Operational Officer Level 2 (RPO)

If you are interested in working for a highly regarded emergency service agency and supporting local communities, a role in our OpO Program could be for you!

The Rural Fire Service (RFS) is the lead agency for bush fire management and mitigation in NSW. Fighting fires and protecting the community from emergencies is what we do!

The Operational Officer (OpO) Program is a RFS initiative to create and encourage a mobile and agile workforce across the state. The program is a unique opportunity to gain experience in a wide range of RFS activities in district and regional roles, as well as other specialised sections across the organisation. The role provides a broad range of services in a team environment that lead to better protection of the community from bush fires and other emergencies.

Ongoing employment

Full time role & 35 hour working week

RFS Level 6/7

Attractive annual salary $104,323 - $115,110 p.a. plus 12% superannuation

Location: Tamworth, North Western Area Command

Why not reach out to our role expert, Monica Bentham, for a confidential chat on 0460 012 024.

Operating within the Community Risk function the Operational Officer Level 2 (Risk Planning Officer) role plays a critical role supporting our Districts to strengthen community preparedness and resilience across the North Western Area Command.

In this role, you will participate in Bush Fire Management Committee meetings across the Area as you facilitate the development and implementation of strategic risk management plans. You will collaborate with Districts to effectively plan, prepare and execute hazard reduction activities; build and strengthen community partnerships and stakeholder relationships; support hazard management and deliver outcomes aligned to District Bush Fire Risk Management Plans.

As a Risk Planning Officer you will gain exposure to a wide range of mitigation and operational activities, work across multiple districts with multidisciplinary NSW RFS teams, and contribute directly to community safety and emergency response capability.

Strong planning and analytical skills, with the ability to think strategically

Adaptable and resourceful, with a willingness to support teams as required

Ability to work independently and provide sound technical advice

Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills

Community Risk experience, including BFMC functions, hazard management and burn planning, is highly regarded

Proficiency in RFS systems and platforms, particularly Guardian

RFS Crew Leader Supervision qualification

RFS Level 2 Principal or Assistant IMT Qualification

Certificate IV in a relevant discipline or equivalent expertise

A current Driver Licence and the willingness and ability to travel

Completion of an Operational Officer Medical Assessment certifying the required level of general health and fitness (external candidates)

Please note: Those with equivalent qualifications are encouraged to apply, the RFS will review and determine eligibility on a case-by-case basis.

You may be required to undertake further professional development depending on your existing qualifications and experience in accordance with the essential requirements of the role. If you are interested in finding out more about this opportunity, please access the role description and our organisation structure

Note: As per the role description, candidates are required to meet minimum essential requirements. If you do not meet the essential requirements for this role, your application may not progress to shortlisting.

Operational uniform available

Attractive leave entitlements including 4 weeks annual leave per year, plus more

Free access to our Member Assistance Program (MAP) for all RFS members, and their immediate family

Salary packaging options available

One ‘Agreed Absence’ leave day per calendar month

Ongoing learning and professional development programs (RFS is a Registered Training Organisation giving you access to various internal courses)

Partnership with Fitness Passport for eligible RFS staff and their families to access more than 845 gyms and pools!

This role is located in Regional NSW, which means you’re eligible for The Welcome Experience! The Welcome Experience is a FREE service to help essential workers and their families move to regional NSW with ease. From finding housing and childcare to helping your partner find employment and connecting with the local community, they offer personalised, concierge-like support tailored to your needs.

Discover what life is like in Regional NSW – explore The Welcome Experience and register today !

To be considered for this opportunity, you must submit your application by clicking 'Apply Now' through the relevant advertisement on RFS Careers , and attach:

A cover letter in PDF format, addressing how you meet the essential requirements of the role, outlining your suitability and why you are interested in this opportunity;

A resume in PDF format, including two current/recent professional referees (please include email address and contact number)

Respond to two targeted questions within the online application process (maximum 500 words each): Give an example of explaining a complex topic to someone unfamiliar with it. What strategies did you use to ensure clarity and understanding? Tell us about a time you prioritised competing deadlines. What approach did you take?

Give an example of explaining a complex topic to someone unfamiliar with it. What strategies did you use to ensure clarity and understanding?

Tell us about a time you prioritised competing deadlines. What approach did you take?

Candidates are encouraged to prepare their applications independently to ensure they accurately reflect their skills and experience. The Rural Fire Service values authentic, original responses that reflect individual perspectives and alignment with its values and priorities. Skills, knowledge, and capability will be assessed and verified through the capability assessment process.

A recruitment (talent) pool for North Western Area Command roles (only) may be created through this recruitment process to fill future ongoing, temporary, casual and term, full time or part time opportunities.

We value a diverse and inclusive workplace and are committed to ensuring our employees represent the diversity of communities that we serve.

If you require an adjustment during the recruitment process, please include any details that you are comfortable sharing during the application process, alternatively, you can reach out to the role expert to discuss.

The recruitment process may involve a range of assessment activities to determine your capabilities for the role (aligning to the NSW PSC Capability Framework ). The Capability application tool is designed to help job applicants understand and use the NSW Public Sector Capability Framework when applying for jobs with the NSW government. Additional checks for successful applicants will include referee checks and criminal history checks.

This may not be the role for you, however you can check out other vacancies in the RFS here , or consider volunteering with your local Brigade.

Learn more about how RFS members support communities across NSW below