Rewarding opportunity to work on Country for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples. By joining our operational teams, you will learn to challenge your skills and grow knowledge in delivering forest management in Victoria's state forests. You will undertake fire management and fighting activities in Victoria's national parks, state forests and protected public land. DEECA value the knowledge and contribution that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders make on country. DEECA support our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees to connect through regional networks, and contribute, learn and achieve as part of our workforce.

Team members operate within workcentres and are responsible for implementing a wide range of operational tasks and fire prevention activities. The Forest and Fire Operations Officer assists more experienced employees in a broad range of activities to learn and understand processes and priorities.

These positions have a strong focus on emergency response and may involve being deployed across the state for periods up to 7-days, for both emergency response and planned burning activities. These activities require a high level of fitness, as the work environment can be steep and remote from vehicles.

Specialist/Technical Expertise:

• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Victorian Aboriginal cultures and societies and ability to communicate effectively with Aboriginal people is desired.
• Experience working in bushfire response or forest operations is desirable.
• Understanding of application of safe work practices including awareness of regulations and codes of practice and safety documentation systems is desirable.

These are ongoing positions. These positions are located at Barwon Downs and Cann River.

For further information about the key accountabilities, skills and experience required for each role and contact details please refer to the attached position description.

Applicants must hold a current manual Drivers Licence (conditions A, I & V not acceptable for employment).

To be considered for these positions, you will be required to:

1. Download and complete the attached Band 2 – FFOO DAP Application Form in MS Word demonstrating that you meet the mandatory requirements and selection criteria.
2. Click apply now, complete the online application, attach your application form and resume and submit.

Applications close at midnight on Tuesday, 4 April 2023.

You may also be interested in applying for one of our other Forest and Fire Operations Officer (Designated Aboriginal Positions):

• Band 3 Forest and Fire Operations Officer – Technical Lead (Gellibrand)
• Band 3 Forest and Fire Operations Officer – Field Team Leader (Briagolong)

Other relevant information:

Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form, a National Police Check and meet the medical and fitness requirements outlined in the position description. Recruitment is subject to the prospective employee confirming their vaccination status as up to date (3 doses) or providing evidence that they are medically exempt.

Successful applicants will be required to successfully complete the DEECA General Firefighter accreditation.

A Diverse, Inclusive and Flexible Workplace

This position is designated for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people under s.12 Special Measures of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010. Confirmation of Aboriginality will be required for appointment to this position. Only Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are eligible to apply.

We recognise the significant responsibility to enable self-determination, be accountable to Traditional Owners and provide opportunities to strengthen First Peoples' connection to Country. We are committed to creating a culturally safe environment, where individuals feel safe, valued, and able to celebrate their culture, and spiritual and belief systems.

For general information about Aboriginal Employment at DELWP, please contact self.determination@delwp.vic.gov.au.