Contracts Advisor

The Company

Civmec Defence Industries (CDI) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Civmec Limited, an Australian-owned, integrated, multidisciplinary heavy engineering and construction services provider. CDI is committed to strengthening Australia's sovereign defence capability through advanced manufacturing, fabrication, and construction services. As the prime contractor delivering the Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) program for the Commonwealth of Australia, CDI plays a pivotal role in supporting national defence infrastructure. Backed by Civmec's broad expertise across the energy, resources, infrastructure, marine, and defence sectors, CDI offers diverse career opportunities and the chance to contribute to landmark projects within a dynamic and future-focused industry.

Join the Civmec Team

This is a key position within Civmec Defence Industries (CDI), responsible for ensuring compliance with the Head Contract between CDI and the Commonwealth of Australia for the Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) program. Reporting directly to the Deputy Project Director, the Contracts Advisor will oversee the preparation of formal correspondence, including drafting responses to contractual letters and notices. The role demands a strong background in contract drafting and administration, with a focus on managing complex contractual obligations and maintaining clear, professional communication with stakeholders. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to a nationally significant defence project within a high-performing and collaborative team environment.

The Role

• Take full ownership of all contractual correspondence under the Head Contract with the Commonwealth of Australia, including drafting, reviewing, and issuing notices, claims, and formal responses.
• Ensure compliance with all contractual obligations by proactively identifying and resolving issues to safeguard the company's commercial and legal interests.
• Lead the resolution of contract-related matters such as variations, extensions of time, and remeasurement claims, ensuring timely and accurate closeout.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders including project, legal, commercial, and technical teams to gather inputs and documentation required for effective contract administration.
• Establish and maintain systems and processes to support the recovery of variations and contract adjustments throughout the project lifecycle.
• Provide clear, practical legal and contractual advice to project teams and senior management, ensuring early identification and mitigation of risks.
• Conduct commercial and legal negotiations with the client to achieve favourable outcomes and maintain strong contractual relationships.
• Maintain comprehensive, audit-ready contract records that are current, accurate, and aligned with project requirements.
• Support the project team by providing training, guidance, and mentoring on contract compliance, correspondence standards, and best practices in contract administration.

About You

Your experience should include the following:

• University degree in Australian Law or equivalent

• Prior experience in a similar lead commercial role focusing on successful project outcomes

• Minimum 3 years' post admission experience in private practice or in-house as a qualified lawyer or in a similar role with specialisation in Australian construction law is required

• Strong, clear and effective communication skills, both written and verbal.

Civmec + You

At Civmec, we offer an inclusive workplace built on family values, with a 'Never Assume' culture, sustained by our experienced and supportive management team. We believe our workforce is our greatest asset, and that's why we provide an environment rich in career development opportunities to upskill and develop professionally. We offer 12 weeks paid parental leave for primary caregivers and 1 week for permanent secondary caregivers. Our generous Reward and Recognition scheme recognises employees that go the extra mile. Our staff benefits scheme gives you access to accident and sickness insurance, and a range of travel, entertainment, vehicle and lifestyle discounts.

How to Apply

Please click the "apply" link to start your application. We look forward to starting the pathway to your career with Civmec.

Alternatively, please email for a confidential chat or call our Recruitment Team on

Civmec is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. Defence force experience is desirable, and veterans are encouraged to apply.

We respectfully request no agency submissions.

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