Power and Energy

The Role
An opportunity has risen for an experienced experimentalist/researcher (chemical/materials scientist/engineer) to support, and in the future lead, innovative research in the area of naval power and energy systems, in particular to support the next generation underwater naval platforms. Defence offers interesting jobs with a great perspective in an exciting and unique work environment. Our team comprises of a dynamic and multi-disciplinary group of scientists and engineers, who push the boundaries of science in next generation underwater platforms.

On offer is a rare opportunity to work closely with the highly exclusive Defence industry and academic partners, working side by side with the Royal Australian Navy, to develop and undertake research that will provide power and energy capability advantages to Navy. The role specifically offers niche insights into battery performance and abuse research within DSTG.

In this role, you will get to develop and nurture collaborations with external agencies, in particular Defence clients and industry/academia, focussing on integration of novel/emerging power and energy systems into maritime platforms We are interested in hearing from diverse candidates with relevant experience, and we prioritise curious and driven professionals with strong problem solving, communication and collaboration skills that our leadership can mentor and grow to achieve Defence Science and Technology outcomes.

About our Team
DSTG's Platforms Division delivers scientific advice, conducts research and develops innovative technologies to meet existing and future Defence challenges. Collaborating with the Science & Technology ecosystem, Platforms Divisions develops, integrates and experiments with innovative technologies in a multidisciplinary research program.

We are at the forefront of future systems, including autonomous vehicles, and the Defence Force's future submarine and surface ship programs. Platforms Division has an emphasis on delivering impact to the Australian Defence Force.

The Power and Energy Systems Group, in particular, supports the following areas:

• Mechanical Systems – research, modelling and engineering support for power generation, energy reduction and waste energy recovery technologies
• Electrical Systems – development and exploitation of electrical power and energy system models (main propulsion motors, power electronics and hardware power in the loop) and Pb-acid battery performance, integration and optimisation
• Electro-Chemical – materials development, performance modelling and prognosis and safety assessment of alternative battery chemistries.

Our next Power and Energy superstar will bring the following qualities to our team:

• Experience with undertaking and analysing Li-ion battery performance and abuse/failures and the development of mitigation systems
• Practical experience in design, development and operation of experimental systems (preferably at the bench or pilot scale).
• An understanding of gas analysis techniques as they apply to degradation products of battery technologies
• Delivery of applied science & technology outcomes to clients in a timely manner.
• Effective communication skills, in particular report preparation and the ability to engage with Defence clients and industry/academia collaborators
• Demonstrated ability to develop, maintain and ensure the safe use of critical experimental equipment and infrastructure – for example, data acquisition, data processing, electronic assembly, video processing etc.
• Ability to work with considerable autonomy and independence as part of a diverse team of APS and contractor staff and manage resources to deliver results that are relevant and timely.

Security Clearance:
Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance at "Negative Vetting Level 1".

Mandatory Qualifications:
The S&T4/APS 6 Researcher Platform Systems position may require:

• Academic qualifications in one or more of the following related fields of research;
• Relevant skills and work experience.

The Department of Defence employs around 18,000 Australian Public Service (APS) employees. Defence APS employees work in a wide variety of critical roles, Australia wide, enabling our three services Navy, Army and Air Force, to do their job. Defence has a range of Australian Public Service (APS) career opportunities that offer interesting, challenging, and unique work. Our workforce includes administrative support, accountants, intelligence analysts, engineers, policy advisors, graphic designers, lawyers, social workers, IT specialists and contract managers to name a few. We offer a rewarding career that includes professional development, work-life balance, recognition, a flexible and supportive work environment and a diverse workforce. To find out more about a career with Defence please visit