Forest and Fire Operations Officer - Technical Lead (Toolangi)

Do you enjoy leading crews, solving operational challenges and delivering work that makes a real difference on Victoria's public land?

As a Forest and Fire Operations Officer - Technical Lead, you'll play a key role in planning, coordinating and delivering a diverse range of forest and fire management activities across the region. From maintaining recreation assets and public land roads to supporting bushfire preparedness and emergency response, no two days are the same.

Working within the District Operations team, you'll provide technical leadership, mentor staff, coordinate work programs and help ensure the safe and efficient delivery of field operations. You'll work closely with planners, contractors, local communities and partner agencies, bringing practical expertise and local knowledge to projects that support Victoria's forests, parks and public land.

This is a hands-on role suited to someone who enjoys working outdoors, leading by example and developing others. You'll be part of a team that values safety, teamwork, capability development and continuous improvement while contributing to meaningful work that protects communities and the environment.

What you'll bring

• Experience in bushfire operations, forest operations, natural resource management or a related field.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to coordinate work programs and support the development of others.
• Sound problem-solving and decision-making capabilities in dynamic operational environments.
• A commitment to safe work practices and fostering respectful, inclusive workplaces.
• The ability to work collaboratively with a wide range of colleagues, contractors and stakeholders.

Why join us?

Bushfire and Forest Services manages more than 3.2 million hectares of Victoria's state forests and plays a critical role in preparing for, responding to and recovering from bushfires and other emergencies. You'll join a highly skilled team delivering meaningful work that supports communities, protects environmental values and helps keep Victoria safe

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

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience working in bushfire response or forest operations is desirable
• Demonstrated experience and understanding in natural resource management, preferably with good knowledge of forest management and forest operations.

This position is ongoing/fixed term until 27 August 2027, available in the regional location of Toolangi, Victoria.

You’ll have the chance to explore and protect stunning landscapes whilst earning a competitive salary ranging from $73,820 to $82,015 per annum, plus superannuation.

Your salary will reflect your skills and experience, rewarding your commitment to our mission.

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 Wednesday, 23 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, a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check and meet the medical and fitness requirements outlined in the position description.

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.

A Diverse, Inclusive 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.