Fabrication and Surface Preparation Capability Manager

At Thales, we know technology has the ability to make our world more secure, sustainable, and inclusive – and that it's all driven by human intelligence.

Because it takes human intelligence to build and power the systems and solutions that people depend on every day. So we stay curious and make space for diverse points of view. We share what we know and we challenge what's possible.

From manufacturing and engineering to cybersecurity and space, we're driving progress in some of the world's most important industries – and working together to build a future we can all trust.

Benefits @ Thales:

• Competitive remuneration + super + bonus
• Free medical health insurance for you and your family
• ThalesFlex – flexible working is our everyday
• Fitness Passport discount
• Employee discounts with a range of partners (travel, car hire, tech, and more)
• Modernised paid parental leave
• Novated lease options
• Family support through our partnership with Parents At Work

Our Team:

Our Above Water Systems team designs and engineers commercial and naval ships – as well as providing in-service support capabilities. We're proud to bolster Australia's sovereign capability through operational support to our Navy. With ongoing training programs and a team of over 500, our people have room to grow and move as they make a meaningful contribution to Australia's Defence.

About the Role:

Opportunity for a Fabrication and Surface Preparation Capability Manager to lead a team of skilled professionals responsible for providing Repair, Maintenance & Technical support to Defence in the areas of Major and Minor Fleet units and support services located around Australia, including specific Marine, Propulsion and Weapon systems across all Naval Services and platforms.

This is an exciting opportunity for a strong people leader who thrives on empowering teams, driving operational excellence, and delivering high-quality outcomes in a complex technical environment.

As the Fabrication and Surface Preparation Capability Manager , you will:

• Lead and develop a high-performing team across integrated workshops, ensuring collaboration between FSU, enterprise partners, and Thales staff.
• Foster a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement, applying LEAN and Short Interval Management principles.
• Provide technical direction and mentorship to staff and ensure trade compliance and certification across all Fabrication and Surface Preparation disciplines.
• Support workforce development, guiding staff in career progression, training, and performance improvement.
• Engage with customers and stakeholders, delivering practical, sustainable solutions and maintaining strong working relationships.
• Oversee project delivery, ensuring schedules, budgets, and contractual requirements are met.
• Champion workplace standards, ensuring safety, cleanliness, and compliance are consistently achieved.

About You:

You are a confident and capable leader with a proven track record of managing technical teams in dynamic, hands-on environments. You bring strong people management skills, a focus on team development, and a collaborative approach to achieving shared goals.

You will ideally have:

• 10+ years' experience leading and managing technical teams,
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to inspire, guide, and develop others.
• Diploma in Leadership and Management (or willingness to obtain within 12 months).
• Comprehensive understanding of OHS and a commitment to workplace safety.
• A Class C driver's licence and the ability to work in shipboard environments (e.g., ladders, confined spaces, manual handling).
• Availability for occasional weekend or shift work when required.

Good to Know:

You'll get an email acknowledgement after you've applied, Thales strives to provide a personalised experience for all suitable applicants.

As a Defence security clearance is required for this role, candidates Must be eligible to obtain and maintain an appropriate Australian Government clearance. To learn more about clearances please visit –

It's easy to dismiss the perfect opportunity if you don't see yourself as the perfect fit. If this role feels right – no matter your background or personal circumstances – please introduce yourself or join our community. We're committed to supporting a diverse workplace, and that starts here.

We're proud to be endorsed by WORK180 as an Employer for All Women, but we know there's always more we can do. We'll continue to foster industry partnerships, employee resource groups (ERGs) and development opportunities to make Thales a genuinely equitable employer, for everyone.

Read more about our WORK180 endorsement.