The CFA are proud of the work we do, protecting lives and property, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

With over 51,000 volunteers CFA strives to be an organisation of choice for volunteers and employees. We, embrace individuals with diverse skills, experience and backgrounds, recognising the unique value they bring to CFA.

Want to read more about the Country Fire Authority (CFA) click here. 

About the Role

CFA Aviation ensures statewide operational readiness, response, training and learning. The team also helps develop and implement aviation programs, including the use of flight simulators and Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS).

The Lead Aviation Officer oversees the CFA RPAS program and evaluates aviation training to strengthen volunteer capabilities. They support the Commander Aviation in standardising training practices, working with Fire and Emergency Management (F&EM) and District Planning Committee (DPC) Training Subcommittees to boost brigade capability and viability.

Key responsibilities of the role will include the following:

• Develop comprehensive training kits and session plans, using aviation simulation technology and CFA protocols for effective learning.
• Collaborate with the Commander Aviation to create a district-specific training plan using fire aviation simulators, enhancing readiness.
• Formulate a sustainable program model, documenting an Aviation Computer-Based Simulation (CBS) manual and integrating it into current training programs.
• Coordinate aviation training schedules, ensuring alignment with strategic goals through detailed planning for both crewed aircraft and RPAS.
• Administer the CFA RPAS program as Chief Remote Pilot, securing necessary CASA certifications within deadlines.
• Manage simulation session bookings, including after-hours operations, to maximise training access and impact.
• Provide expert advice to the Commander Aviation on RPAS capabilities, training and strategic applications.
• Manage program documentation in line with State Government regulations, ensuring accessibility and security.
• Build relationships with other emergency services and industry stakeholders to enhance CFA's RPAS capabilities.
• Conduct risk assessments and troubleshooting, ensuring safety and operational effectiveness.
• Improve aviation training by analysing performance data and integrating lessons learned.
• Train simulator facilitators and role players, developing packages to improve simulation-based learning.
• Participate in aviation simulation sessions, ensuring smooth execution and participant engagement.
• Perform additional duties as needed to support CFA Aviation Services and strategic goals.

About You

Our ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate the following:

• Proficiency in Intermediate IT skills, including the ability to utilise a range of software applications to support aviation training and operational management effectively.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills that enable collaboration with key stakeholders and the ability to address complex challenges within aviation services.
• Extensive experience in fire and emergency aviation with a deep understanding of the state and regional air operations structure, as well as the capability to implement strategic initiatives that enhance operational readiness.
• Demonstrated ability to produce comprehensive reports and correspondence that convey clear and actionable information to both internal and external stakeholders.
• Proven administrative skills and experience, including proficiency in word processing and spreadsheets.
• Maintain professional relationships with diverse stakeholders across the organisation.
• Demonstrated ability to work autonomously and as a highly effective member of a team, ensuring that objectives are met through self-driven initiative and teamwork

Why choose CFA

• Meaningful Purpose: Your contribution truly makes a difference
• Work-Life Balance: Paid parental leave, generous leave provisions
• Growth Opportunities: Learning and development
• Flexibility: Hybrid work options with flexible work arrangements
• Discounts: Emergency Memberlink discounts on various services
• Wellbeing Focus: Healthy for Life programs, flu vaccinations
• Member Assistance Program: Access support across 8 service pathways

Your Application

Click the 'apply' button to access our online application form. Here you will be asked to provide personal and contact details and respond to employment-related questions.

When applying for a position with CFA, please submit a cover letter and resume that demonstrates your qualifications, experience, key attributes and skills required for the position.

Pre-employment Checks

Offers of employment will only be made to candidates who:

• Successfully complete a National Police History Check, Working Rights Check and hold a valid Working with Children Check.

CFA is committed to creating and maintaining a diverse, inclusive, and safe volunteer and work environment. Our aim is to have a volunteer and paid workforce that reflects the community it serves.  First Nations people, women, people of all ages, with disabilities and culturally and linguistically diverse people are encouraged to apply. 

Applications close: 11:59pm 16^th October 2024.

If at any stage of the recruitment and selection process you require an alternative format to the application material or reasonable adjustment to the interview arrangements, please don't hesitate to contact the person listed on the ad or alternatively, email recruitment@cfa.vic.gov.au

The Country Fire Authority (CFA) values your privacy. We will use the information you provide when you are applying for employment with us for the purpose of recruitment, selection, evaluation and appointment and to report on anonymised key metrics (e.g. diversity). The information we collect will be handled in accordance with privacy laws, including the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014.   You can view our Privacy Statement here. For access and correction of the information we have collected, contact recruitment@cfa.vic.gov.au