OPERATIONAL OFFICER LEVEL 3
(NORTHERN TABLELANDS)
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
* 35 hour working week and generous entitlements
* RFS Level 8/9
* Attractive annual salary $115,109 - $127,411 p.a. plus 12% superannuation
* An annualised conditions allowance (ACA) of up to 15% may be applicable
* Location: Glen Innes, Northern Tablelands District
* Limited free onsite parking is available
Looking for more information?
Why not reach out to our role expert, Scott Keelan, District Manager, for a confidential chat on
About our ideal candidate:
We are seeking a leader who will model and foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, safety, and continuous improvement. Your responsibilities will include involvement in incident management and control, leading targeted prescribed burning programs, coordinating public information, and delivering purposeful training to equip our members for the demands of the future.
Success in this role requires sound, confident decision-making within your portfolio and delegations, along with a strong understanding of volunteer-based service delivery and the unique challenges and opportunities it brings.
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.
If you are interested in finding out more about this opportunity, please access the role descriptionand 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)
* A copy of your qualifications and other relevant documentation as per the essential requirements of the role
Please submit your application no later than 11:55pm Monday 26 January 2026.
Important recruitment Information
* A recruitment (talent) pool for North Eastern 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. The next induction is scheduled to commence in February 2026.
* 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: R25/387
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.