Technical Surveillance Unit Officer

Job Req ID

ABF - 136755

Location

ACT; NSW; QLD; VIC 

 Employment Type

Ongoing (Permanent), Full-time 

Classification

APS Level 5 - $84,228.00 and $91,809.00 plus 15.4% super (part time pro-rata)

Contact Officer

Heidi Rainbow - nationaltacticaloperations@abf.gov.au  

Office Arrangements

Flexible; Onsite  - Flexible working arrangements can be negotiated in accordance with our Enterprise Agreement and the operational requirements of the role.
 

Applications close on 17/03/2025 at 11:59pm AEDT (midnight) - Late applications will not be accepted.

*Please note: This job ad will now close on the 17/03/2025

About our opportunity

This process is being used to fill 1 immediate position. 

Applicants suitable for the role but not offered the position for the current vacancy may be placed in a merit list or pool to fill similar vacancies for up to 18 months anywhere in ACT; NSW; NT; QLD; SA; TAS; VIC; WA.
 

About our team

National Operations | Operational Coordination & Planning | Tactical Capability | National Tactical Operations

The Technical Surveillance Unit (TSU) are responsible for the deployment and sustainment of the ABF's optical surveillance capabilities to support operational outcomes. These optical solutions include, but are not limited to, remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) and static deployable cameras (SDC).

Please visit our website for more information about the Department of Home Affairs or Australian Border Force

Our ideal candidate

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills - able to effectively collaborate with team members and stakeholders at various levels of the organisation s at various levels including external Law Enforcement Agencies
• Advanced research skills - ability to acquire new hardware, software, and other technologies to enhance the ABF's technical surveillance capability
• Excellent time management - the ability to manage competing priorities in a high-tempo environment and perform well under pressure
• Adaptable - the ability to remain flexible and adapt to changing surveillance priorities
• Knowledge of and experience with operating technical equipment relevant to surveillance operations.

TSU Officers support the TSU Supervisor in the execution of technical capabilities to enhance team objectives for short term tasks and strategic planning for longer-term initiatives. TSU Officers perform research, development and maintenance of electronic surveillance equipment and provide technical assistance during the deployment of capabilities in support of ABF operations. The TSU Officer will consider the ramification of issues and longer-term impact of the work area taking a degree of personal responsibility.

Duties and responsibilities

Under the direction of the TSU Supervisor, the TSU Officers will support operations by:

• Successfully attain and maintain training to operate, deploy and manage technical equipment relevant to Technical Surveillance Operations
• Contribute to the development, implementation and continuous improvement of policy, procedures, and systems relating to technical services, in compliance with the ABF's legal obligations
• Contribute to the strategic outputs of the Branch, including governance reporting
• Provide support to Physical Surveillance Unit teams in the deployment of discreet technical surveillance equipment
• Provide technical advice and guidance to ABF and partner agencies on strategies and opportunities for discreet electronic collection of imagery, information and evidence
• Provide support and build capability in the team to achieve identified priorities.

Role Requirements

• Ability to work on-call, different work time as operationally required, and undertake domestic travel
• Maintain mandatory training requirements and demonstrate physical/mental fitness to perform surveillance duties during extended and/or changeable shifts
• Demonstrate appropriate Work, Health & Safety and Equity & Diversity practices and how these requirements relate to the surveillance work environment.

Hours of Work & Environment / Remuneration

This role may attract overtime opportunities as TSU Officers may be required to:

• Work irregular and sometimes extended hours, which can include on-call duty
• Be called upon to respond with operational support within a reasonable time frame
• Deploy nationally at short notice in support of operations
• Undertake activity in adverse weather conditions (deemed safe) and can be exposed to the elements for periods of time, including be exposed to high and low temperatures.

Additional information

Career Pathway

The NTO is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, where unique perspectives and experiences are celebrated. We believe that a diverse team enhances creativity, fosters innovation, and leads to better decision-making. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, as unique insights can contribute significantly to our mission.

