Senior Technical Specialist

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 Senior Technical Specialist in Canberra to work on a Strategic Communications projects. 

What You'll Do

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

• Architect and oversee integration solutions across strategic and deployed Defence environments, ensuring alignment with Defence Information Environment (DIE) standards and secure operating frameworks.
• Provide expert technical advice and assurance to project teams and senior stakeholders, guiding solution design, risk mitigation, and compliance with Defence policies.
• Lead cross-domain integration efforts, including secure data exchange, system interoperability, and lifecycle management across classified environments.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including national and international Defence partners, to support strategic communications and capability delivery.
• Support incident and problem resolution, applying deep technical knowledge to resolve complex integration and interoperability challenges.
• Ensure architectural compliance with security, technical, and facility requirements, embedding governance and cost controls throughout the solution lifecycle.

What You'll Bring

• Demonstrated knowledge of both current and legacy Defence networks, including strategic, deployed, and coalition environments.
• Previous experience in Defence integration architecture, particularly within secure and classified environments such as the Defence Secret Environment or deployed communications systems.
• Strong background in end-to-end solution design, including successful delivery of key project milestones (e.g., System Design Review, Preliminary Design Review).
• Demonstrated leadership in technical oversight, including managing architectural compliance and providing authoritative guidance across multiple Defence programs.
• Experience working with Defence capability lifecycle processes, including engagement with CIOG/DDG/JCG and other Defence branches.
• Stakeholder engagement and collaboration, including coordination with federal government agencies and international Defence partners.

Due to the nature of the work, you are required to currently hold and maintain a minimum Negative Vetting 2 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.

Downer Group is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, including First Nations people and those from culturally and linguistically diverse communities.