Aps 6 - Contracting Officer

$95,187 - $108,734 + up to 15.4% Superannuation
- Edinburgh - SA, Fairbairn - ACT, Fishermans Bend - VIC

**The Role**
Research Contracts and Agreements Team (RCAT) delivers the centralised commercial and contracting function in Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG). It supports Defence’s Innovation, Science and Technology (IS&T) objectives by implementing contracts and agreements with external parties including Australian universities, industry partners and other research agencies.

The role will require you to support senior contracting officers in RCAT, to engage with a variety of internal and external stakeholders to respond to simple procurement and contract enquiries, and take the initiative to identify alternative courses of action where necessary. You will also be required to identify, anticipate and respond to stakeholders’ needs and expectations to achieve team outcomes.

An APS 6 Contracting Officer will have good communication skills and under guidance and support, be proficient in stakeholder engagement and liaising with stakeholders in relation to complex or difficult issues. They will be accountable to contribute towards ongoing self-improvement and professional development. This role is suited to highly organised, pro-active and personable individuals who enjoy working in a fast tempo environment with a client focus mindset.

**About our Team**
Within the Science Strategic Planning and Engagement Division (SSPE) in DSTG, the Research Contracts and Agreements Team (RCAT) supports Defence IS&T objectives through the provision of high-level contracting and procurement support to draft, negotiate and implement research contracts and agreements. Working with Defence and Commonwealth procurement policies and procedures, the team is comprised of highly experienced commercial and procurement specialists with considerable experience in both traditional Defence procurement and contracting domains as well as research specific enterprises.

The team provides high-level support to the entire Australian Defence Organisation to deliver efficient and effective procurement and contracting support. RCAT works closely with specialist areas within Defence including security, legal, commercialisation and partnering to ensure our procurement and contracting advice is robust and complies with Defence and Commonwealth policies and rules as applicable to IS&T activities.

The team comprises highly experienced procurement and contracting specialists with diverse backgrounds and experience, who embody Defence and Australian Public Service values. We offer flexible working arrangements and a range of formal and informal professional development opportunities.
- Negotiate and draft simple research agreements with external parties.
- Provide guidance, advice and support services throughout the procurement lifecycle and contract drafting activities as required.
- Demonstrate a good understanding of the requirements of the Commonwealth Procurement Rules and connected policies.
- Build, manage and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders as well as influence others to achieve tasks and business objectives.
- Demonstrate effective, well-developed communication skills with the ability to tailor their approach, both written and verbal;
- Demonstrate a highly motivated and solutions focused approach; is trustworthy, transparent and possesses the highest level of integrity; and is able to work in a collaborative team environment to achieve shared objectives;
- Demonstrate a strong attention to detail and the ability to effectively prioritise work activities to meet deadlines.
We are seeking enthusiastic individuals who pride themselves on delivering to a high standard of service to clients with excellent attention to detail.