Defence Cyber Range (DCR) Engineering Lead

Defence Cyber Range (DCR) Engineering Lead - Canberra, ACT - Hybrid - NV1 Clearance Required - 6 Month Contract Opportunity

Company Overview

At Cleared, we provide tailored recruitment solutions to individuals seeking their next opportunity and to organisations searching for talent within the Defence Industry, Intelligence and National Security sectors. Our mission is to connect highly skilled professionals with roles that contribute to Australia's national interest and security.

Job Description

We are seeking a highly experienced Engineering Lead to support the Defence Cyber Range (DCR) within the Cyberspace Operations Systems Program Office (COSPO). This leadership role involves managing all engineering activities throughout the system lifecycle, working closely with the Product Manager and a dedicated team of technical specialists.

This role is essential to shaping the future of Australia's cyber defence capabilities and presents a unique opportunity to work at the cutting edge of Defence technology.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the engineering team within the DCR Product Line.

• Conduct all work in line with the COSPO Engineering Management System.

• Shape and drive system development strategy in collaboration with the Product Manager and key stakeholders.

• Guide the team through the Defence Capability Life Cycle and AGILE development frameworks.

• Lead system integration with nominated external systems.

• Review technical artefacts and documentation to ensure compliance with project standards.

• Manage Engineering Change Proposals and lifecycle enhancements.

• Provide technical inputs to project planning and future tranche development.

• Participate in hiring activities for technical staff.

• Triage and manage user stories, defects, and backlog tasks.

• Contribute to and maintain product schedules and event planning.

• Participate in FVEY (Five Eyes) cyber range coordination meetings (including occasional out-of-hours engagement).

• Work closely with the Cyber Security Manager to respond to and investigate security breaches.

• Support product reporting requirements with accurate and traceable information.

• Actively contribute to process improvements and the COSPO Engineering Management System.

• Build strong working relationships across teams and stakeholders.

Education/Certifications Required

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related discipline.

• Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) or eligibility for chartered status is desirable.

• AGILE or SAFe certification is advantageous.

Knowledge/Skills Required

• Proven experience leading engineering teams within complex ICT or cyber programs.

• Deep understanding of systems engineering, architecture, and integration in a Defence context.

• Familiarity with the Defence Capability Life Cycle and AGILE methodologies.

• Experience with secure system design, testing, and deployment.

• Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills.

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.

• High-level written and verbal communication skills.

• Understanding of Defence engineering governance, policies, and security protocols.

• NV1 security clearance (or higher) required - Australian Citizenship mandatory.

Employment Benefits

• Competitive Contract rates

• Flexible hybrid working arrangements

• Work on nationally significant projects in cyber and information warfare

• Opportunities for professional development and certification

• Supportive, high-performing team culture

Diversity and Inclusion

At Cleared, we believe in the power of diversity. We are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for people of all backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. We welcome applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disabilities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and culturally diverse communities.

Veterans

Defence and Federal Government industry experience is highly desirable. We strongly encourage veterans and individuals with Defence experience to apply. Your unique skills and background are highly valued, and we are committed to supporting your transition into this role.

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