Deputy Engineering Manager

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 is comprised of two business units, our Technical, Advisory, and Capability consulting practice and Team Downer, a major service partner to Defence. Together, we are a multi-disciplinary advisory and delivery partner of choice for our clients in Defence and National Security.

As the Deputy Engineering Manager, you will lead and coordinate engineering activities supporting the acquisition and implementation of the Enhanced Defence High Frequency Communications System (EDHFCS), ensuring technical governance, compliance, and team development. 

The position is based onsite at Campbell Park, Canberra.

What You’Ll Do

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

• Oversee and coordinate JP9101 engineering activities in support of EDHFCS acquisition
• Ensure EDHFCS capability requirements are met throughout the acquisition process
• Manage and maintain the JP9101 engineering documentation suite
• Provide formal engineering advice and maintain technical risk registers
• Supervise the engineering team and support their professional development

What You’Ll Bring

• Chartered Professional Engineer status or eligibility through a recognised body (e.g., Engineers Australia)
• Tertiary qualifications in Systems Engineering or equivalent experience
• Strong leadership and stakeholder engagement skills
• Experience in Defence capability projects and knowledge of ODCS and ASDEFCON suite
• Proven ability to manage cross-functional teams and drive strategic outcomes

Due to the nature of the work, you are required to currently hold and maintain a minimum Negative Vetting 1 or higher 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.