MAKE A REAL IMPACT PROTECTING OUR REGION
We are seeking an experienced Team Leader – Firebreak Management to lead the delivery of firebreak and bushland asset maintenance across the Toowoomba region. This is a hands-on leadership role, working alongside a skilled team of Plant Operators to help protect our community, environment and infrastructure.
If you're a practical leader with strong fire management, plant operation and bushland experience, this role offers meaningful work, stability and excellent work-life balance.
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About the Role
As the Team Leader – Firebreak Management, you will:
* Lead and supervise a Firebreak Management team to deliver high-quality fire management services.
* Plan, organise and oversee firebreak construction and maintenance works.
* Participate in burning operations and broader bushland park activities as required.
* Provide on-site training, guidance and support to team members.
* Ensure safe work practices are followed at all times.
* Liaise professionally with residents, ratepayers and stakeholders.
* Complete required documentation and reporting accurately and on time.
This role requires both leadership capability and hands-on operational experience.
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Key Responsibilities
* Supervise and lead staff using sound judgement to organise work, plant and resources.
* Identify and resolve operational issues and contribute to best-practice bushland management.
* Operate and oversee the safe use of plant, tools, equipment, chemicals and PPE.
* Maintain strong communication within the team and across Council workgroups.
* Work collaboratively with Conservation and Pest Management teams.
* Ensure compliance with workplace health and safety requirements.
* Deliver services efficiently while maintaining high safety and quality standards.
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About You
You are:
* A confident, practical leader who leads by example.
* Experienced in firebreak construction, bushland maintenance and plant operation.
* Safety-focused with a strong understanding of WHS requirements.
* Comfortable working outdoors in physically demanding conditions.
* A clear communicator who works well with teams and the community.
* Organised, reliable and accountable.
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Essential & Desirable Qualifications and Experience
Essential
* Year 12 (or equivalent) plus relevant experience and competency.
* Current C Class Driver's Licence.
* White Card (or willingness to obtain prior to commencement).
* RIIMPO315E Conduct Tractor Operations (or equivalent).
* Ability to perform physical labouring tasks.
Required (or willingness to obtain within stated timeframes)
* HR Driver's Licence – within 3 months.
* Agricultural Chemical Distribution Certificate (ACDC) – within 6 months.
* Chainsaw Certificates (basic felling; safety, maintenance & crosscutting) – within 6 months.
* First Aid (HLTAID011) and CPR (HLTAID009).
* 4WD Vehicle Operation & Recovery – within 6 months.
* Bushfire Fighter – Crew Leader Accreditation – within 6 months.
* Bushfire Fighter – Crew Member Accreditation – within 6 months.
Desirable
* Certificate III or IV in Conservation & Land Management (or related field).
* Traffic Management and Working Near Traffic certifications.
* Restricted Coxswain's Ticket.
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What We Offer
* Permanent full-time role based at the Principal Depot – Charlton.
* $1,381.83 gross per week (38 hours % annual leave loading.
* Up to 12.65% superannuation.
* 9-day fortnight and access to banked leave.
* Strong focus on work/life balance.
* Professional development and leadership opportunities.
* Salary sacrificing options.
* Corporate health insurance discounts.
* Fitness Passport Program.
* Employee Assistance Program (24/7 confidential support).
* Active social club.
* A safety-focused workplace – home safe every day.
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How to Apply
To be considered, please submit:
1. Your current resume
2. A short response (maximum 2 pages) addressing the key requirements in the Position Description.
When responding:
* Use headings for each requirement.
* Provide clear examples of what you did, how you did it, and the outcome achieved.
Important: Applications that do not address each key requirement may not be considered.
For full details, please download the Position Description from our website.
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Pre-Employment Checks
The preferred candidate will be required to complete:
* Criminal History Check
* Pre-employment medical assessment
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Further Information
For a confidential discussion, contact:
Simon Bannister, Coordinator, Conservation & Pest Management Operations on business hours)
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Closing Date
Sunday, 8 February 2026 at 11:45pm
Apply online at:
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About Council
The Toowoomba region is about rich traditions and bold ambitions. Our long and proud agricultural history has evolved Toowoomba into Australia's second largest inland city supporting diverse townships in the council area and acting as a service centre for South West Qld and North West NSW. The region is boldly forging new opportunities around the Surat Basin resource sector, education, health, transport and massive infrastructure investments. Growth hasn't come at the expense of liveability though, with Toowoomba twice voted in the top 5 most family friendly cities in Australia.
Toowoomba Regional Council services a regional population of 178,500 and employs a team of approximately 1,600 staff, dedicated and passionate about delivering excellent customer service to the community, residents and visitors throughout the region. We recognise that our success depends upon attracting and retaining skilled and talented staff and offer a wide variety of interesting challenges and opportunities to develop your career.
Council does not accept unsolicited agency approaches or applications for this or any other vacancy. No response will be provided.