Bushfire and Forest Services Inventory Controller

Lead inventory management and business intelligence that keeps critical emergency management assets available, visible and ready when Victoria needs them most.

Are you an experienced inventory management professional who enjoys analysing data, driving continuous improvement and delivering operational outcomes that make a real difference?

The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) is seeking an Inventory Controller to lead inventory management across Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) warehouses and support broader emergency management operations throughout Victoria.

This is an opportunity to join a purpose-driven team responsible for ensuring critical inventory is accurately recorded, securely stored and readily available to support operational and emergency response activities. You will work closely with warehouse teams, suppliers, finance and procurement stakeholders to strengthen inventory control, improve data integrity and enhance operational readiness across the state.

As an Inventory Controller, you will play a key role in driving consistent inventory management practices, leading business intelligence and reporting initiatives, and supporting the successful operation of FFMVic's Inventory Management Solution. You will help ensure critical parts, consumables and operational materials are available when and where they are needed while identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, visibility and value for money.

About the role

You will bring:

• Experience managing inventory, warehouse operations, stock control or supply chain activities across complex operational environments
• Highly developed business intelligence, data analytics and reporting capabilities, including experience developing dashboards and performance reporting solutions
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, particularly in investigating variances, identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions
• Experience maintaining inventory management systems and ensuring data accuracy, integrity and governance compliance
• Demonstrated ability to lead inventory improvement initiatives that enhance service delivery, reduce costs and improve operational outcomes
• Experience collaborating with procurement, finance, operational teams and suppliers to deliver effective inventory management practices
• A focus on safety, continuous improvement and customer service
• A relevant degree or diploma qualification
• A current driver's licence and willingness to travel as required
• A forklift licence (LF), or willingness to obtain one if required.

This role may require physically demanding activities including heavy lifting, prolonged standing, manual handling and work in warehouse environments. The position may also support emergency management activities and requires flexibility during periods of heightened operational demand.

Why join us?

You will be part of a collaborative and supportive team that values safety, integrity, readiness and continuous improvement.

DEECA offers:

• Meaningful work supporting Victoria's emergency management capability
• Opportunities to lead statewide inventory management improvements and reforms
• Involvement in business intelligence, analytics and data-driven decision-making initiatives
• a flexible and inclusive workplace with hybrid working arrangements
• Opportunities for professional development and leadership growth
• The chance to work with a diverse range of operational, commercial and emergency management stakeholders across Victoria.

About DEECA

DEECA works to create liveable, inclusive and sustainable communities, environments and industries across Victoria. We value responsiveness, integrity, impartiality, accountability, respect, leadership and human rights.

We are committed to creating a culturally safe, diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel respected, valued and supported to contribute.

Interested?

For further information, please contact Andrew Loader, Director, Commercial, Logistics and Resources on 0438 491 874.

This is an ongoing position. The work location for this position is Kyle Road, Altona North with hybrid work arrangements available.

To be considered for this position, applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter (no longer than 2 pages) summarising their skills and relevant experience.

Please refer to the Key Selection Criteria provided in the Position Description, including the mandatory requirements.

How to Apply:

If you are a current DEECA employee, please apply via DEECA Careers. 

Click the ‘Apply’ button and you'll be redirected to a new platform and create an account.

Applications close 11.59pm on Sunday, 27 September 2026.

All applications must be submitted through the online portal. We are unable to consider email or manual applications at this time.

Other relevant information:

Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check.

To be eligible for appointment to this role, applicants will possess corresponding work rights for the advertised employment period. Appointment to an ongoing position is only available to an Australian/New Zealand citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident.

An inclusive, culturally safe and flexible workplace

DEECA fosters an inclusive workplace culture and is committed to a fair, accessible, and equitable recruitment process.

We strongly encourage Aboriginal and or Torres Strait Islander people to apply.  We recognise the strengths, knowledge and perspectives First Nations people bring and DEECA is committed to a culturally safe and respectful workplace.  If you need support to participate, please contact aboriginal.employment@deeca.vic.gov.au.

We support flexible working arrangements, including hybrid work, varied hours, part-time work and job sharing.  For more information about our recruitment processes, visit applying for a role with us.