Chief Fire & Forest Operations Leader

Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work

Diverse and inclusive workplace

Job summary

The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) seeks a Chief Fire Officer to lead the Forest and Fire Operations Division in Melbourne, overseeing integrated fire, land and emergency management. The role drives prevention, preparedness, response and recovery across public land and communities.

You will lead a large, dispersed workforce, advocate culturally informed fire practices with Traditional Owners, and partner with government and emergency services to keep Victorians safe.

Qualifications

• Experience leading large teams in high-stakes operating environments.
• Knowledge of land, forest or park management.
• Experience in fire or other emergencies management with strategic view.
• Sound governance and accountability understanding.
• Ability to work with a wide range of stakeholders and media.

Responsibilities

• Lead integrated forest, fire and emergency management, including planned burning, roading, recreation, cultural heritage, and pest and weed management.
• Guide the full risk cycle – prevention, preparedness, response and recovery – with fuel management as central to bushfire response.
• Partner across the land management and emergency services ecosystem to keep Victorian communities safe.
• Advance Traditional Owner-led cultural burning and build a safety-first, high-performing culture across a large workforce.
• Serve as the public voice of DEECA's land and fire management, providing trusted advice to the Minister and Secretary.

Skills

Leadership

Emergency management

Strategic planning

Stakeholder engagement

Public sector governance

Job description

The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) seeks a Chief Fire Officer to lead the Forest and Fire Operations Division in Melbourne, overseeing integrated fire, land and emergency management. The role drives prevention, preparedness, response and recovery across public land and communities.

You will lead a large, dispersed workforce, advocate culturally informed fire practices with Traditional Owners, and partner with government and emergency services to keep Victorians safe.