Systems Engineer

Canberra, AustraliaPosted Aug 3, 2026

Join our Downer Professional Services team and play a key role in delivering complex defence and national security projects that safeguard Australia’s future.  

 

Downer Professional Services comprises of three business units our Technical, Advisory, and Capability consulting practice, and Team Downer, which partners with CASG and NSSG as a major service provider to Defence. Together, we are a multi-disciplinary advisory and delivery partner of choice for clients across Defence and National Security. 

 

We currently have an opportunity for a Systems Engineer in Canberra to work on a Defence High Frequency Communications System.  

 

What You’ll Do  
 

This role offers a broad scope, with key role responsibilities including: 
 

  • Develop, manage, and maintain the CJC10 Engineering Documentation suite.

  • Provide formal Engineering advice regarding product engineering activities, across all relevant contracts.
  • Exercise appropriate Engineering Delegation as issued by the Chief Engineer and update and maintain technical risks.
  • Review and provide engineering feedback on contract deliverables in order to support the implementation of the DHFCS capability.
  • Collaborate with the wider CJC10 Product Team to provide Engineering input across all discipline streams.
     

 

What you'll bring:

  • Chartered Professional Engineer of a registered Professional Engineering Body (such as Engineers Australia) equivalent, or be able to attain chartered status.
  • Tertiary qualifications in Systems Engineering or other equivalent experience.
  • Experience in leadership and management roles, and an ability to coach and guide teams in the implementation of strategy and change.
  • ASDEFCON Suite Experience will be highly regarded.
  • Experience in Capability Projects in the Defence and/or Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group (CASG) environment.
  • Understanding of technical, logistical, and operational requirements in the delivery of capability, and knowledge of applicable Defence policy and legislation.
  • Knowledge of, and experience in the One Defence Capability System (ODCS).

 

Due to the nature of the work, you are required to currently hold and maintain an AGSVA Security clearance as required by the Commonwealth. In some instances, compliance with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) requirements may also be an inherent requirement. 
 

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 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.  

 

What is means to belong at Downer Professional Services  

 

  • Meaningful work: Help to deliver critical Defence projects that protect Australia and shape its future. 

  • Professional development: Access career mapping, accelerated learning programs, and shared learning through our Communities of Practice. 

  • Great perks: Enjoy discounts on healthcare, retail, vehicles, and more through Perks@Downer. 

  • Veteran support: Benefit from initiatives like up to 20 days of Reservist Leave to stay connected post-service. 

 

You want your work to matter and so do we.  With over 26,000 people across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific, our team is made up of individuals with unique perspectives, backgrounds, and ideas. 

We know that diversity makes us stronger and we actively celebrate it through our commitment to inclusion and belonging. 

 

We’re committed to building a team that reflects the diverse communities we serve and we welcome people of all ages, genders, sexual orientations, cultures, abilities, and lived experiences. We especially encourage applications from those whose voices have traditionally been underrepresented in our industry, including women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, Māori and Pasifika Peoples, veterans, people with disability, and neurodivergent individuals.  Even if your experience doesn’t align perfectly with this role, we’d still like to hear from you. If it feels like the right fit, apply - potential counts, and so do you. 

 

As a WORK180 Endorsed Employer, we support flexibility that works for your life, inclusive leadership that values your voice, and equitable access to opportunity so you can do your best work and bring your whole self to it. 

 

If you need support or adjustments through the recruitment process, just let us know, we’re here to help you put your best foot forward. 

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