This position serves as an excellent stepping stone for anyone aspiring to enter the operative environment. With opportunities for professional development, hands-on experience, and exposure to advanced techniques, you will gain valuable skills that can propel your career forward.

Mandatory Qualifications

Hold, or ability to obtain the following:

• Australian Government Negative Vetting Level 1 clearance.
• Employment Suitability Clearance (ESC).
• Valid State/Territory Drivers licence with no restrictions.
• ABF Use of Force qualifications including First Aid.
• Discreet deployment qualifications in line with the ABF College.
• Remote Pilot's licence.

Highly Desirable

• Experience operating and interrogating technical and electronic equipment including skills in a specialist discipline relevant to Surveillance Operations (IT, Electronics, Communications)
• Knowledge of commercial electronic technologies including wireless communications, computer operating systems, computer hardware and computer networks
• Aptitude and/or practical experience in the provision of surveillance services in support of investigations
• Operational knowledge and understanding of contemporary physical surveillance equipment, methodology, communications and surveillance product management processes
• Knowledge of ABF investigative, enforcement and compliance functions
• Understanding of relevant legislation in connection with surveillance activity.

How to apply

Submit your application and CV through the Home Affairs’ recruitment system (ourPeople) before the closing date on 17/03/2025 at 11:59pm (midnight) AEDT  – Late applications will not be accepted.

As part of your application you will be required to prepare and submit a one-page applicant response document in relation to the advertised role, outlining:

• How your skills, knowledge, and experience will be relevant to this role

• Why you are interested in the role and what you can offer us

• Any specific examples or achievements that demonstrate your ability to perform the role.

Applicant response documents must be a minimum 11pt font in MSWord or PDF format, include your full name and the Requisition Number – 136755 in the document footer.

Prior to preparing your response it is recommended you review the Work Level standards relevant to the classification you are applying to. It may also be useful to refer to the Integrated Leadership Systems information relevant to the classification.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the position you must be an Australian Citizen.

The successful candidate will be required to obtain and maintain a Negative Vetting Level 1 (AGSVA) security clearance, and:
 

• ABF Workers will also be required to obtain and maintain an Employment Suitability Clearance (ESC).
• Home Affairs Workers will also be required to obtain and maintain an Onboarding Check.
   

In certain circumstances, an Employment Suitability Clearance (ESC) may be required in addition to, or in lieu of, an Onboarding Check, which will be determined by the delegate as necessary.  

Diversity and inclusion

The Department is committed to workforce diversity and applicants who are Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, come from a diverse cultural or linguistic background or have a disability are encouraged to apply.

RecruitAbility applies to this vacancy. Under the RecruitAbility scheme you will be invited to participate in further assessment activity for the vacancy if you choose to apply under the scheme; declare you have a disability; and meet the minimum requirements for the job. For more information visit: https://www.apsc.gov.au/recruitability

Technical assistance

For technical enquiries please call or email for assistance:

• Email: recruitment@homeaffairs.gov.au
• Phone: 1300 793 883 (within Australia) or +61 2 6196 0444 (outside of Australia)

Please include any applicable screen captures, a response will be provided during business hours.

Notes

The Department of Home Affairs offers an attractive remuneration package, including salary, superannuation benefits and flexible working conditions appropriate to the level of the position. The Australian Public Service (APS) Employee Value Proposition (EVP) highlights the top reasons our employees enjoy working in the APS.

The Department may provide relocation assistance to eligible APS employees required to relocate. The level of assistance will vary depending on the reason for relocating and your personal circumstances. For further information please enquire with the contact officer listed in the advertisement.

Information about employment and advice on how to apply for vacancies can be obtained from the Department’s website at https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/about-us/careers

Candidates should be aware that in roles where vaccination against COVID-19 is required by public health orders/directions or other legislation proof of vaccination will be required. If a candidate is not fully vaccinated or is unwilling to be vaccinated within a reasonable time period, they may not be offered that role.