- Field Officer (Grade 1-4)
- Casual x 4 positions - no guaranteed hours
- Office location – South Grafton
- Casual rates apply, relative to experience, and ranges from $33.20 to $44.29 per hour plus casual loading and employer's contribution to superannuation
Do you want your work to make a difference for NSW?
Working to protect the state’s environment and heritage.
About the role
National Parks and Wildlife Service has a unique opportunity for a Field Officer to work as part of the team and contribute towards the conservation of the natural environment, flora, fauna and Aboriginal heritage.
Join the North Coast Branch of the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) as a Casual Field Officer based in the beautiful South Grafton region. This is a rewarding opportunity to work in some of NSW's most spectacular natural environments, contributing to the protection, maintenance and enhancement of national parks and reserves. In this hands-on role, you will undertake a diverse range of operational duties including asset construction and maintenance, weed and feral animal control, visitor facility upkeep, fire management activities, park rehabilitation projects, and the operation of a variety of plant and equipment.
No two days are the same. From maintaining walking tracks and campgrounds to supporting conservation programs and assisting park visitors, you'll play a vital role in ensuring our parks remain safe, accessible and enjoyable for the community while protecting their natural and cultural heritage values for future generations.
About You
We're looking for motivated, practical and reliable individuals who enjoy working outdoors and take pride in achieving high-quality outcomes. This is a highly hands-on role that involves a diverse range of field-based activities across some of the North Coast's most significant natural and cultural landscapes. You will be physically fit, safety-focused and capable of working both independently and as part of a team in remote, rugged and sometimes challenging environments.
The role encompasses a broad range of operational responsibilities, including construction and maintenance works, fire management activities, pest and weed control programs, visitor facility maintenance, asset inspections and general park operations. You'll be comfortable undertaking physical work in an outdoor setting, operating tools, equipment and machinery, and adapting to changing priorities and environmental conditions.
The ideal candidate will bring strong communication and teamwork skills, a positive attitude and a genuine passion for conservation and land management. Whether you already have experience in park operations, construction and maintenance, firefighting, environmental management or related field-based work, or are looking to build a rewarding career in conservation, this role offers an excellent opportunity to develop your skills while making a meaningful contribution to the protection and management of some of the North Coast's most treasured natural places.
Key knowledge and experience
- Willingness to exercise delegated authority for compliance activities.
- Ability to use computer systems, tablet devices and communicate and operate a two-way radio.
- Ability to appropriately operate and maintain a range of plant and equipment, including but not limited to conditionally registered vehicles, watercraft (non-coxswain), lifting apparatus and appropriate plant.
Essential requirements - As detailed in the Role Description
- Current Australian Class C Drivers licence or equivalent.
- Ability to obtain Medium Rigid (MR) Licence and operate MR vehicles, if required.
- Obtain a Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) Recovery Certification (Statement of Attainment) within 6 months of commencement as arranged by NPWS with compliant providers
- First Aid certificate obtained within 6 months of commencement.
- Obtain General Construction Induction card (White Card) within 6 months from commencement.
- Certification (Statement of Attainment) to operate a chainsaw to level 1 crosscut standard obtained within 12 months from commencement.
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.
Successful candidates must meet the requirements of a pre-employment medical assessment during the recruitment process, including obtaining medical clearance to perform the duties associated with the role.
For more information read the full Role Description: Field Officer NPWS Grade FO 1-4 RD
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.
- 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
If excited by the information above, we look forward to receiving your application, including a copy of your resume and cover letter expressing your interest and suitability for the role.
Please also note, 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 Sunday 20 September 2026 at 11:55pm
Should you require further information about the role please contact Hiring Manager Fred Basanovic via Fred.Basanovic@dcceew.nsw.gov.au or on 0415 701 554.
A recruitment pool may be created for casual 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.nsw.gov.au or contacting Ronda Swaysland on 0400 288 239 (please mention reference number 552920).
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
