Communications System Engineer

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.

We currently have an opportunity for a SATCOM Engineer in Canberra to work on Space projects
.

What You'll Do

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

• Project Planning and Documentation
• Prepare and review project management office plans, Gate 2 documentation, and other key deliverables to support project execution and governance.
• Scheduling, Estimating, and Risk Management
• Conduct planning, task estimation, and risk assessments, including identification and tracking of major risks and support for risk reduction activities.
• Tender Evaluation and Procurement Support
• Participate in Tender Evaluation Working Groups (TEWGs), validate tender responses, and develop supporting procurement documentation such as evaluation reports and negotiation directives.
• Technical and Interface Development
• Create and update system specifications, interface definitions, and management plans for integration with Defence strategic, deployed, and external networks.
• Safety, Security, and Logistics Planning -
  Support safety and security program planning for future certification and accreditation, and develop logistics support documentation across the capability lifecycle.

What You'll Bring

• Project Management Capability
• Demonstrated experience in CASG pre-Gate 1/Gate 2 projects, Defence Capability Life Cycle, ASDEFCON tendering, and development of Gate 2 documentation including PES and IPMP.
• Systems and SATCOM Engineering Expertise
• Strong background in communications, systems, and software engineering, with knowledge of Defence systems engineering policies and SATCOM systems; capable of supporting requirements analysis, tender evaluations, and spacecraft operations.
• Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) Proficiency
• Formal logistics qualifications and Defence experience, with deep understanding of ILS processes, Defence logistics systems, technical regulation requirements, and contractor ILS program management.
• Commercial and Pricing Acumen
• Proficiency in CASG cost modelling and estimation tools, with experience in tender evaluation and offer definition; strong drafting skills and attention to detail in commercial documentation and policy research.
• Qualifications and Stakeholder Engagement
• Relevant tertiary and professional qualifications (e.g. AIPM), and proven ability to engage stakeholders independently across Defence infrastructure and capability projects, including facilities project oversight and issue escalation.

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 .
• 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.