OPERATIONAL OFFICER LEVEL 1

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 an 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 bushfires and other emergencies.

We have a number of opportunities available at locations near you – check them out here. In addition to the available opportunities, additional vacancies may be added during the process, and we will also create a state-wide Recruitment (Talent) Pool.

This opportunity offers:

• Full-time ongoing employment
• 35 hour working week and generous entitlements
• Attractive annual salary of $83,305 - $91,213 p.a. plus 11.5% superannuation and allowances*
• State-wide rotational opportunities. Check out our Area Map here.

*Some roles may attract an annualised conditions allowance (ACA) of up to 15%.

You will be engaged in a number of challenging and rewarding activities in these roles, and our ideal candidate will:

• Have volunteer and/or emergency services experience and an understanding of risk management principles and safety systems
• Have an understanding and interest in fire mitigation and field operational experience
• Have the desire and ability to learn new skills and qualifications
• Have demonstrated commitment to understanding and delivering community safety information
• Have an understanding of agency statutory functions (e.g. Hazard Complaints)
• Have the ability to lead small teams and support incident coordination including support of other agencies
• Provide excellent customer service to our communities and highly valued volunteer members

To be considered for these opportunities, you will need to provide evidence of:

• RFS Advanced Firefighter (AF) qualification or equivalent
• Certificate III 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 only)

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.

Click here to view the role description and detailed list of essential requirements.

The commencing salary will be considered in alignment with skills and experience.

Why work for us?

• 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!

Make the Move to Regional NSW!

Select roles located in Regional NSW are 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 ignite your RFS journey:

To be considered for this opportunity, you must submit your application online via I Work for NSW, 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)
• A copy of your qualifications and other relevant documentation as per the essential requirements of the role

Applications close 11:59pm Sunday 27 April 2025.

Looking for more information?

Please review the OpO Candidate Information Guide here.

Have questions about the recruitment process? Why not reach out to our friendly OpO Recruitment team via [email protected].

If you have questions about the roles or the OpO Program? Reach out to our friendly OpO Program team via [email protected].

Important recruitment Information

• Online Assessment Centres: Late May 2025
• Offers: Mid June 2025
• Mandatory Induction: 11 August - 21 November 2025

• Key recruitment dates:*

* Exact dates will be communicated to candidates progressing in the Recruitment process.

• Failure to submit the requested information relating to qualifications and equivalent expertise may result in your application being deemed unsuccessful.
• Shortlisted external applicants will be required to undergo a medical assessment (medical costs will be covered by RFS).
• Successful applicants will be required to attend a paid Induction Course over a 15-week period at the RFS State Training Academy located in Dubbo (11 August - 21 November 2025).
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