Wilinggin Aboriginal Corporation – Derby WA
We are seeking a motivated and capable Fire Coordinator to support the delivery of Wilinggin Aboriginal Corporation's innovative savanna fire management program across the western region of Wilinggin Country.
In this dynamic, hands‐on role, you will contribute to planned burning, wildfire response and carbon project activities, helping to protect Country while supporting important environmental and cultural outcomes. Working alongside Traditional Owners, you will play a key part in integrating cultural fire knowledge with contemporary land management practices.
You'll collaborate with a range of partners including DBCA, neighbouring land managers, contractors and aviation providers, while building strong on‐Country relationships and supporting Traditional Owner participation.
This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys working outdoors, thrives in remote environments, and is passionate about caring for Country, community and culture.
About the Corporation: WAC was established in 2006 and is governed by a Board of Directors comprised of Ngarinyin Traditional Owners with the broad objective to further the interests of Ngarinyin People and Wilinggin Country. WAC represents the Traditional Owners of the Wanjina Wunggurr Wilinggin Native Title Area and is a related organisation and agent of our Wanjina Wunggurr Prescribed Body Corporate.
Wilinggin country covers approximately 63,000 km2 (6.3 million hectares) of land in the Central North Kimberley region of Northern Australia and is the country that has been home to Ngarinyin people for many thousands of years. WAC has a workforce of 30 to 35 people who are tasked to take care of country, culture and heritage and bush fire management.
WAC is a not‐for‐profit organisation that has, in the last five years, grown from three staff and a turnover of $500k to some 25 staff and a turnover of some $10m, based on a strong focus on high‐integrity operations and alignment with our cultural and environmental obligations.
What We Are Looking For
We are looking for a motivated, practical and community‐minded individual who is passionate about caring for Country and contributing to meaningful environmental and cultural outcomes.
You will bring hands‐on experience in fire management or land management, along with the ability to work effectively in remote and challenging environments. A strong understanding of savanna burning practices, combined with well‐developed organisational and problem‐solving skills, will see you succeed in this role.
You are someone who values collaboration and can build respectful, productive relationships with Traditional Owners, Rangers and external partners. You communicate clearly, adapt to changing conditions and take a proactive, solutions‐focused approach to your work.
We are seeking a team player who is equally comfortable working independently, takes ownership of their responsibilities, and thrives in a dynamic, field‐based role. A commitment to safety, attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities are essential.
Most importantly, you will have a genuine respect for Aboriginal culture and a strong interest in supporting Traditional Owner‐led land management and knowledge sharing on Country.
Role Duties Will Include:
* Assist with pre‐season planning, including carbon reporting and development of annual fire management plans.
* Support mapping and planning activities using GIS, fire history and cultural data.
* Coordinate with Traditional Owners, Rangers and key stakeholders to deliver fire management programs.
* Organise logistics for remote and aerial operations, including helicopters, equipment and supplies.
* Contribute to planned burning activities to protect Country, cultural sites and infrastructure.
* Monitor fire activity and analyse data to support informed, real‐time decision making.
* Maintain effective communication with Rangers, contractors and partner organisations during operations.
* Support fire suppression activities in collaboration with relevant agencies.
* Ensure equipment, fuel and operational resources are prepared, maintained and compliant.
* Assist with permits, reporting and general administrative coordination of fire program activities.
* Promote a strong safety culture and adhere to Work Health & Safety (WHS) requirements.
* Undertake other duties as required to support the fire management program.
Selection Criteria:
* Demonstrated experience in savanna fire management, including planning and delivering aerial and ground burning programs.
* Proven ability to manage logistics and operations in remote environments.
* Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with Traditional Owners, Rangers and external partners.
* Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in remote, on‐Country settings.
* Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, adapt to changing conditions and maintain confidentiality.
* Sound understanding of Work Health & Safety (WHS) practices in field‐based environments.
* High level of physical fitness and ability to work in remote, hot and humid Kimberley conditions.
Qualifications, Skills & Experience
* Tertiary qualification in Natural Resource Management, Environmental Science or a related field (desirable).
* Valid C Class (Manual) Driver's Licence.
* Four‐wheel‐drive training (e.g., TLIC2025A or equivalent) and demonstrated remote driving experience.
* Experience using GIS and mapping software to support planning and operational activities.
* Knowledge of savanna burning carbon methodologies (desirable).
* Strong computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
Ability to obtain and maintain:
* Working With Children Check (WWCC).
* National Police Clearance.
* Pre‐employment medical and fitness‐for‐work clearance.
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