Principal Cyber Security Engineer

Principal Cybersecurity Engineer on a Fed Gov program | Canberra-based, immediate start

Your new company

Are you ready to define and lead cybersecurity strategy within a fast-paced, mission-critical environment supporting Australia's national security and defence-aligned industries? This is a rare opportunity to join a rapidly growing company that designs and delivers secure enterprise solutions for complex, classified systems across government and defence sectors. Based in Canberra (with flexibility for interstate applicants), this permanent opportunity requires an active NV2 clearance and offers the chance to shape secure systems architecture across complex federal programs.

Your new role

As Principal Cyber Security Engineer, you'll guide the strategic direction of cybersecurity architecture and compliance across secure platforms and environments. This role blends governance, risk management, and technical leadership, with a strong emphasis on aligning systems with Australian security frameworks and standards. You'll report directly to executive leadership and eventually lead a team of systems and security engineers. While not fully hands-on, your technical background will be essential in shaping secure design principles and influencing architecture decisions.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and enforce cybersecurity standards aligned with ISO 27001, Essential Eight, DISP, and ISM
• Lead compliance and risk management initiatives across classified systems
• Support Authority to Operate (ATO) processes through documentation and technical validation
• Collaborate with engineering teams to embed secure design principles and controls
• Evaluate and integrate emerging cybersecurity technologies
• Influence architecture decisions and lead strategic security initiatives

What you'll need to succeed

• Must be an Australian citizen with an active NV2 clearance
• 8 to 10 years of cybersecurity experience in defence, government, or critical infrastructure sectors
• CISSP certification (or equivalent), plus ASD-recognised cybersecurity credentials
• Strong understanding of Defence security principles and DISP compliance is highly regarded
• Deep understanding of Australian cybersecurity frameworks including ISM, PSPF, and ASD Essential Eight
• Strong expertise in Linux/Windows systems, networking security, and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP)
• Hands-on experience with automation tools (Ansible, Terraform, Packer)
• Proficiency in Java and scripting languages (Python or Ruby)
• Demonstrated ability to lead cybersecurity initiatives and influence architecture decisions
• Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate across technical and non-technical teams

What you'll get in return

This is more than just a job-it's a chance to contribute to national resilience and innovation. You'll be part of a company that supports mission-critical operations through secure data aggregation, enterprise integration, and edge deployment across hybrid environments.

Benefits include:

• Lead cybersecurity strategy for a mission-critical federal program
• Be part of a dynamic, values-driven company with a growing footprint in Australia
• Hybrid work model with flexibility and support
• Canberra-based secure environment with potential for interstate applicants who meet clearance and experience requirement
• Permanent role with long-term career growth - annual performance bonus and professional development support
• Additional week of annual leave (5 weeks total), wellness and lifestyle allowances

What you need to do now

If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or reach out via email to If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.