Manager, Operational Infrastructure and Assets

Why this role matters

When bushfires and emergencies occur, communities depend on responders who are prepared, capable and ready to act.

Those responders depend on infrastructure, equipment and systems that work when they are needed most.

That readiness doesn't happen by accident.

It takes good people, thoughtful investment, sound judgement and a willingness to keep asking how we can do things better.

That's why this role exists.

How we work

We're looking for an experienced and values-driven leader who is curious, collaborative and comfortable working through complexity.

You'll join a team where trust is cultivated, curiosity is encouraged and people are supported to exercise judgement and take ownership.

We start with the why. We assume positive intent. We value informed opinion. We practice happiness as a skill. We choose progress over perfection.

Because how we work together matters just as much as what we deliver.

What you'll do

You'll lead a small team responsible for some of the critical assets that underpin bushfire and emergency management, from fleet, plant and operational equipment through to fire towers, communications infrastructure and incident control facilities.

But this role is about more than managing assets.

It's about asking what we will need next.

You'll work with people across the region and beyond to solve problems, influence investment decisions and help shape operational capability for a changing future.

Specialist/Technical Expertise/Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in operational asset, fleet, infrastructure, facilities, maintenance, contractor or service delivery environments is desirable. This may include experience in one or more of the following areas: fleet or mechanical services, building and building maintenance, radio communications infrastructure, fire towers, airbases, emergency management assets, asset management systems, procurement support, contractor management, project delivery or infrastructure maintenance.
• Demonstrated ability to apply, or quickly develop and apply, commercial and technical understanding of asset and infrastructure services to support sound scoping, procurement advice, contractor oversight, cost control, assurance and value-for-money outcomes is required.

This is an ongoing position. The work location for this position is flexible within Barwon Southwest Region with hybrid work arrangements available.

To be considered for this position, applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter (no longer than 2 pages) summarising their skills and relevant experience.

Please refer to the Key Selection Criteria provided in the Position Description, including the mandatory requirements.

How to Apply:

If you are a current DEECA employee, please apply via DEECA Careers.

Click the ‘Apply’ button and you'll be redirected to a new platform and create an account.

Applications close 11.59pm on Thursday, 5 November 2026.

All applications must be submitted through the online portal. We are unable to consider email or manual applications at this time.

Other relevant information:

Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check.

To be eligible for appointment to this role, applicants will possess corresponding work rights for the advertised employment period. Appointment to an ongoing position is only available to an Australian/New Zealand citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident.

An inclusive, culturally safe and flexible workplace

DEECA fosters an inclusive workplace culture and is committed to a fair, accessible, and equitable recruitment process.

We strongly encourage Aboriginal and or Torres Strait Islander people to apply. We recognise the strengths, knowledge and perspectives First Nations people bring and DEECA is committed to a culturally safe and respectful workplace. If you need support to participate, please contact aboriginal.employment@deeca.vic.gov.au.

We support flexible working arrangements, including hybrid work, varied hours, part-time work and job sharing. For more information about our recruitment processes, visit applying for a role with us.