• Arakwal Aboriginal Identified Opportunity - Field Officer 3/4.
• Package includes salary $68,174 - $72,606 plus 17% loading for working weekends and public holidays, and employer's contribution to superannuation.

Do you want to work to make a difference for NSW?
Working to protect the state's environment and heritage.

About the role

This is an Aboriginal Identified role where Aboriginal identity, cultural knowledge or connections are a genuine aspect of the role. Aboriginality is a genuine occupational qualification and is authorised under Section 14(d) of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1997.

National Parks and Wildlife Service has a unique opportunity for a Field Officer to work as part of the team and contribute towards the conservation of the natural environment, flora, fauna, and Aboriginal heritage.

Field Officers assist with a diverse range of activities relating to maintenance and improvement to park assets within NPWS parks and reserves. You will be guided by the senior field staff, in your day-to-day work including pest and weed control, routine maintenance, construction and installation of new assets and conservation works. You will operate and maintain plant and equipment, participate in fire management activities, respond to visitor enquiries, and assist with compliance activities as required.

About you

Your passion for your community and environment, coupled with a strong attention to detail and safety will be key to your success in this role. You'll be a strong decision-maker with the ability to lead operations at times and solve problems in the field. You'll enjoy working as part of a team but be able to work alone or with minimal supervision. Your fitness and enthusiasm will enable you to thrive and succeed in this diverse and dynamic role. You will have an understanding of the Bundjalung of Byron Bay (Arakwal) Indigenous Land Use Agreements, joint management, and local Aboriginal communities. Your knowledge in these areas will assist you in the role and working with diverse groups of people.

Essential requirements

• Applicants must be of Arakwal Aboriginal descent through parentage, identification as being Arakwal Aboriginal and accepted in the community as such. Aboriginality is a genuine occupational qualification and is authorised under Section 14(d) of the Antidiscrimination Act 1997.
• Demonstrated experience working with Aboriginal people, government organisations and communities with the ability to communicate across cultures.
• Knowledge, respect and understanding of Aboriginal cultural issues.
• Current Drivers / MR licence and ability to operate 4wd vehicles up to 4.5 tonnes/15 tonne GVM.
• Demonstrated ability and experience to carry out all duties safely and ability to obtain relevant SafeWork NSW certification to appropriately operate and maintain a range of plant and equipment, including but not limited to conditionally registered vehicles, watercraft, lifting apparatus and road maintenance plant as well as the ability and willingness to obtain a First Aid certificate.
• Certification, or ability to obtain certification within the probationary period (up to 12 months) in operating a chainsaw to crosscut and basic tree felling standard; ability to operate two-way radio.
• Ability to carry out frontline firefighting duties and support roles including ability to obtain and maintain certification as a crew member or higher, within the probationary period (up to 12 months), and a willingness to fly in light aircraft.

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.

Field Officer applicants must meet the requirements of a firefighting medical which is inclusive of a clearance to undertake frontline firefighting roles. The applicant must pass the task-based fitness assessment to a moderate level within the probationary period (up to 12 months) and annually thereafter.

Effective 1 January 2024, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is part of NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW).

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 wellbeing programs, including the Fitness Passport.
• Learning and development opportunities, including in-house training.

What we do

• About NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service.
• Visit a park.
• North Coast Branch overview.

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

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