Systems and Software Engineer

Overview

Join 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 comprises three business units: our Technical, Advisory, and Capability consulting practice, and Team Downer, which partners with CASG and NSSG as a major service provider to Defence. Together, we are a multi-disciplinary advisory and delivery partner of choice for clients across Defence and National Security.

We currently have an opportunity for a Systems and Software Engineer in Canberra to work on Joint projects.

What You’ll Do

This role offers a broad scope, with key role responsibilities including:

• Support planning and execution of the Engineering Program — contributing to structured delivery and program oversight.
• Engage with industry and stakeholders — collaborating across internal teams and external partners as part of contract and project management.
• Develop requirements, specifications, and engineering advice — shaping technical direction and informing project leadership.
• Participate in Agile activities — contributing to Sprint Planning, SCRUMs, and other iterative engineering forums.
• Review deliverables, support certification, and mentor junior engineers — ensuring quality outcomes while building capability within the team.

What You’ll Bring

Mandatory:

• CASG or SPO sustainment experience
• In‑Service Sustainment (Programs), Engineering Management & Assurance, Engineering Authority, Generalist Systems, Safety & Configuration.
• ASDEFCON (Support) artefacts (EMP, SEMP, CEMP) experience
• Solid systems engineering experience, including experience acting as Engineering Authority or delegate
• Experience contributing to in‑service or post‑IOC capability, not purely concept or early acquisition.
• Understanding of logistics factors and ILS
• Obsolescence & growth planning

Due to the nature of the work, you are required to currently hold and maintain a minimum Negative Vetting 1 or higher Security clearance as required by the Commonwealth. In some instances, compliance with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) requirements may also be an inherent requirement.

Why Downer Professional Services

At Downer Professional Services, we’re not just a workplace - we’re a business dedicated to contributing to the shaping of the future of defence in Australia. As the country’s only sovereign prime, we’re committed to making a real difference in protecting Australia’s interests.

What it means to belong at Downer Professional Services

• Meaningful work: Help to deliver critical Defence projects that protect Australia and shape its future.
• Professional development: Access career mapping, accelerated learning programs, and shared learning through our Communities of Practice.
• Great perks: Enjoy discounts on healthcare, retail, vehicles, and more through Perks@Downer.
• Veteran support: Benefit from initiatives like up to 20 days of Reservist Leave to stay connected post-service.

More than anything, you’ll bring a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and a commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes for our clients.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

We’re committed to building a team that reflects the diverse communities we serve and we welcome people of all ages, genders, sexual orientations, cultures, abilities, and lived experiences. We especially encourage applications from those whose voices have traditionally been underrepresented in our industry, including women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, Māori and Pasifika Peoples, veterans, people with disability, and neurodivergent individuals. If it feels like the right fit, apply - potential counts, and so do you.

As a WORK180 Endorsed Employer, we support flexibility that works for your life, inclusive leadership that values your voice, and equitable access to opportunity so you can do your best work and bring your whole self to it.

If you need support or adjustments through the recruitment process, just let us know, we’re here to help you put your best foot forward.