Senior Software Developer (Python/Django)

Title
Senior Software Developer (Python/Django)

Location
Canberra, ACT

Working Arrangement
Onsite (minimum 4 days per week)

Clearance required
NV1 or above

Contract Length
12 months initial

Extension Term
Further extensions available

Closing Date
4 June 2026

Company overview
We are currently working with the Australian Federal Police on a key hiring requirement within their CTO Transition Program. This team is driving the delivery of critical systems that support operational capability and data-led decision making across the organisation.

Job Description
This is a senior backend engineering role focused on building and delivering core components of a high-impact platform (ES‑WAMS). You'll be working in a small, hands-on team with strong ownership across design, build, and deployment.

The role suits someone who enjoys building clean, scalable systems and wants to see their work used in real-world, mission-critical environments.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Translate data schemas into Django models and build backend functionality
• Develop secure access control mechanisms
• Design and deliver RESTful APIs
• Build data workflows and transformation pipelines
• Support automated build, test, and deployment through CI/CD
• Implement logging, monitoring, and diagnostic capabilities
• Work closely within a small team and contribute to technical direction
• Support knowledge transfer and uplift across the team

Education/Certifications required

• Relevant tertiary qualification in IT, Software Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience)

Knowledge/Skills required

• Strong Python development experience
• Solid experience with Django framework
• Database experience (PostgreSQL, SQL, MySQL)
• Experience with Docker and Kubernetes
• Familiarity with DevOps practices and CI/CD pipelines
• Experience working in Linux environments
• Strong understanding of API development (REST)
• Experience with Git/version control
• Ability to work in a collaborative, small team environment

Desirable:

• Experience mentoring or supporting junior developers
• Exposure to test-driven development practices
• Experience working in government or regulated environments

Employment benefits

• Work on meaningful, real-world systems within a national security environment
• Strong ownership and impact in a senior technical role
• Opportunity to contribute to modern engineering practices and standards
• Long-term contract with potential extension

Diversity and Inclusion
We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.

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.

About Cleared
At Cleared, we provide tailored recruitment solutions to individuals seeking their next opportunity and to organisations searching for talent within Defence Industry, Intelligence and National Security.