Department Manager Automotive and Manufacturing

15 hours ago

Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Careers in Demand Pty Ltd Full time $80,000 - $120,000 per year

If you've built your career in the automotive, manufacturing, or refrigeration industries — and now thrive in the VET or education sector — this is the kind of role that brings it all together.

Our client is a respected and progressive vocational education provider with a strong reputation for quality, innovation and community impact. They're looking for a dynamic leader to guide their Automotive & Manufacturing department through its next stage of growth — someone who combines real-world industry knowledge with educational leadership excellence.

Why You'll Love This Opportunity

This is not just another management role — it's your chance to lead with purpose and make a genuine difference in the lives of students, teachers, and industry partners.

You'll enjoy:

  • Great conditions and genuine work/life balance – hybrid work options, flexible arrangements and family-friendly leave
  • Strong purpose and impact – shaping the next generation of skilled professionals across key trades
  • Professional autonomy – lead your team, innovate, and deliver on outcomes that matter
  • Supportive, people-first culture – be part of an organisation that values wellbeing, collaboration, and respect

What You'll Be Doing

  • Leading program design, delivery, and compliance across Automotive and Manufacturing
  • Supporting and mentoring a capable team of educators and specialists
  • Driving student engagement, retention, and success
  • Managing budgets, resources and operational performance
  • Building partnerships with industry and representing the department in key forums
  • Championing innovation, safety, inclusion and continuous improvement

What You'll Bring

We're looking for an experienced VET leader who blends practical industry understanding with strategic education experience.

To be successful, you'll bring:

  • A relevant tertiary qualification (AQF6 or above) and trade or professional qualifications in a related field
  • Proven leadership and management experience within vocational education
  • Strong knowledge of automotive, refrigeration, or manufacturing industries
  • Deep understanding of VET compliance, assessment, and curriculum development
  • Working knowledge of government funding frameworks, quality standards and regulatory requirements
  • A collaborative, people-focused leadership style and commitment to excellence
  • Current Working with Children Check and National Police Check

The Benefits

You'll be joining an organisation that believes in empowering its people and investing in their growth. Benefits include:

  • Flexible work options and hybrid arrangements
  • Generous leave entitlements including paid parental and family violence leave
  • Health and wellbeing initiatives – free health checks, flu vaccinations, and access to staff discounts
  • Professional development opportunities and recognition programs
  • Salary packaging and novated leasing options

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you're ready to take the next step in your vocational leadership journey and contribute to an organisation with genuine purpose, we'd love to hear from you.

Submit your resume and a short cover letter outlining your experience and motivation for applying.

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