Three Career Pathways to Join the Emergency Response and Rescue Industry
A career in emergency response and rescue offers the chance to make a significant impact, save lives, and work in challenging environments. SETS Enterprises is here to guide you through the qualifications and roles required to embark on this rewarding career path. Below are three key roles within the industry and the qualifications and responsibilities associated with each.
Emergency Response Team Member (ERT)
Role Overview | As an Emergency Response Team Member (ERT), you will be involved in on-site volunteer work, focusing on immediate response and support during emergencies. This role is crucial in ensuring safety and effective response in high-risk environments.
Key Qualifications:
- HLTAID014 Provide Advanced First Aid
- Working towards RII30719 Certificate III in Emergency Response and Rescue
Primary Duties:
- Inspect, test, and maintain emergency response equipment
- Familiarise yourself with emergency response procedures
- Attend emergency response training sessions
- Participate in post-incident debriefs
- Report workplace hazards
- Respond to a variety of emergencies, including:
- Vertical and Confined Space Rescue
- Hazardous Materials Spills
- Search and Rescue
- First Aid Response
- Road Crashes
- Fires
Ideal for | Individuals looking to start their career in emergency response with a focus on hands-on, practical experience in a volunteer capacity.
Emergency Services Officer (ESO)
Role Overview | Emergency Services Officers (ESO) are employed professionals who handle a range of responsibilities from managing equipment to conducting emergency response training. This role requires a higher level of responsibility and expertise compared to an ERT member.
Key Qualifications:
- HLTAID014 Provide Advanced First Aid
- RII30719 Certificate III in Emergency Response and Rescue
Primary Duties:
- Organise servicing and repair of emergency response equipment
- Conduct audits, inspections, and other relevant duties on mine sites
- Plan, conduct, and report on emergency response training
- Review and amend emergency response procedures
- Conduct safety interventions and interactions
- Participate in emergency planning meetings
- Arrange and undertake patient transport
- Participate in incident investigations
- Conduct drug and alcohol testing
- Lead post-incident debriefs
- Supervise ERT during emergency responses, including:
- Vertical and Confined Space Rescue
- Hazardous Materials Spills
- Search and Rescue
- First Aid Response
- Road Crashes
- Fires
Ideal for | Individuals with a keen interest in a supervisory and organisational role within emergency services, who are ready to take on more complex responsibilities.
Medical Emergency Services Officer (MESO)
Role Overview | Medical Emergency Services Officers are employed professionals with a focus on medical care and management. This role involves providing comprehensive health services, injury management, and emergency response.
Key Qualifications:
- HLT41120 Certificate IV in Health Care
- RII30719 Certificate III in Emergency Response and Rescue
Primary Duties:
- Manage injuries, including paperwork and liaising with patients, physiotherapists, doctors, and human resources
- Provide medical clearances for potential and return-to-work employees
- Organize servicing and repair of emergency response equipment
- Plan, conduct, and report on emergency response training
- Conduct mental health assessments and provide recommendations
- Participate in emergency planning meetings
- Conduct random drug and alcohol testing
- Arrange and undertake patient transport
- Administer flu vaccinations
- Lead post-incident debriefs
- Supervise mine site emergencies and provide medical care, including:
- Vertical and Confined Space Rescue
- Hazardous Materials Spills
- Search and Rescue
- First Aid Response
- Road Crashes
- Fires
Ideal for | Those with a medical background seeking a role that combines healthcare with emergency response and rescue operations.
Additional Site-Specific Requirements
Depending on the site and operational requirements, additional qualifications might be needed, such as:
- HLTPAT005 – Collect specimens for drugs of abuse testing
- PUAVEH001 – Drive vehicles under operational conditions
- CPP20218 – Certificate II in Security Operations
Conclusion
Each of these roles plays a vital part in maintaining safety and effective emergency response in various environments. Whether you’re starting with hands-on emergency response, moving into a supervisory role, or combining medical expertise with emergency services, SETS Enterprises provides the necessary training and support to help you succeed. Explore these pathways and consider which role aligns with your career goals and interests.
For more information on how to get started, book a careers call with our friendly team today!