support the delivery of SA SES strategic priorities.
This position includes undertaking the roles of Retention Officer and Youth Coordinator, directly supporting existing and emerging initiatives in both volunteer retention and youth program spaces.
You will: lead and coordinate volunteer capability projects and programs from planning through to evaluation, research, analyse and identify opportunities to improve volunteer recruitment, onboarding, engagement and retention, provide project, program and policy advice to support evidence-based decision making, engage and collaborate with volunteers, staff, government agencies and other stakeholders to deliver successful outcomes, and support the development of innovative and sustainable solutions that enhance the volunteer experience.
About you To be successful in this role, and in addition to the essential criteria, you will bring the following: values alignment: you will naturally embody our core values and be committed to delivering outcomes that strengthen SA SES capability and support our volunteers and communities project and program management expertise:



you will have demonstrated experience leading complex projects or programs in dynamic or high-risk environments and you will have a sound knowledge of project management principles and processes strategic thinking and problem solving: you will be capable of analysing complex issues, managing competing priorities and developing practical solutions that align with organisational objectives, and strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills: you will be experienced in building productive relationships, influencing outcomes and communicating technical information clearly to a variety of audiences.
About us The SA SES is a volunteer-based emergency response and rescue organisation providing vital support to the South Australian community 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Each year, SA SES responds to thousands of calls for assistance, helping to save lives and protect property across the state.
Our **** volunteers, based in 69 units across South Australia, are supported by a dedicated team of staff committed to the same mission: minimising the loss of life, injuries and damage from emergencies and natural disasters.
Our vision is to be a reliable and trusted volunteer-based organisation building safe and resilient communities.
We are guided by our core values of service, professionalism, trust, respect, collaboration, honesty, courage and sustainability.
At SA SES, we take pride in serving with integrity, working together to find solutions and striving for excellence in all we do for the safety and resilience of all South Australians.
We celebrate diversity across our business and recognise the significant benefits offered through a wide range of views, perspectives and experiences.
Fostering a workforce, of both paid staff and volunteers, which is rich in knowledge, skills and life and work experiences supports us in delivering on our corporate objectives.
Why us?




we offer purpose-driven work that supports the preparedness and safety of the South Australian community, we offer an inclusive and diverse workforce that values the contributions and unique perspectives of all, we offer access to career development and the opportunity to grow your skills while making an impact, and we are a supportive team of passionate and motivated people.
Operational duties As an emergency response and rescue service, our people undertake duties across our routine business functions, as well as participating in operational duties during event activations.
This provides a unique opportunity to not only use the skills and knowledge you have in your daily occupation, but also to develop tactical skills while being part of the emergency response.
Operational duties may be rostered across mornings, afternoons, evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
Staff who are rostered on operational duties are remunerated appropriately and in accordance with the relevant industrial instruments.
How to Apply Before applying, please review the Application Guidelines and Role Description.
Your application must include: a letter of no more than two pages which outlines your suitability for the role as outlined in the Application Guidelines included with this advertisement.
and a current CV which includes the details of at least two recent referees, one of which being a current line manager, and a completed and signed Pre-Employment Declaration form.
Applications that do not follow these instructions may not be considered.
Enquiries about the role can be directed to Derren Halleday, Manager Volunteer Capacity on ************ or via ******.
Applications close: 01/10/2026 11:45 PM Attachments: - Pre-Employment-Declaration_******.pdf - Role Description - M***** - Snr Project Program Officer Volunteer Capacity - Aug **** - Final.pdf - Senior Project and Program Officer Volunteer Capacity - Application Guidelines - Aug ****.pdf Flexibility Statement The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part-time.
Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.

📌 Senior Project And Program Officer, Volunteer Capacity (Adelaide)
🏢 South Australian State Emergency Service
📍 Adelaide