Forest Fire Management Victoria is now recruiting for project firefighters (PFF) in the Yarra Ranges.
Deputy chief fire officer Shannon Devenish said firefighters would play an important role in keeping their communities safe this upcoming bushfire season.
“Now more than ever, people understand how vital our project firefighters are in protecting their communities and the environment,” she said.
“We’re looking for people of all walks of life and backgrounds to join Forest Fire Management Victoria over the summer season, to help us with bushfire prevention and suppression in Melbourne’s parks and forests.
There are numerous positions available for general firefighters and fire support officers.
Positions have also been identified for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People.
“Project firefighters are on the frontline fighting bushfires, conducting planned burns, managing roadside vegetation, maintaining access to fire trails and roads and supporting other emergency work,” Ms Devenish said.
“No two days are the same, and this is a great opportunity to learn new skills and be part of a diverse and inclusive team that helps protect the Melbourne community.
“Successful recruits receive comprehensive training and get the opportunity to work with experienced personnel from a range of fire management agencies. Many past PFFs have gone on to rewarding careers in permanent roles within the department.”
Project firefighters are based at more than 80 locations throughout the state, adding to the existing workforce of 300 firefighters currently on three-year contracts.
Once recruitment is complete, Forest Fire Management Victoria will have more than 1,000 frontline forest firefighters trained and ready for this coming season.
Crews will be supported by staff from the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP), Parks Victoria, Melbourne Water and VicForests who have a fire role in addition to their normal duties.
“These roles will help deliver our Safer Together program and ensure we work with regional communities to deliver the best outcomes for the community,” Ms Devenish said.
Employment is full-time for a period of up to 26 weeks, generally running between November and April.
Applications for project firefighters are open from Friday 31 July and close on Sunday 23 August.
For further information and to apply visit www.ffm.vic.gov.au or call 136 186.
