Job Overview
The **Australian Department of Defence** is hiring a **Project Manager** to oversee critical projects across Defence capability, infrastructure, logistics, and information systems. This position is central to ensuring that Defence delivers complex, multi-year programs on time, on budget, and to specification. You will work closely with senior leadership, technical teams, and industry partners.
Job Details
- Position Title: Project Manager
- Organization: Department of Defence, Australian Government
- Location: Canberra, ACT (and other defence locations across Australia)
- Job Type: Full-Time, Ongoing/Permanent
- Salary Range: $100,000 – $130,000 AUD + 15.4% Super
- APS Classification: APS Level 6 / Executive Level 1 (depending on experience)
Benefits
- Competitive APS salary package with **15.4% superannuation**.
- Flexible working hours and generous leave entitlements.
- Career development and training support.
- Work on **high-impact projects** that support national defence and security.
- Opportunities for advancement into senior program management roles.
Key Responsibilities
- Plan, coordinate, and manage Defence projects from initiation to closure.
- Develop project documentation including business cases, schedules, risk registers, and procurement plans.
- Manage project budgets, contracts, and procurement activities.
- Lead stakeholder engagement and coordinate across multiple Defence divisions and external contractors.
- Monitor progress, provide status updates, and ensure project governance compliance.
- Identify and manage risks, issues, and change control processes.
- Apply project management frameworks in accordance with Defence PM standards (e.g., P3M, MSP).
Impact on National Security
This role provides a unique opportunity to contribute directly to Australia's national defence and security by ensuring the successful delivery of critical Defence capabilities and infrastructure.
Required & Desirable Skills
Required Qualifications & Skills
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Project Management, Engineering, Defence Studies, Business, or a related field.
- Experience: Minimum 3–5 years experience in managing complex projects, preferably within government or defence sector.
- Certifications: Certification in project management (e.g., PRINCE2, PMP, MSP).
- Soft Skills: Demonstrated experience in stakeholder management and negotiation.
- Strong leadership, problem-solving, and analytical thinking.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Desirable Experience
- Experience with Defence procurement and contracting (e.g., CASG, ASDEFCON templates).
- **NV1 or higher security clearance** (or ability to obtain).
- Experience using project tools such as MS Project, Primavera, Jira, or similar.
- Understanding of APS and Defence policies and governance frameworks.
Ideal Candidate Profile
We are seeking a highly capable and experienced Project Manager with a proven track record in complex project delivery, strong leadership qualities, and a commitment to supporting Australia's defence capabilities.
How to Apply
Visit the official **Defence Careers Portal**, search for “Project Manager” roles across available locations, and prepare your application, including your resume, a statement of claims (addressing selection criteria), and any supporting documentation.
Application Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly details your project management experience, highlighting complex projects and your role in their successful delivery.
- Your Statement of Claims is crucial; address each selection criterion thoroughly with specific examples.
- Be aware that obtaining a security clearance (like NV1) is a significant part of the process, and eligibility is mandatory.
- Applications generally close 2–3 weeks after posting, so apply early!