Looking for an adventure-packed job that makes a real impact on Victoria's stunning landscapes?

We are seeking passionate individuals like you to become Fire Lookout Observers (FLO) in the Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMV) Fire Lookout network.

As a Fire Lookout Observer, you'll play a vital role in the early detection of fires across Victoria's National Parks, State Forests, Protected Public Land and select private properties. Your sharp eyes and unwavering dedication will help protect our natural treasures from devastating blazes. You'll be part of a dynamic team, interacting with departmental personnel, contractors and the local community.

Your primary focus will be detecting and monitoring fires, assessing their location, size, direction and behaviour. Your keen map reading skills and navigation expertise will be put to the test as you pinpoint ground locations, identify map references and locate fires using compass bearings and distance estimates.

Additionally, you may support emergency response and planned burning activities across multiple towers within your district.

Get ready for breathtaking views and a career-defining experience!

To excel in this role, you'll need:

• A current Drivers Licence.
• Access to reliable transportation suitable to commute to and from various tower locations (4x4 preferred).
• Be able to demonstrate their ability to read topographic maps and identify landmarks/features. Experience in conveying relevant information via a two-way radio network (desirable).
• Understanding of fire behaviour in the Victorian Landscape, commitment to work and deliver our seasonal fire detection arrangements within the Murray Goldfields Fire District. The ability to work at heights, complying with safe work practices.
• Basic administration skills such as record keeping and data collection.

This is a casual position for the 2023/24 fire season available until 31 May 2024. Salaries commence from $56,044 to $62,098 pa plus casual loading and superannuation, subject to skills and experience.

Positions are available at the following locations:

• Mt Macedon tower, position number 50920281, located approximately 16 minutes from Macedon
• Fryers Ridge tower, position number 50815461, located approximately 16 minutes from Castlemaine
• West of England tower, position number 50816257, located approximately 25 minutes from St Arnaud

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.

For further information please refer to the attached position description.

Applications close at midnight on Monday, 2 October 2023.

Other relevant information:

For this particular vacancy, priority consideration applies to Victorian Public Service (VPS) and select employees of the Victorian Public Sector who apply through the Jobs and Skills Exchange (JSE) jobs board platform.

Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form, a National Police 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 welcomes applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds and we focus on the essential requirements of the job and being consistent and fair in our treatment of all applicants. We also understand that a balanced life is important to our employees.