• Lead an engineering function that genuinely makes a difference in the community
• Senior leadership role shaping long-term engineering capability
• Contribute to safety, innovation and operational excellence across the organisation

Peoplefusion is proud to be partnering with Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service (WRHS) to recruit an experienced aviation engineering leader to join their Senior Leadership Team. This critical role will drive the safe, reliable and efficient delivery of maintenance and airworthiness outcomes across the organisation, supporting the delivery of world-class helicopter emergency medical services across Northern NSW.

More about the role

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, the Head of Engineering plays a pivotal leadership role in overseeing the strategic direction, capability and performance of the Engineering function (CAMO & AMO). Responsible for ensuring compliance under CASA Parts 42 and 145, you will guide the planning, maintenance and airworthiness programs that underpin safe operations across the fleet.

In this role, you will influence and drive outcomes across:

• Long, medium and short-term maintenance and fleet planning
• Airworthiness and regulatory compliance
• Engineering systems improvement, digital transformation and data-driven decision making
• Effective collaboration with Operations, NSW Ambulance, OEMs and suppliers
• Workforce development, leadership capability and team performance
• Budgeting, resource planning and operational efficiency
• Safety leadership, SHEQ compliance and continuous improvement

This is a key role within the organisation, supporting the Service to deliver on its commitment to safety, reliability and world-class capability.
 
About you
 
You will be an experienced aviation engineering leader with a strong technical foundation and a values-driven approach. You bring credibility, resilience and a commitment to excellence in all aspects of engineering management.

To succeed in this role, you will ideally bring:

• Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (LAME) qualification (essential)
• Experience in Part 42 and/or Part 145 organisations
• Strong leadership experience in aviation, (EMS and/or rotary-wing highly regarded)
• Working knowledge of complex aircraft platforms (AW139 aircraft highly regarded)
• Demonstrated ability to build high-performing teams and lead through complexity
• A proactive, improvement-focused mindset with strong stakeholder engagement skills
• Commitment to fostering a safe, respectful and inclusive workplace

Where technical expertise meets purpose, this role offers the opportunity to shape capability, innovate systems and contribute meaningfully to a service that saves lives every day.

Apply now and be part of a team committed to saving lives and serving the community.

How to apply

Click “Apply” to submit your covering letter and CV, outlining your motivation for this opportunity and how you believe your experience aligns. To learn more about the opportunity including the key responsibilities please visit our website to download the Success Profile Pack:
https://www.peoplefusion.com.au/job/head-of-engineering

For more information about the role, organisation culture and associated benefits, please contact Ali Kimmorley at Peoplefusion on 02 4927 2006 or alik@peoplefusion.com.au for a confidential discussion.

Applications Close date: Monday, 5th January 2026

Successful applicants must have the right to work in Australia and be able to successfully complete relevant pre-employment checks.

At Peoplefusion we don’t just accept diversity and inclusion —we celebrate it! We strive to create an environment of equal opportunity regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, lifestyle, age, religion or physical ability, and welcome applications from people from all backgrounds. If you require any assistance with your application, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

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What we can offer

• Permanent position based at our Broadmeadow Base in the heart of Newcastle
• Flexible family lifestyle roster options on the horizon
• Not for profit salary packaging benefits including $15,900 tax free living expenses annually
• Attractive relocation package available
• Opportunity for AW139 type rating conversion course if needed
• Supportive, skilled and collaborative team environment

About the role

We are seeking experienced Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (B1) to join our highly skilled Base Maintenance team working across a modern fleet including AW139 aircraft in a complex environment.

Reporting to the Senior Base Engineer and operating within a CASR approved Part 145 organisation, this role will be required to carry out maintenance, repair, overhaul, modification, assembly and/or testing on the aircraft fleet in a safe and efficient manner and to a high standard.

All about you

Aircraft Engineer Trade Qualifications – CASA Part 66 Licence (B1.3)

• AW139 Type Rating, or we are open to considering applicants with alternative heavy twin engine type rating with experience
• Energetic problem solver and hands on team player
• Experienced, motivated, and a passion for detail
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Computer literacy (including Air Maestro, SharePoint, Word and Excel skills)
• Current Australian drivers licence
• Right to live and work in Australia
• Experience working within an EMS environment will be highly regarded

More Benefits & Perks

• Competitive remuneration aligned to the Enterprise Agreement
• A rewarding and purpose driven work environment
• Genuine commitment to safety, wellbeing and employee support
• Access to Fitness Passport and Employee Assistance Program
• Opportunity for professional growth, through ongoing development and training
• Paid Parental Leave benefits

To Apply

Don’t delay! If you’d like to join our team who are committed to saving lives and serving the community, please click APPLY ON SEEK and begin the journey to your potential dream job!

Please include a cover letter and your resume, outlining your relevant experience and qualifications.

