Address- Full Time
- 2 year, fixed term contract
Who we are
The Indigenous Desert Alliance (IDA) is an Indigenous-led, member-based organisation that plays a vital role in keeping the desert connected and strengthening desert ranger programs. The IDA works with its members and partners to ensure that Indigenous rangers are enabled to collaboratively manage the Australian desert and empowered to realise their aspirations for community, culture, and Country.
We work with over 65 ranger groups from across the desert to support in our role ‘Keeping the Desert Connected’ to empower a united voice for the desert.
The Role
The Fire Officer will be responsible for delivering fire management strategies and operations to the highest and safest standards, with a deliberate focus on outcomes. The role will have a specific focus on working closely with Traditional Owners and Indigenous rangers, particularly women, in the desert.
Working closely with the Desert Projects Operations Manager, the Fire Officer will:
- Support the regional fire management project activity for fire projects managed by the IDA
- Participate in planning and regional consultations with partners, Traditional Owners and other stakeholders to develop and maintain a regional fire management strategy for the area
- Collate, analyse and interpret remote sensing and GIS data to identify strategic fire management requirements, options and initiatives
- Assist with the addressing of capacity gaps of partners and Indigenous land management organisations to undertake fire management work
- Assist with capacity building of Indigenous people and organisations at a local and regional level by promoting the sharing of knowledge and resources and liaising effectively with stakeholder agencies
- Coordinate the safe, effective and efficient delivery of fire management activities by contractors or employees across the project area
- Assist in the development of resources, deliver presentations and represent the project at meetings and regional forums as required
- Support mechanisms to develop fire management skills, experience and capacity among traditional owners and Indigenous ranger groups
The position requires a strong commitment to working collaboratively with Indigenous people and community-based organisations.
About you
To be successful in this role you will:
- have a strong understanding and respect for Indigenous people, culture and commitment to looking after country
- have relevant tertiary qualifications in Indigenous conservation and land management sector, community development or proven success in relevant projects
- proven success building strong relationships and working effectively with Traditional Owners and Indigenous rangers, in particular women, in the desert
- some experience or a keen interest in implementing cultural and conservation burning programs
- have high level project management skills, with a solutions-focussed outlook
- be an excellent communicator
- a good understanding of in-depth Indigenous land management knowledge and remote Indigenous social, cultural and economic context
- be a highly organised and self-reliant
- be willing and able to undertake extensive remote field work in the desert and spend extended periods of time in remote communities
What we offer
- Join a successful national for purpose organisation that is having a significant positive impact across the desert of Australia
- An unique and rewarding opportunity to work with Aboriginal communities looking after their Country
- Competitive remuneration package and excellent conditions (with salary packaging available)
- A dynamic and collaborative work environment with dedicated, passionate, and professional team members
- Additional paid leave during Christmas/New Year shut down period
- Employee Assistance Program for your personal well-being
