Field Officer - Pool (Parks and Reserves)

About the role

The Department for Environment and Water is recruiting Field Officers for its merit pool, based in Naracoorte but open to everyone. Positions may also be available in Mt Gambier and Noonameena. The role is a hands-on outdoor job caring for parks and reserves, with work in conservation, land management and fire activities. It suits someone who enjoys teamwork, adapts to changing priorities and wants to contribute directly to protecting the natural environment.

Key responsibilities

• Contribute to works programs, projects and activities that manage parks and reserves effectively.
• Maintain tracks and visitor facilities, control weeds, operate plant and equipment and support fire and emergency response.
• Work with volunteers, contractors, neighbours and Aboriginal communities.
• Follow procedures and document completed work tasks.

Required profile

• Australian citizen, permanent resident or holder of a valid working visa.
• Current class C (minimum P2) driver's licence and willingness to operate a 4WD safely.
• Sound knowledge of plant, vehicle and machinery operation and maintenance, and of general construction and maintenance of visitor facilities.
• Understanding of native vegetation, land management, herbicide application, revegetation and weed control.
• Ability to meet and maintain the minimum fitness standard (Rating B) for a Fire Fighting role, including annual fitness assessments.
• Willingness to work on a roster including on-call and standby, and to work weekends, public holidays and high fire-danger days.
• Nationally coordinated criminal history check, renewed every three years; applicants must supply a check issued within the last 12 months.

Required skills

• Use of information technology tools and packages.
• Clear communication with internal and external customers and staff.
• Ability to follow procedures and allocate time to complete the workload.

What we offer

• Salary range of $66,441 to $69,504 per year (OPS2).
• Free entry to DEW-managed parks in South Australia.
• Salary sacrifice benefits, Employee Assistance Program and Fitness Passport Program.
• Opportunity to discuss flexible working arrangements, including part-time.

Applications close 29 April 2027 and are made online through the state government portal, with a pre-employment declaration, CV and a three-page letter of application.