Capability Manager

The Role
An EL 1 Project Manager will exercise a considerable degree of independence and perform a leadership role. They will exercise sound decision making and judgement to provide expert policy advice. They will have in-depth knowledge of the Project Management function and are responsible for the development, implementation, compliance and review of policies and procedures relevant to their work within that function. They will engage in complex to very complex problem solving and issues management and may coordinate and perform detailed or sensitive projects that impact on strategic, political or operational outcomes for Defence.
An EL 1 Project Manager is accountable to plan, lead and manage a range of human and physical resources and exercise the associated people and financial responsibilities to achieve business outcomes. They will manage one or more teams. They will develop and implement work plans, set performance indicators, and review individual, team and business performance, focusing on identifying opportunities for building team capability and continuous improvement. They will set work that align with the strategic objectives and communicate expected outcomes.
An EL 1 Project Manager will be responsible for actively managing key stakeholder relationships and will be required to identify relevant stakeholders' expectations and concerns to develop and communicate methodologies and practices to achieve outcomes. They will be accountable to contribute towards ongoing self-improvement and professional development of their work area.
This position has people management responsibility and as such, you will be required to exercise your people management skills, knowledge to lead a high performing, and cohesive team.

This role is eligible for an additional remuneration benefit known in Defence as a Building Defence Capability Payment (BDCP). This enables Defence to provide a premium, in addition to the base salary otherwise payable under the Defence Enterprise Collective Agreement (DECA), for positions in occupational disciplines/classifications that are critical to Defence capability. For further information, please contact the contact officer.

About our Team
The Cyber Capability Design Directorate plays a critical role in strengthening the organisations cyber capability posture by assessing current and future operational requirements and identifying gaps in cyber capabilities. The directorate collaborates with stakeholders to define capability needs, ensuring alignment with organisational priorities and threat landscapes, making strategic enhancements.

It conducts detailed risk assessments, capability mapping, and gap analysis to inform the design and development of fit-for-purpose cyber capabilities. A key responsibility is to prioritise cyber capability investments based on risk, impact, and strategic value, ensuring the most critical gaps are addressed efficiently. Through structured governance and planning, the directorate oversees the integration of new capabilities into the broader enterprise architecture. This function ensures that cyber investments deliver value, enhance resilience, and support the organisation's mission objectives in an increasingly complex and contested digital environment.

Our Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate for a Cyber Capability Design Directorate possesses a blend of strategic thinking, technical expertise, and strong stakeholder engagement skills. Key characteristics include:

• Strategic Acumen – Demonstrates the ability to align cyber capability planning with organisational objectives and evolving threat landscapes.
• Technical Proficiency – Has deep knowledge of cyber principles, emerging technologies, and the supporting artefacts required to support investment.
• Analytical Capability – Skilled in conducting gap analyses, risk assessments, and prioritising cyber investments based on criticality and strategic alignment.
• Stakeholder Engagement – Effectively collaborates across business units, technical teams, and executive leadership to gather requirements and influence outcomes.
• Decision-Making – Makes informed, evidence-based decisions underpinned by data and strategic context.
• Program and Change Management – Experienced in leading the integration of new capabilities and navigating complex organisational environments.
• Communication Skills – Clearly articulates complex cyber issues and investment rationale to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Adaptability – Comfortable operating in dynamic, high-stakes environments and responding to rapidly changing priorities.

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

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