Contracting in Defence

4 days ago

Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Kinexus Australia Full time $80,000 - $120,000 per year

Kinexus is a recruitment agency specialising in security-cleared positions across the Defence industry. We place contractors into assignments with our clients to support niche skillsets, assist with surges on key projects, and provide specialised expertise that is hard to find elsewhere.

Contract opportunities have been more limited recently, following a challenging few years in the industry. Despite this, we continue to see strong demand for several specialised skillsets, and we expect this to carry into the new year.

Looking ahead to 2026, Melbourne's hiring will focus on Maritime and Land projects, with communications and autonomous projects continuing to offer opportunities for top talent.

Because of this, we're looking to connect with Defence professionals who hold these in-demand skills, which we see as critical to Defence contracting.

Skillsets Include

  • Systems Engineers - Combat, Electrical, Comms, V&V
  • Systems Safety Engineers
  • Test Engineers
  • ILS Engineers
  • Drafters - Mechanical, Electrical
  • Software Engineers - C++, Java, AI/ML
  • Project Controls / Project Schedulers - OPP, P6
  • Procurement/Commercial specialists

If you'll be looking for a new contract in 2026, or want to learn more about the market, rates, and the projects driving hiring in Melbourne, please apply today.

Please note: candidates should hold a current Defence security clearance (Baseline minimum; NV1 preferred) and have prior experience working on Defence programs.

All applications should include your resume as a word document.

For more information, visit our website, or contact Ellen Hanratty on

SCR-ellen-hanratty

  • Commercial Manager

    4 days ago

    Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Hays | Defence Full time $120,000 - $180,000 per year

    Your new company IMPORTANT: Please note - this is a relocation opportunity. A phased relocation is supported to move to the NSW coast, offering an excellent lifestyle change, without compromising on interesting projects & career progression. Are you excited about the prospect of leading, growing & working within in a dynamic & innovative team alongside...

  • Contracts and Procurement Manager

    2 weeks ago

    Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Downer Full time $120,000 - $180,000 per year

    DescriptionJoin 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,...

  • ILS Product Lead

    1 week ago

    Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Hanwha Defence Australia Full time

    About usHanwha Defence Australia (HDA) is a comprehensive defence solution provider, building on the strengths of its portfolio, which includes artillery systems, armoured vehicles, air defence systems, and unmanned ground systems. We are a subsidiary of Hanwha Corporation, the largest and most influential defence corporation in South Korea.Position...

  • Deputy Systems Engineering Manager

    2 days ago

    Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Hanwha Defence Australia Full time $120,000 - $180,000 per year

    About usHanwha Defence Australia (HDA) is a comprehensive defence solution provider, building on the strengths of its portfolio, which includes artillery systems, armoured vehicles, air defence systems, and unmanned ground systems. We are a subsidiary of Hanwha Corporation, the largest and most influential defence corporation in South Korea.Position...

  • Contracts Specialist

    2 days ago

    Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Whizdom Full time $80,000 - $120,000 per year

    About the Company Our client's purpose is Building a better working world. The insights and quality services that they provide help build trust and confidence in the capital markets and in economies the world over. About the role As the contracts specialist you will lead the commercial and contract strategy on a key 6-month engagement. You will define...

  • Senior Commercial Contracts Specialist

    1 week ago

    Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Peoplebank Full time $120,000 - $180,000 per year

    Exciting Career Move: Senior Commercial Contracts Specialist – Melbourne, AustraliaOur client is on the lookout for a confident and committedSenior Commercial Contracts Specialist to join their Melbourne-based team. This initial 6 month contract role is a unique opportunity to contribute to a large network transformation program.In this dynamic position,...

  • Senior Commercial Contracts Specialist

    12 hours ago

    Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Peoplebank Australia VIC Full time $90,000 - $120,000 per year

    Exciting Career Move: Senior Commercial Contracts Specialist – Melbourne, AustraliaOur client is on the lookout for a confident and committed Senior Commercial Contracts Specialist to join their Melbourne-based team. This initial 6 month contract role is a unique opportunity to contribute to a large network transformation program. This role has a strong...

  • Ancillary Networks and Commercial Partnerships

    2 days ago

    South Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Defence Health Ltd Full time $80,000 - $120,000 per year

    About usAt Defence Health, we're united in our purpose to protect the health of those who protect our country. We're here to support the families of serving ADF members, ex-serving ADF and Reservists, plus the wider Defence community to manage their health care. As a not-for-profit fund we are for our members, not shareholders.In the Defence Health family...

  • Senior Commercial Contracts Specialist

    1 week ago

    Melbourne, Victoria, Australia L3Harris Space and Airborne Systems Australia Pty Ltd Full time $80,000 - $120,000 per year

    L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers' mission and quest for professional growth. L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work-life success. Fundamental to our...

  • Commercial Specialist

    2 weeks ago

    Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Ventia Australia Pty Ltd Full time $60,000 - $100,000 per year

    About the RoleVentia's Defence & Social Infrastructure team require a Commercial Specialist in support of various Defence contracts across Australia.This role is accountable for supporting and optimising the commercial performance of Defence contracts by ensuring effective contract compliance, client engagement, risk mitigation, and value delivery.This is a...