- Field Officer 1-2 Identified (Widjabul Wia-bal targeted role)
- Ongoing full-time opportunity
- Based in Alstonville
- Salary relative to experience, and ranges from $58,863 to $64,620 + employer's contribution to superannuation
Do you want your work to make a difference for NSW?
Join a team working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.
National Parks and Wildlife Service has a unique opportunity for a Field Officer 1-2 Identified (Widjabul Wia-bal targeted) to work as part of the team and contribute towards the conservation of the natural environment, flora, fauna and Aboriginal cultural heritage.
This is an Aboriginal Identified role where Aboriginal identity, cultural knowledge or connections are a
genuine aspect of the role. Preferential award will apply to suitable Widjabul Wia-bal applicants.
Positions are specifically noted under the provisions of the NSW Anti-discrimination Act (1977).
About the role
The Richmond River Area of NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service includes 42 reserves totalling around 138,500 hectares across Ballina, Byron, Clarence, Lismore, Richmond Valley and Tenterfield Local Government Areas. Spanning coastal, swamp, dry forest, wet forest and rainforest habitats Richmond River Area is one of the most biodiverse in NSW.
The richness of Richmond River Area does not stop with its biodiversity. With over 85% of the National Parks in the Area with Native Title determined, we are proud to work with the Bandjalang, Githabul, Western Bundjalung and Widjabul Wia-bal Aboriginal communities in the protection of their country and in the joint management of the parks.
As a Field Officer with the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), you’ll support the care, maintenance and protection of NSW national parks and reserves. This is a hands‑on, outdoor role where you’ll assist with maintaining visitor facilities, tracks, roads and park infrastructure, carry out pest, weed and fire management activities, and support conservation and restoration works.
You’ll work as part of a team, operating vehicles, tools and equipment, helping keep parks safe and welcoming for visitors, and contributing to fire and emergency response activities with appropriate training. This role suits people who enjoy physical work, being outdoors, and learning new skills while making a practical contribution to protecting our natural and cultural heritage.
NPWS is transitioning to a Field Officer Grade 1–4 classification. Successful candidates for this role will transition to the updated model as it is implemented, with progression based on satisfactory performance, demonstrated achievement of the mandatory competencies for each grade, and time in the role.
About You
Your passion for your community and environment, coupled with a strong attention to detail and safety will be key to your success in this role. You will have the ability to think on your feet and enjoy working in dynamic teams. Your fitness, enthusiasm and ability to work in small teams will enable you to thrive and succeed in this diverse and dynamic role.
We’re looking for enthusiastic and practical people who enjoy working outdoors and want to make a positive contribution to caring for NSW’s national parks and reserves.
You’ll be someone who:
- Enjoys hands‑on, physical work in outdoor environments
- Is reliable, safety‑focused and motivated to learn new skills
- Works well as part of a team and follows direction
- Has a positive attitude and takes pride in a job well done
- Is committed to protecting the natural environment and cultural heritage
- Is comfortable interacting with park visitors and supporting a safe visitor experience
This role is ideal for people who like variety in their workday, enjoy being outdoors, and want to build practical skills while contributing to conservation and community outcomes.
Essential requirements
- This is an Identified role under Section 14d of the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 and as such Aboriginality is an essential requirement of the role.
- Aboriginal identified positions are developed where Aboriginal identity, cultural knowledge or connections are a genuine aspect of the role. Positions are specifically noted under the provisions of the NSW Anti-discrimination Act (1977) for Aboriginal people who meet the following criteria:
- is of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent, and
- identifies as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person, and
- is accepted as such by the Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander community.
- People from the Widjabul Wia-bal native title group are particulalry encouraged to apply.
- Current Australian Class C Drivers licence or equivalent, and ability to drive 4wd vehicles.
- Ability to obtain and use MR License where appropriate
- Demonstrated ability and experience to carry out all duties safely and ability to obtain relevant SafeWork NSW certification to appropriately operate and maintain a range of plant and equipment, including but not limited to conditionally registered vehicles, , lifting apparatus and minor road maintenance plant as well as the ability and willingness to obtain a First Aid certificate.
- Certification, or ability to obtain certification within the probationary period (up to 12 months), in operating a chainsaw to crosscut or basic tree felling standard; ability to operate two-way radio.
- Ability to carry out frontline firefighting duties and support roles including, ability to obtain and maintain certification as crew member within the probationary period (up to 12 months), and a willingness to fly in light aircraft.
This is a physically active role suited to candidates of all genders who are fit, enjoy working outdoors as part of a team, and are eager to learn and develop the skills and qualifications needed to contribute toward improving and maintaining NSW’s most precious natural places.
Field Officer applicants must meet the requirements of a firefighting medical which is inclusive of a clearance to undertake frontline firefighting roles. The applicant must pass the task-based fitness assessment to a moderate level within the probationary period (up to 12 months) and annually thereafter.
For more information read the full Role Description: Field Officer Grade 1-2 (Aboriginal Identified)
Who we are
The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) works to protect the state’s environment and heritage. It leads the way on climate change, driving the sustainable transition to a net zero economy, powered by affordable, reliable, and clean energy.
DCCEEW conserves and protects the state’s natural environment. It manages the NSW national park estate, including its rich and diverse biodiversity and Aboriginal cultural heritage for future generations.
DCCEEW also ensures sustainable management of water resources across the state, to support the environment, communities and industry.
We acknowledge the ongoing custodial responsibilities of the Aboriginal peoples of NSW to care for Country and water and are committed to establishing meaningful partnerships with Aboriginal peoples in the management of the environment.
What we can offer you
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service is a great place to expand your career and grow your skills and knowledge.
- Accrued days off in addition to Annual Leave
- Corporate wellbeing programs, including the Fitness Passport
- Learning and development opportunities, including in-house training.
What we do
About NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service
Visit a park
North Coast Branch Overview
To Apply
Submit your application, including a copy of your resume and cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role.
To be eligible for an ongoing role in the NSW Public Sector you need to be an Australian Citizen, New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident. For temporary and casual roles, you need to hold a valid visa giving you permission to work in Australia as required by the role.
Applications close: Wednesday 3 June 2026 at 11:55pm
If you require further information about the role please contact George Worthington via george.worthington@dcceew.nsw.gov.au or on 0437 173 560.
A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary opportunities of the same role or role type that may become available over the next 18 months.
Our goal is to build a workforce that not only represents but also understands and serves the diverse communities of New South Wales. We are committed to making our state a vibrant and inclusive place to live, work, and thrive for everyone. Our workforce represents people of all ages and genders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities, the LGBTQI+ community, and people from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
Looking for more information or assistance in applying?
If you require an adjustment for your application process, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team by emailing dcceew.ta@dpie.npws.gov.au or contacting Kylie Miller on 0459 877 821 (please mention reference number 549144).
If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander use our Aboriginal applicants guide to assist with applying for roles or our Aboriginal Career pathways team at AEX@dcceew.nsw.gov.au for a yarn.
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Role Description
