Temporary Vacancy

This position is a fixed-term full-time opportunity commencing as soon as possible for a period of three (3) years with the possibility of extensions and/or permanency.

This selection process may be used to fill other similar at-level vacancies that arise within twelve (12) months. Applicants deemed suitable but not recommended may be considered for those roles.

About Us

As Western Australia’s leading hazard management agency, DFES plays a critical role in coordinating emergency services for a range of natural disasters and emergency incidents that threaten life and property.

By empowering our people, we create a diverse and capable organisation where we are united and supportive, allowing us to work better together. It’s crucial that as a collective, our employees, volunteers and the general public have all the tools they need to safely and effectively manage emergency events.

To learn more about the Department and what we have to offer, please visit our website here or follow us on LinkedIn here.

About the Role

The Chief Remote Pilot (CRP) is an exciting new role within DFES that is responsible for the safe, compliant and effective delivery of Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS)

The position leads the governance and technical oversight of RPAS operations, pilot competency, training, maintenance, records, approvals and operational readiness. The role ensures RPAS capability is available, fit-for-purpose, and aligned with DFES operational, safety, and emergency management requirements. The position develops and maintains effective strategic networks and professional relationships to deliver safe and effective RPAS operations, including facilitating and managing change related to the delivery of the RPAS capability. The CRP identifies opportunities to improve operational service delivery in an all-hazards emergency management environment.

The CRP represents DFES in engagements with Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) related to obligations associated with holding a Remote Operators Certificate (ReOC) and the DFES RPAS Operations Manual, to ensure all pilots and aircraft are compliant.

This position is located in Jandakot and requires regular travel within the metropolitan area and may also involve local, interstate, and national travel or deployment as required.

Leadership Behaviours are applicable to this role, and you are expected to demonstrate the relevant behaviours aligned to the context of Leading Others. Additional details on expected behaviours are attached.

Sounds like you and want to know more? Then download the attached Job Description Form (JDF) or contact Ray Buchan, Superintendent Aviation Services, on (08) 6193 1117 or by email ray.buchan@dfes.wa.gov.au

Employment Conditions and Additional Information

DFES is an emergency services organisation, and all employees may be required to work or travel outside of normal business hours to assist with emergencies and additional allowances may apply.

Employees in this position will be required to participate in an on-call roster.

Employees in this position will be required to attend emergency incidents.

Employees in this position will be required to undertake regular intrastate travel (by air and/or road) and occasionally be required to undertake interstate travel.

Employees in this position will be subject to Civil Aviation Safety Regulation, Part 99, employment conditions for performing Safety-Sensitive Aviation Activities (SSAAs) and compliance with Drug and Alcohol Management Plans.

Employees in this position are required to satisfy CASA Chief Remote Pilot assessment requirements.

If you don’t want to miss out on this great opportunity, Apply Now!

All applications must be submitted online; simply click 'Apply for Job', located at either the top or bottom of this screen and follow the instructions.

To apply for this position, please submit the following: 

1. A maximum two (2) page statement addressing essential criteria contained in the attached job description form and in the context of the position responsibilities.
2. A current comprehensive CV that clearly demonstrates your relevant competencies and experiences, including the names of two referees who can attest to your suitability for this role.

To assist with your application and provide more detail about the application process, please click the attached Applicant Information Pack.

Please do not send your application to Superintendent Ray Buchan or seek their assistance with lodging your application.

If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application and throughout the recruitment process. All information provided is private and confidential and will only be used to provide reasonable adjustments. Please contact us at jobs@dfes.wa.gov.au.

Please Note:

• The attached Job Description Form is currently in draft and is subject to finalisation. Applicants can refer to this version when preparing their application. The approved JDF will be provided to shortlisted applicants.
• Referees may be contacted at any stage during the process.
• Ensure you have saved your documents in MS Word (.docx files only) or PDF format and have allowed plenty of time to submit your application online before 4:00 pm (WST).
• Any late, emailed or proforma applications submitted will be rejected.
• An executive search may be undertaken as part of the recruitment to this role.

Benefits of Working With DFES

As well as a great salary and being a part of something rewarding with key networking opportunities, our employees also enjoy an amazing range of benefits which may include:

• Opportunities to assist during statewide emergency incidents.
• Great work/life balance through flexible working and leave arrangements.
• Long service leave after 7 years.
• Paid parental leave as well as other attractive leave options.
• Access to salary packaging options.
• Professional Career Development Opportunities.

Eligibility To Apply

You must be an Australian Citizen or hold permanent residency to be considered for permanent appointments or hold a working visa covering the term of the contract (proof must be provided with your application) to be eligible for this position.

National Police Certificate

A condition of employment for new employees of DFES is that a current National Police Certificate (less than 3 months old) is provided prior to commencement.  

Choice of Super

The Fire and Emergency Services (Superannuation Fund) Regulations 1986 prevent DFES from offering choice of super for permanent appointments. Those appointed permanently only have the following two options:

• Remain with their existing GESB Superannuation account; or
• Join the Fire and Emergency Services Superannuation Fund (Click here for more information).

Those appointed on a fixed-term contract do have a choice of super; however, if converted to permanent, employees will need to choose one of the two options listed above.

DFES Supports Diversity and Inclusion

DFES supports inclusion and diversity and advocates the value of inclusiveness where all DFES personnel are encouraged to contribute fully and are recognised and valued for their differences in an environment that is free from discrimination and the negative effects of bias, both conscious and unconscious.

People from culturally diverse backgrounds, Aboriginal Australians and people with a disability are encouraged to apply. DFES may prioritise recruitment decisions in accordance with the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (WA).