Physical Surveillance Operative

Job Req ID

ABF - 136750

Location

NSW; QLD; VIC; WA 

 Employment Type

Ongoing (Permanent), Full-time 

Classification

APS Level 6 - $94,563.00 and $107,713.00 plus 15.4% super (part time pro-rata)

Contact Officer

Bill Robson at nationaltacticaloperations@abf.gov.au  

Office Arrangements

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

Applications close on 27/03/2025 at 11:59pm AEDT (midnight) - Late applications will not be accepted.

About our opportunity

This process is being used to fill 4 immediate position/s. 

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 NSW; QLD; VIC; WA.
 

About our team

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

The National Surveillance Unit (NSU) provides the ABF and partner agencies with high quality physical and optical covert and discrete surveillance support to operations. Surveillance operations involves systematic stationary or mobile observations of persons, vehicles, vessels, places or objects of interest using specialist surveillance methodologies and tools. The NSU work closely with ABF line areas and law enforcement partners to safely observe and relay information and evidence in support of safeguarding Australia's national security and prosecution of offenders.

Position Summary

Physical Surveillance Operatives (PSO or Operative) in the Surveillance team perform surveillance tasking's in a variety of environments. The job requirements are demanding and operatives are required to be flexible, innovative, self-motivated, and committed.

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. Our everyday work occurs amongst a broad cross section of the community, meaning our workforce should complement this.
 

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

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 including external Law Enforcement Agencies
• Excellent time management - the ability to manage competing priorities in a high-tempo environment and perform well under pressure
• Flexible and Adaptable - willingness to work on call and travel at short notice, adapting to changing operational needs while providing consistent support
• Operational Experience - background in active surveillance operations, with hands-on experience in both security and investigative roles
• Effective Report Writing - experience crafting detailed surveillance reports, translating observations into actionable intelligence for team and management review.

Duties and responsibilities

Under the direction of a Team Leader (EL1 Inspector), Surveillance Operatives carry out covert surveillance in support of operations by:

• Foot and vehicle surveillance
• Operate specialised electronic equipment including monitor and record product from electronic devices
• Capture, record and manage images and associated surveillance product
• Compile accurate and comprehensive accounts of surveillance activities
• Prepare evidentiary statements, attend legal proceedings and give evidence as required
• Participate in briefings and debriefs, offering and receiving constructive feedback
• Travel nationwide to assist in the deployment of discreet technical assets and/or undergo training with partner agencies.

Hours of Work

PSO's work irregular and extended hours, which includes on-call duty, and must be able to respond with physical presence within a reasonable timeframe. This includes the ability to deploy nationally at short notice. There are specific working conditions in relation to undertaking the role as a surveillance operative.

Operatives work a flexible pattern of up to 184 hours in a designated four-week period. PSO's will not be required to work in excess of the following:

• 16 hours within a 24 hour period
• 64 hours within a 7 day period

Work Environment

Operatives deploy in all weather conditions (deemed safe to operate in by the NSU Team Leader (Inspector) and are exposed to the elements for long periods of time. They can at times, have limited, to no, access to necessities such as bathroom facilities. Operatives are exposed to high temperatures (such as the inside of a vehicle that is in the full sun in the middle of summer, or in the shade in the middle of winter, for hours without the ability to utilise air conditioning) and are required to maintain awareness throughout their deployment.

Remuneration

A composite allowance will be paid to the Surveillance Operatives upon meeting specified requirements. This allowance is paid in recognition of the special duties, unique flexibilities and difficult conditions encountered by operatives. Additional annual leave for Sunday duty: Physical Surveillance Operatives will receive an extra one-tenth of a working week for each Sunday worked, up to a maximum of one week's extra leave.

Additional information

Further role requirements are:

• 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.

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
• Recognised Surveillance training course by a State or Commonwealth agency
• Certified 'surveillance' (or equivalent) driving course recognised by ABF
• ABF Use of Force qualifications including First Aid
• Surveillance psychometric assessments.

Highly Desirable

• 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
• Understanding and knowledge of policies, principles and procedures connected with Investigations into migration, citizenship and customs (trade & goods) offences
• Ability to work independently and in a small team environment to achieve operational goals
• Exceptional communication skills, articulating messages with accuracy using radio communications systems whilst performing other tasks such as taking imagery.

How to apply

Submit your application and CV through the Home Affairs’ recruitment system (ourPeople) before the closing date on 27/03/2025 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 – 136750 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.