Senior Field Officer - TAFE Students Preferred null

Job Details

• Senior Field Officer Grade 1/2
• The package includes salary of $71,365 - $75,594 employer's contribution to superannuation and 17% loading for working weekends and public holidays
• Ongoing full-time role
• Located in Bourke for two years with regular travel to Thurloo Downs and surrounding Reserves. Will transfer to be based at Thurloo Downs after 2 years.
• Successful candidates may be eligible for additional financial support on top of their salary package. This may include a remote area allowance and additional subsidies such as relocation support.

About Thurloo Downs

Thurloo Downs in the state's far north-west has recently been acquired by the NSW Government for addition to the national parks estate.  At 437,394 hectares – almost twice the size of the Australian Capital Territory – it is the largest acquisition of private land for national parks in NSW history.  It will become the third-largest national park in New South Wales.  The property contains exceptional biodiversity values, filling important gaps in the national park estate and protecting landscapes and ecosystems not found in any other national park. 

Located between Bourke and Tibooburra and boasting spectacular scenery, the property will become a must-see destination in a network of national parks in far western New South Wales. Thurloo will transition to a national park over the next 2 years as the pastoral operation winds down.  During this period, we will deliver targeted feral animal and weed control, undertake ecological and cultural heritage surveys, and plan visitor infrastructure.  The park will open to visitors from 2025–26.  Want to be a part of this history-making?

About the role

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is inviting adventurous and nature-loving individuals to help establish the third largest national park in NSW for Thurloo Downs.  You will be a key member of the team contributing towards the conservation of the natural environment, flora, fauna, and aboriginal heritage.  Initially, this role will be based in Bourke and requires regular travel to work in Thurloo Downs and surrounding Reserves.  After the two-year transition period, the role will be based at Thurloo Downs.

Senior Field Officers supervise the work of field officers and contractors to implement works and maintenance programs. Working closely with the Senior Field Supervisor/Field Supervisor and Team Leader of Field Operations, you’ll join a supportive team undertaking a diverse range of tasks to enhance and preserve the natural and cultural heritage of our parks.  This may include leading a team in the field to maintain and construct park facilities; protect cultural sites; undertake pest and weed control programs; and assist with fire management activities such as mowing, slashing, grading, hazard reduction burns, and wildfire response.

About you

Your life skills and practical knowledge along with the ability to plan work, operate independently and maintain relationships with field staff, contractors and the broader Area team will aid your success in this role. You'll be a practical decision-maker with the ability to think and solve problems on your feet. Your enthusiasm and motivation to work with others will enable you to thrive and succeed in this diverse, fast-paced role.

Essential requirements:

• Ability to work with the Department’s statutory obligations as they apply to the conservation of natural, Aboriginal, and cultural heritage and resources, and willingness to exercise delegated authority for law enforcement.
• Demonstrated experience in the maintenance/construction of general facilities and grounds. Ability to supervise and carry out all duties safely in accordance with WH&S requirements.
• Ability to implement planned field and operational activities (including pest animal and plant control); and demonstrated skills and experience in fire management.
• Demonstrated administrative and organisational skills and capacity for working with various software programs, including ability to use the Agency’s financial and asset management systems.
• Relevant WorkCover Certification, ability and experience for the appropriate operation and maintenance of machinery, plant and equipment for maintenance and construction work.
• Current Australian Class C Drivers licence or equivalent, MR Drivers Licence and ability to drive 4wd vehicles, Senior First Aid Certificate, and demonstrated ability and experience in operating MR vehicles, and willingness to fly in light aircraft.
• Certification and demonstrated ability and experience in operating chainsaw to at least cross-cut level, and ability to operate and supervise in radio usage.

This is a physically active role suited to candidates of all genders who are fit, enjoy working outdoors as part of a team, and are eager to learn and develop the skills and qualifications needed to contribute toward improving and maintaining NSW’s most precious natural places.

The role holder must obtain certification at the appropriate level prior to undertaking firefighting/incident control duties.

To view the Role Description: Senior Field Officer - For Download

What we can offer you

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service is a great place to expand your career and grow your skills and knowledge.

• Accrued days off in addition to Annual Leave
• Corporate well-being programs, including the Fitness Passport
• Learning and development opportunities, including in-house training.

How to apply

Click the "Apply on Employer Site" button.

Apply by answering all pre-screening questions, and submit a current resume and a one-page cover letter that outlines your skills and experience relevant to the role.

DPE strongly recommends all applicants who can be safely vaccinated for COVID-19, be so.

In our inclusive and accessible workplace, differences are embraced, contributions are valued, and everyone has a sense of connection and belonging. DPE supports various employee affinity groups, practices flexible working, and offers job share and workplace adjustments.

For more information about the role or future job opportunities in this region, please contact Andrew Heighway, Team Leader Field Operations, Northern Inland Branch, NPWS on 0407 570 941 or andrew.heighway@environment.nsw.gov.au

Applications close:  Wednesday 16th August 2023 at 11.55 pm

A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same role or role type that may become available for filling over the next 18 months.

Looking for more information or assistance in applying?

Our Diversity team can assist to:

• provide alternative formats to apply
• make adjustments to the recruitment process
• offer information about workplace adjustments and support networks.

If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander check out the website to see the work we do and for assistance in applying for a role. Contact our Aboriginal People & Culture team at DPIEAPC@dpie.nsw.gov.au if you need further information or assistance.

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