Seasonal Fire Tower Operator - South Coast - Casual / Call When needed

Forestry Corporation; Moruya; On-site; AUD 34,000 - 48,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Casual rate

Professional development

Supportive environment

Conservation impact

Job summary

Forestry Corporation of NSW is seeking vigilant Fire Tower Operators to support early wildfire detection from towers in NSW, with positions at Budawang tower (Braidwood) or Plumwood tower (Moruya). You'll monitor designated forest areas, identify signs of smoke, and report to the FCNSW Duty Officer.

The casual, call-when-needed role requires independence, keen observation, clear radio and written communication, and the physical ability to climb stairs and endure varying weather.

Qualifications

• Strong observational and navigation skills.
• Ability to work independently and remain focused for extended periods.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal over the radio and written.
• Ability to climb stairs and endure varied weather conditions.
• Own a registered Four Wheel Drive vehicle with comprehensive insurance.

Responsibilities

• Monitoring designated forest areas from a fire tower for signs of smoke or fire.
• Using binoculars, maps, compass and other tools to locate and report fire hazards.
• Maintaining communication with fire control centres and other tower operators.
• Recording weather conditions including wind, temperature, and humidity.
• Conducting regular maintenance and inspections of the fire tower and equipment.
• Assisting in coordinating fire suppression with ground crews and aerial support.
• Participating in training and safety drills.

Skills

Observational skills

Navigation skills

Communication

Physical fitness

Remote/location readiness

Tools

Binoculars

Maps

Compass

Job description

Seasonal Fire Tower Operators Seasonal Contract – Casual / Call when needed

Forestry Corporation of NSW is dedicated to preserving and managing our forests for future generations. We are committed to maintaining the health and safety of our natural resources and the communities that depend on them. Join our team and help us protect our forests from the threat of wildfires.

What We Can Offer You

• Competitive casual rate & applicable allowances
• Opportunities for professional development and training
• A supportive and collaborative work environment
• The chance to make a meaningful impact on forest conservation and wildfire prevention

Locations (Please state your preference in your application)

• Budawang tower - Braidwood NSW
• Plumwood tower - Moruya NSW

About the Role

We are seeking vigilant and dedicated Fire Tower Operators to join our team. As a Fire Tower Operator, you will play a crucial role in early wildfire detection and prevention. Your primary responsibility will be to monitor forest areas from a fire tower, identify potential fire hazards, and report any signs of smoke or fire to the regions FCNSW Duty Officer.

Your activities will include:

• Monitoring designated forest areas from a fire tower for signs of smoke or fire
• Using binoculars, maps, compass and other tools to accurately locate and report fire hazards
• Maintaining constant communication with fire control centres and other fire tower operators
• Recording and reporting weather conditions, including wind speed and direction, temperature, and humidity
• Conducting regular maintenance and inspections of the fire tower and equipment
• Assisting in coordinating fire suppression efforts with ground crews and aerial support
• Participating in training and safety drills to stay prepared for emergency situations

Essential Requirements, Skills and Experience

• Strong observational and navigation skills
• Ability to work independently and remain focused for extended periods
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal over the radio and written
• Physical fitness and the ability to climb two flights of stairs
• Willingness to work in remote locations and varying weather conditions
• Own a registered Four Wheel Drive Vehicle with comprehensive insurance for Fire Tower access
• Ability to work as a non-rostered casual call-when-needed employee with no set hours - deployment dependent on fire weather conditions
• Live within one hour proximity of the fire towers

Highly Regarded (Not Essential)

• Basic knowledge of fire behaviour and forest management practices

Pre-Employment Requirements

• Right to work check
• Reference checks
• Drug and Alcohol Screening
• Medical Assessment
• Fire fitness Task-Based Assessment (TBA) - Light walk 1.6km unweighted under 16 minutes

Applications close: Wednesday 4 November 2026 @ 11:59PM AEDST

At FCNSW, we care for country, community, and each other. Everyone home, injury free, every day.

For further information about the role, please contact: Peter Carstairs, Fire & Operations Team Leader: [e-mail]