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

About the role

National Parks and Wildlife Service has a unique opportunity for a Field Officer 1/2 to work as part of the team and contribute towards the conservation of the natural environment, flora, fauna and Aboriginal heritage.

The Richmond River Area of NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service includes 42 reserves totalling around 138,500 hectares across Ballina, Byron, Clarence, Lismore, Richmond Valley and Tenterfield Local Government Areas. Spanning coastal, swamp, dry forest, wet forest and rainforest habitats Richmond River Area is one of the most biodiverse in NSW.

The richness of Richmond River Area does not stop with its biodiversity. With over 85% of the National Parks in the Area with Native Title determined, we are proud to work with the Bandjalang, Githabul, Western Bundjalung and Widjabul Wia-bul Aboriginal communities in the protection of their country and in the joint management of the parks.

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 will have the ability to think on your feet and enjoy working in dynamic Team and at times 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.

Essential Requirements

• Current Australian Class C Drivers licence or equivalent, and ability to drive 4wd vehicles.
• Ability to obtain and use MR Licence where appropriate.
• 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 (non-coxswain), lifting apparatus and minor 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 or 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 crew member 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.

Who we are

The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) works to protect the state's environment and heritage. It leads the way on climate change, driving the sustainable transition to a net zero economy, powered by affordable, reliable, and clean energy.

DCCEEW conserves and protects the state's natural environment. It manages the NSW national park estate, including its rich and diverse biodiversity and Aboriginal cultural heritage for future generations.

DCCEEW also ensures sustainable management of water resources across the state, to support the environment, communities and industry.

We acknowledge the ongoing custodial responsibilities of the Aboriginal peoples of NSW to care for Country and water and are committed to establishing meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal peoples in the management of the environment.

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.

Our goal is to build a workforce that not only represents but also understands and serves the diverse communities of New South Wales. We are committed to making our state a vibrant and inclusive place to live, work, and thrive for everyone. Our workforce represents people of all ages and genders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities, the LGBTQI+ community, and people from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.