Deputy Commissioner Operations – Lead the Future of Emergency Services in WA
This position is being offered on a five (5) year contractual basis. Options for renewal exist, subject to satisfactory performance.
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 performs a critical role coordinating emergency services for a range of natural disasters and emergency incidents threatening 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 Deputy Commissioner Operations is a member of the Corporate Executive and actively contributes to the strategic direction and management of the Department of Fire and Emergency Services, while also leading the delivery of exceptional frontline emergency services across the state of Western Australia.
This is a rare leadership opportunity to influence major operational outcomes and to shape the future of emergency services, making a profound impact on the safety, resilience, and wellbeing of Western Australians.
In this high‑profile role, you will provide strategic leadership across four critical operational pillars:
- Metropolitan Operations – ensuring world‑class emergency response capability for Perth and surrounding regions.
- Country and Aviation Operations – leading diverse, large‑scale operational services across regional and remote Western Australia.
- State Operations – responsible for the delivery of operational services across Western Australia.
- Future Capability - leading the development and implementation of strategic initiatives that enhance the future capabilities of DFES.
As Deputy Commissioner Operations, you will champion excellence by directing and empowering your Command to deliver proactive, solution‑focused, and high‑quality services. You will work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, partners, and stakeholders to strengthen capability, drive continuous improvement, and ensure the Department is future‑ready.
If you are a visionary leader with a passion for public service, a commitment to community safety, and the ability to inspire operational excellence across complex environments, this is your opportunity to make a significant statewide impact.
Leadership Behaviours are applicable to this role, and you are expected to demonstrate the relevant behaviours aligned to the context of Executive Leader. Additional details on expected behaviours are attached.
If you are interested in the role then download the attached Job Description Form (JDF) or contact Commissioner Darren Klemm AFSM on (08) 9395 9501 or by email commissioner.office@dfes.wa.gov.au.
For general enquiries related to the application process or rank equivalency please contact Mr Conrad Dalais, Assistant Director Human Resource Business Partnering on (08) 9395 9856 or via email conrad.dalais@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.
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:
- A cover letter no more than three (3) pages, describing how your skills and experience meet the job requirements.
- A comprehensive CV no more than eight (8) pages, outlining your experience as relevant to this role; and
- The names of two (2) referees who can attest to your suitability for this role.
To assist with your application and provide you with more detail about the application process, please click on the attached Applicant Information Pack.
Please do not send your application to Commissioner Klemm 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:
- All Essential Criteria listed in the Job Description Form will be assessed during recruitment and selection process.
- 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 4:00pm (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.
Integrity and Honesty
Integrity and honesty are key requirements of this role. Applicants are advised that:
- Selection panels may contact non-nominated referees to facilitate subsequent verifications during the selection phase.
- Applicants are required to give permission to selection panels to contact past employers for background and integrity checks to facilitate subsequent verifications during the selection phase.
- DFES will test and validate claims about integrity and honesty by undertaking referee checking with past supervisors that includes questions relating to integrity.
- Qualifications, membership and associations will be verified with the relevant university or organisation.
Please ensure you complete, sign and scan the Authorisation to Conduct Background Check Form (refer attached) and submit it along with your application.
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:
- Free 24/7 access to an on-site gym.
- 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, prevents 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 choice of super, however if converted to permanent, employees will need to choose one on 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 based on the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (WA).
