(WESTERN BORDER)

The Rural Fire Service (RFS) is the lead agency for bushfire management and mitigation in NSW. Fighting fires and protecting the community from emergencies is what we do.

OPERATIONAL OFFICER LEVEL 3

The Operational Officer (OpO) Program is an RFS initiative to create and encourage a mobile and agile workforce across the state. The program offers 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 bushfires 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 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 or .

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.

Our ideal candidate:

The ideal candidate will be a motivated and community focused professional with solid 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 agile 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 robust 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 PUAOPE023)
- Diploma in a relevant discipline (e.g. 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.

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!

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.

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📌 Operational Officer Level 3 (Broken Hill)
🏢 NSW Rural Fire Service
📍 Broken Hill