Forestry Firefighter

Forestry Corporation of NSW

Seasonal Forestry Firefighter

6-Month Contract | Forestry Corporation of NSW

Do you love working outdoors? Are you looking for meaningful, hands-on work that makes a real difference to NSW communities and landscapes? Join our dedicated team and play a vital role in protecting the state's forests during the statutory Bush Fire Danger Period.

What We Can Offer You

Annual Base Salary: $64,884 base salary + weekend penalty rates, public holiday loadings, and firefighting allowances

  • Intensive firefighting training with a nationally recognised qualification
  • Training in 4WD driver safety, herbicide application, and chainsaw operation
  • Exposure to a wide variety of outdoor tasks across NSW forests
  • A supportive team environment with a genuine focus on your development

Locations

  • Coffs Harbour
  • Dorrigo

About the Role

As a Seasonal Forestry Firefighter, you are an essential part of our fire readiness strategy. Day-to-day tasks will vary depending on bushfire conditions. At times when firefighting is not required, you will contribute to a broad range of forest management and maintenance activities. When fire danger is elevated, you will be rostered for on-call duties and may be required to work extended hours or shifts under demanding physical conditions and be ready to deploy to other regional locations for firefighting operations.

Your activities will include

  • Bushfire control and hazard reduction burning
  • Weed, pest animal control and environmental maintenance
  • Road and fire trail maintenance
  • Building, facilities, vehicle, and equipment upkeep
  • Supporting other operational functions

Essential Skills and Experience

  • Demonstrated experience in forestry, farming, outdoor, or construction work
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a diverse team and meet required standards
  • A positive, can-do attitude and commitment to safety and teamwork
  • Able to follow instructions as directed
  • A valid driver's licence (P1 provisional or higher)

Highly Regarded (Not Essential)

  • Truck licence (MR, HR, HC)
  • Experience with heavy plant operation or chainsaws
  • Prior bushfire fighting experience
  • Relevant competencies: First Aid, chemical handling, 4WD/off-road driving
  • Studies or qualifications in Forestry, Environmental Science or Natural Sciences

Pre-Employment Requirements

Successful candidates will be required to complete the following prior to commencement:

  • Drug and Alcohol Screening
  • Medical Assessment
  • Fire fitness Task-Based Assessment (TBA)

Candidates must be fit to perform firefighting duties, which can involve working in smoky conditions and on uneven or steep terrain. Employment offers are subject to meeting the physical requirements of the role in line with AFAC (Australasian Fire and Emergency Services Authorities Council) guidelines. If you have questions about the medical requirements, please contact us before applying.

How to Apply

Please submit your application via our online system, including your resume.

For a copy of the Position Description, please paste the url into your browser: https://www.forestrycorporation.com.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0010/1668979/Seasonal-Forestry-Firefighter-Position-Description.pdf

For further information about the role, please contact:

Tom Newby, Fire & Operations Team Leader on: 0429 915 441

Applications close: Sunday 14 June 2026 @ 11:59PM AEST

For assistance with submitting your application, text our Talent & Organisational Development team on 0417 927 155.

At FCNSW, we care for country, community, and each other. Everyone home, injury free, every day.

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