Senior Border Force Officer - Technical Surveillance Operative

Job Req ID

ABF - 140344

Location

WA

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

Katey Kelly at nationaltacticaloperations@abf.gov.au

Office Arrangements

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

Applications close on 4 / 12 / 2025 at 11 : 59pm AEDT (midnight) - Late applications will not be accepted.

About our opportunity

This process is being used to fill 5 immediate position / s in WA.

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 WA; ACT; NSW; NT; QLD; SA; TAS; VIC.

About our team

Strategy & Capability | ABF Operational Capability | Tactical Support To Operations | National Tactical Operations

The Technical Surveillance Unit (TSU) delivers specialist technical solutions to enhance ABF surveillance operations. This includes the design, deployment and management of sensitive surveillance methodologies, technologies and tools. Technical Surveillance Operatives utilise advanced platforms including optical, audio and RPAS-based systems to discreetly collect intelligence. TSU also provides technical support to physical surveillance operatives and ensures that technical capabilities remain contemporary, risk-assessed and compliant with legislative frameworks.

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

Our ideal candidate

• 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.

Duties and responsibilities

Under the direction of the TSU Supervisor, the Technical Surveillance Operatives will support operations by :

Additional information

These positions serve as an excellent stepping stone for anyone aspiring to enter the ABF 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. We encourage anyone who resides outside WA to apply if they are willing to relocate. Please note that in these circumstances, the candidate will need to be prepared to relocate at their own expense.

Role Requirements

The successful candidate will hold (or ability to obtain) the following :

How to apply

Submit your application and CV through the Home Affairs’ recruitment system (ourPeople) before the closing date on 4 / 12 / 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 :

Applicant response documents must be a minimum 11pt font in MSWord or PDF format, include your full name and the Requisition Number – 140344 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 :

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

Internal applicants with technical enquiries can :

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 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.