At Downer Professional Services (DPS), we are committed to delivering outcomes that put Australia’s interests first. We work on complex and impactful Defence, government, and infrastructure projects that shape the future of our nation. Our people are at the core of our success, bringing expertise, innovation, and leadership to critical Defence programs.
Our Technical, Advisory, and Capability (TAC) practice and Team Downer serves as one of the Major Service Providers delivering consulting services and Integrated Work Packages across the Department of Defence, leveraging innovative approaches such as mission and digital engineering to enable the successful delivery of critical Defence programs. This includes engagement with key areas across Defence including Defence Digital Group (DDG), Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group (CASG), and the Navy, Army, and Air Force.
Team Downer is currently recruiting a Sustainment Manager based in Canberra, Adelaide or Melbourne to manage a portfolio of systems that contribute to understanding and managing the space domain ensuring capabilities remain available, reliable, and meet Australia's space security objectives.
Develop and manage sustainment strategies – Plan maintenance, upgrades, and obsolescence management while integrating with Defence asset frameworks. Oversee programs and contracts – Manage sustainment services, monitor budgets, ensure compliance, and govern complex technical contracts, including international agreements. Maintain stakeholder relationships – Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, international allies, and industry partners in space domain awareness and control. Ensure technical integrity and resource management – Support system calibration, documentation, configuration control, and oversee logistics for specialised components and secure data pathways. Manage risks and monitor performance – Assess and mitigate sustainment risks while tracking and reporting on operational effectiveness
Essential Experience & Skills:
Relevant Qualifications & Experience – Degree in engineering, IT, physics, business, or project management, with experience in Defence, sustainment, logistics, or complex technical systems. Project & Contract Management – Skilled in managing technical projects, Defence contracts (ASDEFCON), and sustainment programs, ideally with certifications like PRINCE2 or PMP. Resource & Risk Management – Expertise in logistics, supply chain management, asset lifecycle planning, and assessing risks in interconnected systems. Stakeholder Engagement – Ability to collaborate with Defence personnel, technical experts, industry partners, and international allies. Strong Communication Skills – Capable of conveying complex technical and program information clearly to diverse audiences.
Our work is highly complex and confidential; applicants must be Australian citizens with a minimum NV1 security clearance. Additionally, compliance with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) requirements may be necessary. In some cases, this may impose restrictions individuals who are dual citizens, permanent residency, or former nationality of specific countries as outlined in ITAR 126.1.
More than anything, you’ll bring a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and a commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes for our clients.
Why join Downer Professional Services?
At Downer Professional Services, we’re not just a workplace, we’re a business dedicated to contributing to the shaping of the future of defence in Australia. As the country’s only sovereign prime, we’re committed to making a real difference in protecting Australia’s interests.
Be first in line for future opportunities – By joining our talent network, you’ll receive priority consideration for upcoming roles that align with your skills and career goals, ensuring you stay ahead of the curve. Work on projects that matter – You’ll have the chance to contribute to career-defining projects that support Australia’s sovereign capability and national security, delivering real impact in Defence, government, and infrastructure. Invest in your growth – We believe in continuous learning. Whether it’s through structured career mapping, mentoring, training programs, or our Summer and Winter Schools for accelerated learning, we provide the resources to help you advance in your career. Collaborate with Industry experts – You’ll work alongside highly skilled professionals and leaders in a supportive and collaborative environment, where knowledge-sharing and professional development are at the core of what we do. Enjoy a range of perks & benefits – As part of Perks@Downer, you’ll have access to discounted healthcare, savings on retail and car purchases, and exclusive industry benefits to support your lifestyle. Strong veteran support & Inclusion Initiatives – We actively support Defence veterans with policies including up to 20 days of Reservist Leave to help you transition while staying connected to service.
Let’s connect
If you’re interested in future opportunities with Downer Professional Services, register your Interest today. Simply apply now, and we’ll be in touch as relevant roles become available.
Downer Group is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, including First Nations people and those from culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
At Downer Professional Services, we’re not just a workplace—we’re a business dedicated to contributing to the shaping of the future of defence in Australia. As the country’s only sovereign prime, we’re committed to making a real difference in protecting Australia’s interests.