Welding Capability Lead

**WHY AUSTAL**

Austal**(ASX: ASB)**is Australia’s global shipbuilder, Defence prime contractor and maritime technology partner of choice; designing, constructing, and supporting defence and commercial vessels for the world’s leading operators. The company operates shipbuilding and sustainment facilities in Australia, the USA, Philippines, and Vietnam.

Austal Australia is delivering multiple naval shipbuilding and sustainment programs for the Royal Australian Navy, Australian Border Force, and the Department of Defence, employing approximately 1,000 people in facilities in located Western Australia, Queensland, and the Northern Territory.

**Strategic Shipbuilding Agreement (SSA)**

With an exciting pipeline of future work for the Australian Defence Force at the Henderson Shipyard, now is the time to join us to be a part of some meaningful work in a dynamic and outcome focussed environment.

We are on our path towards becoming the Commonwealths “Strategic Shipbuilder” in the West, aiming to be in contract for the Strategic Shipbuilding Agreement (SSA). Join us for this exciting opportunity to be part of continuous naval shipbuilding, contributing and significant work for the Australian Defence Force.

The SSA will establish an overarching program which enables the design and build of vessels at the Henderson Shipyard. The objective of the SSA is to possess the capacity and capability to initially deliver Landing Craft Medium & Heavy for the Australian Army in supporting continuous naval shipbuilding in WA.

The SSA is about establishing the capability within the Henderson Precinct, and Western Australia, to continuously build vessels for the Commonwealth. It will be led by Austal, and will require the engagement of local industry, supply chain and workforce to be successful.

Working within the SSA will provide career development opportunities whilst working alongside experienced, dedicated, and passionate industry professionals, in a collaborative, dynamic and outcome focused environment.

**Why Defence Industry**

Defence in Australia is a $40 bn per annum industry that is growing faster than many other sectors in the economy. In Western Australia, the defence industry is set for even faster growth to support the country’s need to increase its defence capabilities.

A career in defence industry rewards collaboration, curiosity, and ingenuity. Defence Industry attracts talent with research, manufacturing and technology skills which means our people come from many backgrounds, bringing a rich and diverse culture.

**About the Opportunity**
- Enhance and ensure the efficiency of welding operations for all major projects within the Australian shipbuilding business.
- Create and execute Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Plans in line with the Austal Quality Management System (QMS), customized as needed for specific projects or programs.
- Develop and implement Quality Control procedures to monitor and improve welding operations.
- Ensure project compliance with welding processes and quality control plans.
- Address non-conformance issues according to prescribed standards.
- Continuously review and enhance project processes to improve business operations and the quality of Austal-supplied products.
- Train project and quality teams on weld control procedures and best practices.

**Skills and Experience**
- Diploma or higher qualification in Welding Engineering, Non-Destructive Testing, or related discipline (required)
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in welding operations
- Detailed knowledge of welding techniques, materials and equipment including methods for weld inspection and testing in support of efficient operations.
- In-depth understanding of industry standards and codes
- Proficiency in welding software and tools
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Internal auditor training (Nationally Accredited)
- International Welding Engineer (IWE) or International Welding Supervisor (IWS) qualification (desirable)
- Experienced with developing capability in Shipbuilding Accuracy Control methods (desirable)
- Qualification in Lean Manufacturing/TQM or Six Sigma (desirable)
- Knowledgeable of and experienced with robotic welding systems (desirable)
- Lead auditor training (Nationally Accredited) (desirable)

**Security Clearance roles only**: Due to the Security Clearance required for this position, applicants must be an Australian Citizen and eligible to obtain and uphold a Baseline Security Clearance through the Australian Department of Defence.

**Benefits**
- True work/life balance with a 9 day fortnight
- Competitive salary package and generous employee benefits (including EAP, retailer discounts, salary sacrificing and novated leasing, where applicable)
- Professional development and training opportunities
- A supportive and dynamic work environment with an established mentor program
- Real opportunities for genuine career advancement within our growing, global organisation

**Culture**

Our global tea