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 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 collaboration with key Defence entities, including Defence Digital Group (DDG), National Shipbuilding and Sustainment Group (NSSG), Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group (CASG), and branches across the Navy, Army, and Air Force. 

The successful candidate shall provide engineering services associated with requirements engineering, engineering metrics, integration engineering, Verification and Validation (V&V), test and evaluation, and technical performance measures.

If successful in securing a role, your work may involve:

Deliver expert technical services, taking responsibility for planning, compliance, resource management, and the documentation of equipment and systems. Apply industry best practices in alignment with Australian and international standards, regulations, and Defence requirements. Demonstrate initiative and leadership, operating independently and managing technical or supervisory objectives to successful outcomes. Influence and collaborate effectively, engaging with stakeholders across organisations to provide specialist advice and shape project direction. Perform complex technical activities, including hazard analysis, contract documentation, planning, and reporting, while selecting and applying appropriate tools and methods.

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. 

We are seeking a Systems Engineer with defence industry experience in the follow areas: 

Engineering qualifications (Electrical, Electronics, Communications, RF, Systems, Mechatronics, or Mechanical)  Systems engineering experience in projects within the One Defence Capability System, including relevant experience in the Joint or Land Domain.  Development of key engineering project artefacts such as the Systems Engineering Management Plan (SEMP), Materiel Certification Plan (MCP), Verification Cross Reference Matrix (VCRM) and Verification and Validation (V&V) Plans, Procedures, Reports and Final Inspection and Test (FI&T) Plans, Procedures and Reports.  Planning, scoping, budgeting and forecasting of tasks, activities and deliverables within the Project, and the ability to work in a distributed team across a varied workforce and environment.  Conducting of key tests, trials and demonstration activities in support of the above-mentioned key artefacts. 

About the Role: 

LC4S SPO are seeking an experienced Systems Engineer to join the dynamic SOCTN team. The successful candidate will play a critical role supporting the design, implementation, and maintenance of complex tactical ICT systems. This role requires strong technical expertise, and problem-solving skills, and the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality solutions.

Key Tasks for candidate’s primary responsibility include:

•    Ability to integrate with the established engineering team

•    Test and Evaluation services including V&V services and maintaining requirements traceability

•    Support independent V&V activities

Essential job criteria:

Services are to be provided by personnel holding tertiary qualifications in a relevant engineering field, with experience in and practical knowledge of test and evaluation and V&V, particularly in the areas of planning and reporting for V&V activities (including user acceptance testing), and operational test and evaluation in industry/ commercial environment.

Qualifications and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Systems Engineering, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred but not mandatory) Extensive experience as a Systems Engineer or similar role in ICT projects Demonstrated experience in system testing, validation, and quality assurance to ensure solutions meet performance and reliability standards Have previously held or the ability to hold a technical delegation.

Experience Skills Sought: 

As the successful candidate, you will possess the following skills:

Excellent communication skills to liaise with technical and non-technical stakeholders Team-oriented mindset with a commitment to fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing Detail-oriented with a focus on delivering high quality, reliable solutions. Demonstrated experience in creating and maintaining comprehensive technical documentation such as plans, procedures and reports Demonstrated experience in delivering integrated ICT solutions with close collaboration with project managers, developers, network engineers, and other stakeholders

Highly Desirable Experience and / or Qualifications:

Networking qualifications and/or experience Experience in fault analysis and the use of IT network support tools and support management processes Experience with Government cyber security practices

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.