Job description
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 $115,109 - $127,411 p.a. plus 12% superannuation
Location: Broken Hill, Western Border District
Limited free onsite car parking available, and access to public transport
Annualised Conditions Allowance, Remote Area Allowance and additional Western Zone Leave may apply
What you'll be doing:
Be at the frontline of protecting NSW communities. As an Operational Officer Level 3, you'll coordinate and deliver technical and operational support to strengthen bush fire preparedness, response, and recovery. You will work closely with volunteers, partner agencies, and local communities, help shape procedures and guidelines, maintain critical corporate systems, and step into operational activities when required. Sound judgement, initiative, and a strong customer focus will underpin every task.
To thrive in this role, you will:
Be an experienced operational professional with the ability to support the protection of communities from bush fires and other emergencies
Thrive in a volunteer‐based, community‐centred emergency services environment
Demonstrate strong leadership, judgement, and resilience
In addition to the above, candidates should hold the following essential requirements:




RFS Group Leader Qualification (or the equivalent National Units of Competency PUAOPE016 and PUAOPE023)
Diploma in a relevant discipline (e.g. Emergency Management, Project Management, Leadership) or equivalent expertise
Level 2 Principal IMT qualification (e.g. Planning, Operations, Logistics, Control)
A current Driver Licence and the willingness and ability to travel
Willingness to complete an Operational Officer Medical Assessment certifying the required level of general health and fitness (external candidates only)
Please note: Those with equivalent qualifications are encouraged to apply, the RFS will review and determine eligibility on a case‐by‐case basis.
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
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.




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 8 February ****.
Key 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: R******
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.
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📌 Operational Officer Level 3 (Broken Hill)
🏢 Nsw Government
📍 Broken Hill