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.
This opportunity offers:
- Ongoing employment
- Full time role & 35 hour working week
- RFS Level 6/7
- Attractive annual salary $101,284 - $111,757 p.a. plus 12% superannuation
- Location: Coffs Harbour, Area North Eastern
- Free onsite car parking available
Looking for more information?
Why not reach out to our role expert, Shellie Smyth, Manager Community Risk, for a confidential chat on 0409 317 149.
What you’ll be doing:
Join the NSW Rural Fire Service North Eastern Area Command (NEAC) Community Risk team in a dynamic Operational Officer role that plays a key part in supporting safer, more prepared communities across one of the most beautiful and diverse parts of the State. Operating as a Risk Planning Officer, this role works closely with our Co-ordinator, Fire Behaviour Analyst and wider Community Risk team to support Districts in delivering hazard reduction and prescribed burning programs, bushfire risk planning, hazard management and Bush Fire Management Committee priorities.
This is a highly collaborative and project-focused role that works across a broad range of stakeholders including Districts, Volunteers, community representatives, Mitigation teams and specialist functional areas. No two days are the same - You’ll balance multiple projects, problem solve, build strong relationships and contribute to meaningful outcomes that directly support community safety and preparedness. We’re looking for someone who is self-driven, adaptable and enjoys being part of a positive, supportive team culture that values collaboration, knowledge sharing and enthusiasm for the work we do.
The Ideal Candidate
- Outcomes-focused, collaborative and genuinely passionate about supporting Districts, volunteers and stakeholders to strengthen community preparedness and safety outcomes across our communities.
- Organised and adaptable, with the ability to plan, coordinate and deliver multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining strong relationships and clear communication.
- Experience in the use of environmental assessments, spatial data and mapping systems will be highly regarded, particularly in supporting risk planning, hazard reduction and land management activities.
- Enjoys working as part of a supportive team environment, openly sharing knowledge, ideas and enthusiasm, and will actively contribute to a positive, healthy workplace culture where people feel valued, respected and motivated to do their best work.
To be considered for these opportunities, you will need to provide evidence of:
- 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.
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!
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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):
Tell us about a time you managed multiple tasks at once. How did you prioritise and handle competing demands?
Tell us about working with another team or agency to deliver a joint outcome or project. What challenges did you face and overcome?
Please submit your application no later than 11:55pm Monday 15th June 2026.
Important recruitment Information
- A recruitment (talent) pool 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: R26-175
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.
