OPERATIONAL OFFICER LEVEL 2

FAR WEST

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 Rural Fire Service 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.

This opportunity offers:

• Full-time ongoing employment
• 35 hour working week and generous entitlements
• Ongoing training, learning and development within the Operational Officer Program
• Attractive annual salary of RFS 6/7 - $98,334 - $108,502 p.a. plus 11.5% superannuation
• This location has 5 weeks of annual leave and access to the remote area allowance
• Location: Bourke

These roles provide high-level support across district, area, and state functions to help prevent, prepare for, and respond to fires and emergencies. Key responsibilities include contributing to service planning and delivery, supporting RFS members and communities, ensuring systems and procedures meet service standards, and providing timely, expert advice in high-pressure environments. The role also requires a strong understanding of volunteer-based operations and a commitment to continuous professional development.

We are looking for a proactive, solutions-focused professional with a strong commitment to community safety. You thrive in dynamic environments, bring excellent problem-solving and communication skills, and work effectively within a team. You understand the complexities of working with volunteers and have experience supporting emergency services or community-based programs. Your attention to detail, ability to manage competing priorities, and dedication to service excellence make you a valuable asset in helping protect the community from bush fires and other emergencies.

To be considered for this opportunity, minimum entry requirements include:

• RFS Bush Firefighter qualification or equivalent, and willingness to obtain the RFS Crew Leader Supervision qualification
• Willingness to obtain an RFS Level 2 Principal or Assistant IMT Qualification
• Willingness to obtain a Certificate IV in a relevant discipline
• Current Driver Licence, ability and willingness to travel
• Completion of an Operational Officer Medical Assessment certifying the required level of general health and fitness

Please note: Those with equivalent qualifications are encouraged to apply, the RFS will support you formalise the official qualification as part of the recruitment and on-boarding process.

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.

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 are available
• One ‘Agreed Absence’ leave day per calendar month
• Ongoing learning and professional development programs
• The RFS is a Registered Training Organisation, and you will have access to various internal courses

Make the Move to Regional NSW!
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.

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How do I apply?

To apply, please visit I Work for NSW and provide in PDF Format:

• Tell us about a time you had to manage competing customer needs or expectations. How did you ensure a positive outcome while maintaining service standards?
• How do you ensure high-quality service delivery and problem resolution under pressure, particularly in time-critical or high-stakes environments?

• A cover letter (maximum two pages) which addresses the essential requirements of the role and outlines why you are interested and why you believe you are suited to the role
• A resume outlining your skills, experience and qualifications and two professional referees; and
• A copy of your qualifications as per the essential requirements of the role
• Respond to two targeted questions within the online application process (maximum 500 words each):

Applications close 11:59 PM Sunday 15 June 2025.

Looking for more information?

Please reach out to our role expert David Hagarty, A/District Manager, for a confidential chat on 0427 392 589 or review the OpO Candidate Information Guide here.

Additional Information

• Failure to upload the required documentation and qualifications as part of your application may result in your application being deemed unsuccessful.
• The successful applicants will be required to travel regularly and must be prepared to work in various locations.
• A recruitment (talent) pool for this location (only) or other rural and remote locations may be created through this recruitment process.
• Shortlisted external applicants will be required to undergo a medical assessment (medical costs will be covered by RFS).
• Successful applicants will be supported to attend a paid Induction course over a 7 week period at the RFS State Training Academy located in Dubbo.
• We value a diverse and inclusive workplace and actively promote the employment of women, people with a disability, Aboriginal people, LGBTIQA+ and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
• 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.

Learn more about how RFS members support communities across NSW below

Vacancy Reference: R25/162

Keep up to date with the RFS on our socials

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.