WRHS is an equal opportunity employer who value a diverse workforce and recognise the innovation and competitive advantage this creates. We are excited to hear from applicants who come from a diverse range of backgrounds.

This position is identified Category B in accordance with NSW Health’s framework for the assessment, screening and vaccination of workers to minimise the risk of transmission of vaccine-preventable diseases. As such, it is an essential requirement of this position that you comply with the Service’s policies relating to Occupational Assessment, Screening and Vaccination against Specified Infectious Diseases.

Successful applicants must have the right to work in Australia as well as complete a pre-employment medical examination and National Police History Check. 

Join us in making a difference every day. Apply now and be part of a team committed to saving lives and serving the community.

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Our pilots are skilled professionals with many years’ experience in aviation and specifically trained to conduct aeromedical operations. The Pilot has overall control of the aircraft and leads the entire crew during missions. Responsibilities include:

• Safely operate the aircraft in all-weather environments including IMC and at night utilising Night Vision Goggles (NVG).

• Flight and mission planning for all missions.

• Radio communications with air traffic control and other airspace users.

• Assist the medical team with patient transfer.

To be considered you will be an experienced helicopter Pilot who is well regarded within the industry and be able to demonstrate the following essential qualifications and experience:

• CASA ATPL (H) & Current Class 1 Medical

• Minimum of 2500Hrs Rotary Wing, 2000Hrs PIC Rotary Wing

• Instrument Rated on multi engine helicopters

• Low Level Rating with Winch endorsement

• Helicopter command experience in a variety of operations including NVIS and IFR

Whilst not essential, AW139 Endorsement, DG, HUET, EBS and HFNTS Qualifications and experience within an EMS/SAR environment will be highly regarded.

Helicopter Rescue pilots typically progress through civilian or military aviation pathways, gaining a Commercial Pilot Licence and gaining experience across various operations. For more information, we encourage you to read this interesting article.

The Aircrew Officer’s role is as diverse as it’s unique. With extensive aviation experience, their role changes as each mission develops. Responsibilities include:

• Assist the Pilot with flight and mission planning and monitoring the aircrafts flight path and performance.

• Assist the Pilot with inflight emergencies, as well as conning the aircraft in remote and confined environments.

• Operate the winch to insert and extract critical care medical crews and patients.

• Conduct hover entry/exit operations.

• Operate aircraft systems and deploy equipment and stores during SAR operations.

• Assist the critical care medical team with patient treatment, care, loading, transfer and unloading.

 

To be considered you will be an experienced Aircrew Officer and be able to demonstrate the following essential qualifications and experience:

• Certificate IV in Aviation (Aircrew Officer) & current CASA Class 2 Medical

• Minimum of 500 hours as a helicopter aircrewman

Whilst not essential, Winch Endorsement, DG HUET, NVG, CRM, First Aid/CPR or Bronze Medallion qualifications and experience within an EMS/SAR environment will be highly regarded.

Aircrew Officers commonly come from civilian (emergency and rescue backgrounds) or military pathways. Pathways include formal aviation qualifications, medical clearance and specialist rescue training. These roles require strong teamwork, situational awareness and a commitment to safe, respectful operations.

Our engineering team ensure our aircraft and equipment meet the highest aviation safety standards. These roles are critical to mission readiness.

We currently employ the following roles:

• Licenced Aircraft Maintenance Engineers – within both Line and Heavy Maintenance
• Senior Base Engineers
• Technical Support Engineers
• Technical Records
• Engineering Store Person
• Engineering Administration
• Maintenance Management
• Continuing Airworthiness Management
• Procurement & Logistics Management

Behind every rescue mission is a powerful story, and the generous support of communities who believe in our purpose. Our Media, Marketing and Fundraising team play a vital role in raising funds to ensure the Service can continue to save lives. These roles connect our mission with the community, donors, partners and supporters who make our work possible.

Behind every rescue mission is a dedicated team supporting operations through Executive Leadership, Finance, Facilities, ICT, People & Culture, Legal & Governance, Safety, Quality and Administrative functions. These roles provide the foundation that enables safe, compliant and effective service delivery.

Each mission is supported by a NSW Ambulance Critical Care Paramedic, the NSW Health Doctor and specialist NSW Health Retrieval Nursing team to deliver advanced clinical care to achieve the best possible patient outcomes.

For more information on available career opportunities, refer to the following sites:

• NSWA Careers
• NSW Health Careers

Helicopter Rescue pilots typically progress through civilian or military aviation pathways, gaining a Commercial Pilot Licence and gaining experience across various operations. For more information, we encourage you to read this interesting article.

Aircrew Officers commonly come from civilian (emergency and rescue backgrounds) or military pathways. Pathways include formal aviation qualifications, medical clearance and specialist rescue training. These roles require strong teamwork, situational awareness and a commitment to safe, respectful operations.