Planning and Research Officer, Clerk Grade 5/6

Planning & Research Officer, Clerk Grade 5/6, Tamworth

• Bring your research and analytical skills to a role that makes a difference to regional NSW.
• Join a team dedicated to researching, analysing, providing advice and developing systems and processes across emergency risk management and planning fields.
• Work in a volunteer-based agency supporting communities across NSW.
• Full time ongoing role, with flexible working conditions
• Location: Based in the thriving regional city of Tamworth, NSW.

About the opportunity

We are interested in hearing from people who have skills in research or risk assessment, to support the development and communication of advice, plans and systems to address risk management, as well as strategies in planning for emergencies. This role would suit someone who is a strong communicator and has research/analytical skills, including graduates or professionals who have worked in a flood research, emergency risk analysis and/or policy role.

It is an exciting time to join the NSW SES in supporting key programs of work to enhance the agency's capability and response to emergencies.

About the NSW SES

Our Mission: NSW SES saving lives and creating safer communities.

Our Vision: A trusted volunteer-based emergency service, working together to deliver excellence in community preparedness and emergency response.

The NSW SES serves the community as the lead agency for Floods, Storms and Tsunamis. We are recognised as the most versatile and widely used emergency service organisation in NSW. Our volunteers are highly skilled, experienced, and well- trained in the wide variety of roles they perform.

With over 10,000 volunteers we are committed to protecting and supporting the diverse communities of NSW. Learn more here.

About you

To be successful in this role you will:

• Skills in researching, analysing and communicating information to form evidence-based advice.
• Strong attention to detail with well-developed skills in critical thinking and analytics.
• A desire to become a true specialist in emergency risk management and/or planning.
• The skills to work in a cohesive and collaborative team environment and contribute to the development of initiatives to resolve issues and promote effective solutions.
• Experience or the ability to learn technology-based systems, such as GIS systems and Power BI.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal and well-developed interpersonal skills.

What we can offer you

• You will enjoy a 35-hour work week, with the potential for flexible work arrangements such as a nine-day fortnight or a four-day work week depending on the requirements of the role and operational needs.
• You can enjoy a hybrid work environment, time in the office and time working from home.
• Attractive salary range of $99,938 to $110,271 plus 12% superannuation and leave loading.
• Our work is meaningful and rewarding. The SES's mission is saving lives and creating safer communities and you can be an important part of our work.
• We have attractive leave entitlements including parental, sick, flex and recreation leave.
• We care about our people. We have Mental Health & Wellbeing programs and services to support our people and operational and leadership training and development opportunities to develop our people. Some of these include:
• Fitness Passport
• LinkedIn Learning
• Member Assist Program for free confidential counselling support
• Flu vaccine program.

You Belong Here

• We care about people as individuals and are committed to diversity, inclusion, and new ways of working. We encourage applications from people of any age, gender, ethnicity, cultural background, faith, disability, sexual orientation or gender identity.
• We want our people to reflect the diverse community we serve and are committed to creating an inclusive and flexible workplace. We want to know what this looks like for you so we can support your success at work.
• If you require reasonable adjustments, we are committed to supporting you throughout the recruitment processes and in the workplace, If you feel you may require an adjustment during the recruitment process, please contact for confidential advice on options.

How to apply

Your application should include as separate attachments:

• A cover letter (maximum of one page) briefly responding to the essential requirements and your interest in the role;
• Responses to each of the targeted questions (maximum of one page per answer); and
• An up-to-date resume of 2-3 pages detailing your skills and experience relevant to the role.

Targeted Questions

1. How your experience and skill in research and analytics would contribute to the NSW SES mission.

2. An example of when you have used these skills to develop a business plan and/or policy and how did you communicate this to the intended audience.

Want to know more?

If you want to know more about this opportunity, please contact Phil Petersen at

The role description is available here.

Talent Pool

A recruitment pool may be created for ongoing and temporary roles of the same role or role type that may become available for filling over the next 18 months. Further information here.

Applications close: Tuesday 27 January 2026, at 11:59pm.