Being a surveillance officer is both a profession and a lifestyle commitment. Surveillance officers are highly competent specialists who adapt to their surroundings to covertly achieve their task. They operate as part of a cohesive operational team within a high-tempo and challenging security environment, following targets both on foot and with a range of supporting vehicles. Surveillance officers achieve results using specialist equipment designed to meet the challenges of the covert operating environment, including high-tech photographic, technical and IT systems. They play a critical role in helping ASIO identify, investigate and provide advice on threats to security. 

ASIO is looking for a diverse range of individuals who can blend into a variety of operating environments, reflecting the broad social and cultural diversity of the Australian population.

Surveillance officers undertake shift work and operate for extended periods both indoors and outdoors. 

Learn about what it's like to work at ASIO from real officers who make a real difference. Hear about their varied career paths, experiences and characteristics in our Why I Spy series.

 

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At a glance

You will be willing to relocate to Sydney for the 6-month training program consisting of live-in and on-the-job training. Relocation assistance is provided to successful candidates.

Successful applicants undertaking physical surveillance duties will also be eligible for an additional allowance of their annual base salary (composite payment).

You will be expected to:  

  • Maintain operational security. You will not be able to discuss your everyday work with others.
  • Sustain vigilant observation during periods of heightened activity and during periods of extended inactivity.
  • Respond to operational tasking at very short notice, which may include the necessity to work extended periods and to travel interstate at short notice.
  • Be capable of spending extended periods (~ 8 hour shift) within a static vehicle, in various weather conditions.
  • Maintain your health and fitness to a standard that ensures you can operate ‘on foot’ (walking, running and standing) for extended periods, in various weather conditions. 

Eligibility 

We are seeking surveillance officers who display the following attributes:

  • Have a high level of situational awareness and invidual resiliance.
  • Are highly adaptive and can confidently operate within an environment of uncertainty.
  • Have a particularly strong attention to detail.
  • The ability to work collaboratively in dynamic teams.
  • Can confidently make a decision, given limited time for deliberation.
  • Personal qualities that exemplify ASIO's values and expected behaviours.

In addition, you must also:

  • Hold a current Class C driver's licence, open and unrestricted, and be eligible to qualify for a driver’s licence in any state or territory in Australia.
  • Have normal colour perception that enables clear delineation between red and green and no issues with night blindness.
  • Meet fundamental physical and psychological capabilities in order to undertake the surveillance officer role safely and effectively. These include:
    • The ability to maintain high levels of attention, concentration and memory when under pressure.
    • Effectively communicate verbally with a wide variety of persons.
    • Walk without significant discomfort for several kilometres.
    • Drive a motor vehicle confidently and competently for extended periods of time in various traffic environments.
    • Sit without significant discomfort for extended periods of time in various environments, including public locations.
    • Ability to carry a 12kg backpack.

To find out when recruitment is open, visit our current vacancies page or follow us on Instagram.

You can also find out more about working at ASIO through stories of real ASIO officers.

Frequently asked questions
What if I’m not an Australian Citizen?

To be eligible you must be an Australian citizen. If you are a dual citizen you are eligible.

What are you looking for in an ideal candidate?

There is no one ideal candidate. We are seeking those that want to make a difference at ASIO, and are naturally curious, enjoy variety and are adaptable. The sort of qualities we are looking for include patience, resilience and sound judgement.

Do I need a degree?

No. ASIO is looking for clever, curious people who can think outside the box. We know that people from different backgrounds with varied life experience can bring great value to our work with the Australian community. We are committed to reflecting the community we protect.

Is the surveillance officer training program just for those under a certain age limit?

No. We welcome applications from eligible applicants from a range of ages, with various work/life experiences relating to the job specific capabilities. We value life and practical skills and experience as highly as formal qualifications.

Do I need military/police/intelligence experience?

No. There is no ASIO ‘type’. People of all types can, and do, work at ASIO. We will train you to become an ASIO surveillance officer. You just need the right attitude and aptitude to do our work.

Can I tell people where I work?

You should not discuss your application with others. And once you work here, you’ll be required to be discreet throughout your career. It can be challenging at first but it’s something you get used to. We will provide you with support to discuss your employment with your family.

How do I get through the security clearance process?

The most important thing about completing our security clearance process is honesty. We understand that people have led full and interesting lives, and being honest about that is the best approach to take. This enables us to make a risk-based decision on your suitability to work in a Top Secret environment.

Do I need to have, or be in the process of obtaining, a security clearance in order to apply?

No. We will coordinate all security vetting arrangements (at the appropriate time). Find out more about the security clearance process.