Software Engineer - Python

Cleared Recruitment are supporting AFP who are looking to engage Python Software Engineers with Baseline clearance or above. The role requires strong experience in UI development, backend logic, API design, messaging integration, and CI/CD pipeline.

Software Engineer (Developer)
RFQ ID
LH-05421
Deadline for asking questions
Thursday, 22 January 2026
RFQ closing date
Monday, 26 January 2026
Buyer
Australian Federal Police

Estimated start date
Monday, 02 March 2026
Initial contract duration
12 months
Extension term
Other
Extension term details
any number of periods not exceeding 12 months
Number of extensions
Buyer has not provided these details

Experience level
APS6 equivalent
Location of work
ACT
Working arrangements
Onsite
Must be onsite at least 4 days a week. Must start and finish work within our standard working hours 7am to 6pm on business days
Maximum hours
40 hours per week
Security clearance
Must be able to obtain Negative Vetting Level 1
Job details
Software Engineers write and test code, optimise software for speed and capability, evaluate and test new software, design and maintain software systems under limited supervision.
Key duties and responsibilities
The CTO Transition Program has a requirement for an experienced Python Developer who can design, build, maintain, and troubleshoot a Django-based application across the full stack.
The role requires strong experience in UI development, backend logic, API design, messaging integration, and CI/CD pipeline.
Mandatory requirements:

• 
  Strong proficiency in the Python 3 programming language

• 
  5 years' experience in similar environments

Essential requirements:

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  Solid, hands-on experience with Django and Django REST framework

• 
  Proven experience building and maintaining REST APIs using Django REST framework

• 
  Experience working with message queues / streaming platforms (e.g. Apache Pulsar)

• 
  Good understanding of asynchronous and event-driven architectures

• 
  Strong SQL skills and experience with PostgreSQL or similar relational database.

• 
  Strong debugging and problem-solving skills across the full stack.

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  Experience working with Django ORM and MVC/MVT Architecture

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  Experience working with Django Models and Migrations

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  Experience using collaboration tools that include git, issue tracking and wikis (e.g. GitLab, GitHub, Azure DevOps)

Desirable requirements:

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  Front-end development (e.g. JavaScript, AlpineJS, HTML and CSS)

• 
  Experienced in message queues/event streaming (e.g. Pulsar)

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  Experience with provisioning workflows or distributed systems

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  NoSQL databases (e.g. Elasticsearch, Cassandra)

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  Workflow orchestration (e.g. Nifi)

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  Containerisation technologies (e.g. Docker, Kubernetes)

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  Advanced experience designing, optimising, and maintaining GitLabCI/CD pipelines.)

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  Working with Agile methodologies (e.g. Kanban, Scrum)

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  Knowledge on virtual environments, deployment and pipelines.

Criteria
The buyer has specified that each candidate must provide a response to each criterion. Each response is limited to 3000 characters.

Essential criteria
1.Relevant Experience Demonstrated relevant experience (and past performance) in delivering the same or similar goods and/or services.
2.Ability to deliver Availability of required goods or services, committed available resources (including specified persons, contractors or consultants), and/or demonstrated ability to deliver within required timeframes to an acceptable quality standard.
3.Achieve results Ability to achieve team objectives and delivers on intended results, builds capability and responsiveness within the team, adapts to, supports and manages change.

Criteria
The buyer has specified that each candidate must provide a response to each criterion. Each response is limited to 3000 characters / 500 words. Highlighted in yellow. Respond in third person. Recommended 2-4 paragraphs - Please tailor your responses to meet the essential and desirable requirements above highlighted in green

• 
  Example - Understanding of machine learning algorithms, data science frameworks, and programming expertise to create innovative AI solutions

Tim has a strong understanding of machine learning algorithms and data science frameworks, applying these skills to deliver practical AI-driven solutions in real-world environments. For example, he developed a predictive maintenance model using Python, scikit-learn, and TensorFlow to forecast equipment failures within Defence systems, reducing downtime by over 25%. He also implemented a computer vision pipeline leveraging OpenCV and PyTorch to automate the classification of high-resolution sensor imagery, significantly improving data analysis efficiency.
In addition, Tim has applied his expertise in data preprocessing, feature engineering, and model optimisation to improve model accuracy and reliability. His programming proficiency extends to Python, C++, and SQL, enabling seamless integration of AI models into existing enterprise systems.
Through these projects, Tim has demonstrated a strong capability to translate theoretical machine learning concepts into innovative and operationally effective AI solutions.

Clearance required
Baseline clearance or above required - Unsure? Visit before applying- https://www.agsva.gov.au/about/security-clearance-definitions

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.

To arrange a confidential conversation or apply, please contact Emily on 0401791117 or to view all our current openings, please visit https://www.clearedrecruitment.com.au/