OPERATIONAL OFFICER LEVEL 3
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: Position will be based within the Western Border District (Central Darling LGA and Unincorporated Area). The specific work location will be determined in consultation with the successful applicant, noting satellite offices currently exist in Wilcannia and Ivanhoe.
- Limited free onsite car parking is available
- Annualised Conditions Allowance, Remote Area Allowance and additional Western Zone Leave may apply
Looking for more information?
Why not reach out to our role expert, Justin Ryan, Acting District Manager, for a confidential chat on 0428 675 548 or
[email protected].
What you’ll be doing:
The Western Border Rural Fire District spans in excess of 145,000 square kilometres, incorporating the Central Darling Local Government Area and the Unincorporated Area of NSW. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in supporting RFS members, strengthening community preparedness and contributing to the delivery of emergency services outcomes across the district. As an Operational Officer Level 3, you will assume the district 2IC role, working collaboratively with brigade leaders, volunteers, staff and external stakeholders to establish/improve capability, support operational readiness and deliver district priorities. No two days are the same, with the role offering a diverse mix of relationship management, project coordination, volunteer support and operational activities. This position is ideal for a proactive and adaptable individual who is passionate about regional and remote NSW, fostering strong community connections and making a meaningful contribution to the safety and resilience of local communities.
Our ideal candidate:
The ideal candidate will be a motivated and community focused professional with strong communication, organisational and problem-solving skills. They will demonstrate the ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with RFS members (Volunteer and Staff), external stakeholders and local communities, while managing competing priorities in a dynamic operational environment. The successful applicant will have a commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes, supporting district initiatives and contributing positively to team performance. They will be adaptable, self-motivated and capable of working both autonomously and collaboratively, with a strong focus on operational service delivery, membership safety and continuous improvement.
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 5 weeks annual leave per year (for Western Zone location), 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!
Other Benefits:
- Limited free onsite car parking available
- Remote Area Allowance may be applicable
- 5 weeks annual leave for Western Zone location may be applicable
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 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):
- Describe how you balance stakeholder needs with compliance or policy constraints.
- Describe a time you resolved a complex problem that affected a critical outcome. What approach 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 9 August 2026.
Important recruitment Information
- A recruitment (talent) pool for 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.
Learn more about how RFS members support communities across NSW below
Vacancy Reference: R26-216
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.
