Careers at TAFE NSW

TAFE NSW: A career of life-changing impact

Head Teacher Automotive Light Vehicle

On Wonnarua Country at the Muswellbrook TAFE NSW Campus

Permanent Full Time

$153,047 package includes salary ($135,445), employer's superannuation and annual leave loading

At TAFE NSW, we are dedicated to life-changing impact.  

That’s why we offer world-class training and education that delivers the skills needed for the jobs of today and tomorrow. 

We invest in our people 

At TAFE NSW, you will discover a diverse, dynamic, and collaborative environment, where you can innovate, create value, and do meaningful work. 

We provide you with tools and ongoing training and professional development, health and wellbeing programs, and depending on your role, a variety of flexible working options. 

About the role 

TAFE NSW is seeking a passionate and experienced professional to join our team as Head Teacher Automotive Light Vehicle, a permanent full-time leadership position based at Muswellbrook, with travel to Cessnock and Singleton to support teaching sections.

This role offers a unique opportunity to lead a team of five dedicated staff in delivering high-quality vocational education in a high-growth industry. As Head Teacher, you will coordinate educational programs, mentor and support teaching staff, and ensure compliance with TAFE NSW policies and regulatory standards. You’ll also engage with industry and community stakeholders to ensure our training remains relevant and impactful.

This is a career-defining opportunity for someone ready to take the next step in educational leadership - offering job security, competitive pay, professional development, and a strong work-life balance in a subject area you’re passionate about.    

About You 

You are a seasoned educator with at least five years of teaching experience in the automotive industry and a deep understanding of vocational education. You bring subject matter expertise, a passion for mentoring others, and a collaborative approach to leadership. Your ability to coach and guide a team of energetic professionals helps drive strong educational outcomes. You’re confident delivering training both face-to-face and via connected learning platforms, and you understand the importance of building strong relationships with students, industry partners, and internal stakeholders.

You thrive in a dynamic environment where balancing teaching, leadership, and administrative responsibilities is key. You’re skilled at prioritising tasks, navigating competing demands, and maintaining a strong customer focus - even when faced with pressing issues from management or classroom commitments. Your knowledge of RTO Standards and the TAFE NSW operating structure ensures you meet compliance requirements while delivering high-quality education.

If you're ready to lead with purpose and make a lasting impact, we’d love to hear how you approach these challenges and meet the Essential Requirements:

• Possess the qualification AUR30620 Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology or equivalent.  Appropriate technical or professional qualifications, and vocational and/ or industrial experience, to be able to teach in one of the principal areas supervised by the head teacher position. 
• Evidence of successful completion of an approved program of teacher education, or evidence of successful completion and or undertaking current studies of an acceptable teaching qualification. (AQF) Level 5 or higher qualification in Vocational Education and Training (VET)/ Adult Education OR hold a TAE40116 or equivalent and commit to obtaining the AQF Level 5 or higher qualification within 18 months of employment. 
• Extensive industry experience in your area of specialisation in the automotive industry and/or related industry.   
• Ability to meet all the essential requirements listed in the position description. 

To find out more about the role, click to view the  Position Description

Our commitment to Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion 

We are committed to creating a culturally safe and accessible workplace where dignity, trust, respect, and the promotion of diversity and inclusion are valued, so you can safely bring your whole self to work and connect with your community through our many diverse employee networks.  If you require an adjustment in the recruitment process, please contact the Talent Acquisition Advisor listed below. 

Together we can change lives! Apply now!

Applications close 11.55pm AEST Monday 1 September

To apply for this role, click on 'apply' and provide: 

• Your current resume (PDF)
• Certified copies of relevant qualifications transcript & certificate (PDF) 
• A cover letter outlining how your capabilities, knowledge and experience meet the requirements of the role (1 page max)   

General recruitment and adjustment enquiries: contact Talent Acquisition Advisor Sally Barry, via sally.barry4@tafensw.edu.au or 02 7921 0203.    

Role-specific enquiries: contact Nigel White, Team Leader via nigel.white5@tafensw.edu.au or 0427 985 630. 

For helpful insights into preparing your application, TAFE NSW’s recruitment process, and getting interview ready, read through our Application Process. 

This is a child-related position. A Working with Children Check is a prerequisite for anyone in child-related work. It involves a national criminal history check and review of findings of workplace misconduct.  

To be eligible for positions at TAFE NSW, you need to be an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident of Australia or a New Zealand citizen with a current New Zealand passport. 

An eligibility list, valid for 18 months, may be created for this position, and position(s) of the same classification that subsequently becomes vacant, may be filled via this recruitment. 

Considering a move to Regional NSW? The Welcome Experience is a free service providing tailored support to ensure a smooth transition. From connecting you with the local community and essential services to helping you navigate employment and lifestyle opportunities. Discover the benefits of regional living –  explore The Welcome Experience and register today!