Take firefighting to another level
Are you an experienced remote-area firefighter looking for a unique opportunity to lead within one of Victoria's specialist aerial firefighting programs?
DEECA is seeking a Forest and Fire Operations Officer (FFOO) - Technical Lead Rappel to join the Forest Fire Management Victoria Rappel Crew based in Heyfield. This role combines technical leadership, forest and land management and specialist emergency response capabilities which includes deployment from helicopters into remote and challenging environments.
As a Technical Lead, you will play a key role in maintaining the operational readiness, capability and effectiveness of the Rappel program while supporting broader forest and fire operations across Gippsland and Victoria.
We’re looking for someone who:
- Is a highly capable field operator who thrives in remote and challenging environments and can lead by example.
- Has demonstrated experience in specialist rappel firefighting operations and remote area bushfire suppression
- Is experienced with leading teams and coordinating field operations
- Has a strong commitment to safety, operational discipline and teamwork
- Is physically fit and ready to respond when Victoria needs it most.
Join a team that makes a difference every day and help protect Victoria's forests, parks and communities through specialist remote-area firefighting and land management operations.
Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications
- Demonstrated prior experience working in rappel operations undertaking suppression of remote area bushfires.
- Experience and accreditation in Rappel Dispatching is desirable.
- Demonstrated experience and understanding in natural resource management, preferably with good knowledge of forest management and forest operations.
This is an ongoing position. The work location for this position is Heyfield.
To be considered for this position, applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter (no longer than 2 pages) summarising their skills and relevant experience.
Please refer to the Key Selection Criteria provided in the , including the mandatory requirements.
How to Apply:
If you are a current DEECA employee, please apply via DEECA Careers.
Click the ‘Apply’ button and you'll be redirected to a new platform and create an account.
Applications close 11.59pm on Monday, 24 August 2026.
All applications must be submitted through the online portal. We are unable to consider email or manual applications at this time.
Other relevant information:
Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check.
To be eligible for appointment to this role, applicants will possess corresponding work rights for the advertised employment period. Appointment to an ongoing position is only available to an Australian/New Zealand citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident.
An inclusive, culturally safe and flexible workplace
DEECA fosters an inclusive workplace culture and is committed to a fair, accessible, and equitable recruitment process.
We strongly encourage Aboriginal and or Torres Strait Islander people to apply. We recognise the strengths, knowledge and perspectives First Nations people bring and DEECA is committed to a culturally safe and respectful workplace. If you need support to participate, please contact [email protected].
We support flexible working arrangements, including hybrid work, varied hours, part-time work and job sharing. For more information about our recruitment processes, visit applying for a role with us.
