The role involves leading and delivering complex engineering work within Defence, coordinating projects from concept to execution, and guiding a team to improve capability. On a day-to-day basis you’ll plan work, manage performance, oversee contracts and procurement, liaise with internal and external stakeholders, and ensure delivery on time and within budget.
| Job Title | Engineering Professional Manager |
| Vacancy Number | VN-0768216 |
| Position Number | CASG/01699/26 |
| Classification | Executive Level 1 |
| Salary | $124,393 – $140,315 |
| Job Type | Full-Time, Ongoing |
| Primary Locations | Melbourne VIC |
| Future Merit Locations | Melbourne |
| Office Arrangement | Flexible |
| Office Arrangement Details | Defence is committed to supporting workplace flexibility. Please contact the contact officer for further details. |
| Closing Date | Sunday 12 April 2026 |
| Agency Website | https://defencecareers.nga.net.au/?jati=ED6D17E1-C274-D38E-28F5-ECC2818D3429 |
Narrative
About the Opportunity: This Engineering Professional Manager role sits in a high‑impact environment within the Land Command, Control, Communications & Computer Systems branch. You’ll lead complex projects, navigate a dense regulatory landscape, and shape engineering outcomes that support Army and Joint Force operations. It’s a chance to influence across teams, vendors and government bodies, delivering capabilities that matter to national security.
About the Opportunity: The team values collaborative leadership, rigorous risk management, and a clear, practical approach to problem solving. If you’re motivated by delivering endorsed capabilities on time and within budget, and you want to develop your leadership capabilities in a dynamic public service setting, this is a strong fit. Defence supports professional development, flexible working arrangements and meaningful work that contributes to Australia’s safety and security.
Duties (What You Will Do)
| Lead and manage delivery of complex projects | Scope, plan, monitor progress, manage risks and steer delivery within time and budget. |
| Develop and implement work plans | Set performance indicators and review team performance; identify capability improvements. |
| Align work with strategic objectives | Communicate expected outcomes and ensure delivery against Defence policy requirements. |
| Stakeholder and supplier management | Develop productive relationships with internal/external stakeholders and contractors. |
| Contract management and procurement | Lead procurement activities, ensuring compliance with policies and procedures. |
| Leadership and team development | Foster capability, continuous improvement and a high‑performing team culture. |
| Risk and issues management | Identify, assess and mitigate risks with a focus on safety and security outcomes. |
About You (Eligibility)
- A Bachelor of Engineering from an Australian institution (or recognised equivalent under the Washington Accord).
- Security clearance ability: must be able to obtain and maintain Negative Vetting Level 1.
- Demonstrated success in engineering delivery and coordinating multiple activities.
- Strategic thinker with the ability to develop plans and practical solutions.
- Strong leadership, communication, collaboration and adaptability skills.
- Proven ability to deliver capabilities on time, to budget, and within scope.
- High-level organisational skills, initiative and the ability to influence others.
Important Information for Applicants
If you are considering opportunities like this, note that jobs in australia for foreigners is a keyword raised in some discussions about eligibility. This vacancy outlines the standard APS requirements, including citizenship and security clearance considerations. It’s important to check citizenship requirements and visa eligibility with the agency before applying. The posting specifies a Negative Vetting Level 1 security clearance; typical APS roles assume Australian citizenship or eligibility for clearance, and there may be constraints on visa holders for security-sensitive positions.
Additional Information
Diversity & Inclusion: The Department of Defence values a diverse workforce and inclusive culture. RecruitAbility: This vacancy participates in the RecruitAbility program; applicants may benefit from additional assessment pathways if you declare a disability and meet minimum requirements. Future Merit Pools: Suitable applicants may be considered for similar roles in future vacancies within Defence.
How to Apply
| Contact Officer | Chris Phoumsavanh, 03 9200 0878 |
| Candidate Kit | Candidate Kit |
| Application Portal | Apply online |