Executive Leader, Forest & Fire Operations

Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action VIC; Melbourne; Hybrid; AUD 250,000 - 350,000; Full time

Job summary

Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action VIC in Melbourne seeks a Chief Fire Officer to lead the Forest and Fire Operations Division. You will oversee integrated fire and emergency management, and drive prevention, preparedness, response and recovery across public lands.

You will shape policy, supervise large teams, and act as a trusted public voice during crises, with extensive travel and stakeholder engagement across Victoria.

Qualifications

• Experience leading large teams in high-stakes environments.
• Strong governance and accountability understanding for public sector.
• Ability to manage strategic and operational risk.
• Confident communicator and spokesperson during crises.
• Proven stakeholder engagement across diverse partners and communities.

Responsibilities

• Lead integrated forest, fire and emergency management, including planned burning, roading, recreation, heritage, and pest/weed management.
• Guide the full risk cycle – prevention, preparedness, response and recovery – with fuel management central to bushfire operations.
• Partner across land management and emergency services to keep communities safe.
• Advance Traditional Owner-led cultural burning and build a safety-first culture.
• Serve as public voice and provide trusted advice to Ministers and senior executives.

Skills

Leadership

Governance

Risk management

Media spokesperson

Stakeholder engagement

Cultural burning

Public sector

Tools

N/A

Job description

Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action VIC in Melbourne seeks a Chief Fire Officer to lead the Forest and Fire Operations Division. You will oversee integrated fire and emergency management, and drive prevention, preparedness, response and recovery across public lands.

You will shape policy, supervise large teams, and act as a trusted public voice during crises, with extensive travel and stakeholder engagement across Victoria.