Operational Officer Level 3 (RFIC)
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.
This opportunity offers:
- Ongoing employment
- Full time role & 35 hour working week
- RFS Level 8/9
- Attractive annual salary $118,562 - $131,233 p.a. plus 12% superannuation
- Location: Tamworth, Area Command North Western
Looking for more information?
Why not reach out to our role expert, Peter Weatherstone, Manager Capability, for a confidential chat on 0409 175 743.
Join Our Team: Protect, Serve, and Make a Difference!
We are the Rural Fire Service (RFS), a dedicated community of volunteers providing fire and emergency services to approximately 95% of NSW. When you work with the RFS, you join a passionate team committed to protecting our neighbours, the wider community, and the environment from the threat of bushfires and other emergencies. With over 70,000 volunteer members and staff, we embody the spirit of mutual respect, support, friendship, and camaraderie. We are one team with many players, united by a single purpose. If you share our passion for community service and environmental protection, we want to hear from you! Become a part of our mission to safeguard lives and our cherished NSW landscapes.
What you’ll be doing:
As OpO3 - Regulatory Fire Investigation Coordinator, you will lead and coordinate fire investigation and regulatory activities across the area, ensuring fire investigations are conducted in accordance with legislative, evidentiary and organisational requirements. You will provide expert advice and support on fire investigation and legal process, and oversee the quality and consistency of fire investigation outcomes.
You will support Area Capability by mentoring and supporting District staff and Fire Investigators, while working closely with Operational leaders and functional teams to strengthen investigative practices, compliance and continuous improvement.
Our Ideal Candidate:
You will be highly experienced in fire-fighting activities with a strong understanding of fire behaviour and investigation principles, qualified in, or in the process of achieving your Fire Investigation qualification. You will have strong analytical and technical skills, that enable you to effectively leverage technology, analyse data and interpret complex information.
You will have a sound understanding of legislative frameworks with strong attention to detail and professional writing skills that enable you to prepare complex reports and communications.
You will have a collaborative approach, strong leadership skills and sound professional judgement, committed to developing the capability of Fire Investigators across the Area as you provide expert guidance and support on investigative and legal matters to ensure that all investigative processes meet all regulatory and legal requirements.
To be considered for this opportunity, you will need to provide evidence of:
- RFS Group Leader qualification or the equivalent National Units of Competency (PUAOPE016 and PUAOPE02
- Diploma in a relevant discipline (i.e. Emergency Management, Project Management, Leadership) or equivalent expertise
- Level 2 Principal IMT qualification in Planning, Operations or Logistics
- 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.
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!
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 embark on your RFS journey:
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 (including your Fire Investigation and Legal Process expertise), 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):
- Tell us about a time you analysed data or information to make an informed decision. What tools or methods did you use?
- Tell us about your role in delivering a strategic initiative. What actions did you take, and what was the result?
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.
Please submit your application no later than 11:55pm Sunday 6th September 2026.
Important recruitment Information
- 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.
- Failure to submit 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 supported to attend a paid Induction course over a 6 week period at the RFS State Training Academy located in Dubbo.
- 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.
Vacancy Reference: R26-276
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
