At Downer Professional Services (DPS) , we are committed to delivering outcomes that put Australia’s interests first . We work on complex and impactful Defence, government, and infrastructure projects that shape the future of our nation. Our people are at the core of our success, bringing expertise, innovation, and leadership to critical Defence programs.
Our Technical, Advisory, and Capability practice and Team Downer serves as one of the Major Service Providers delivering consulting services and Integrated Work Packages across the Department of Defence, leveraging innovative approaches such as mission and digital engineering to enable the successful delivery of critical Defence programs.
This includes collaboration with key Defence entities, including Defence Digital Group (DDG), National Shipbuilding and Sustainment Group (NSSG), Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group (CASG), and branches across the Navy, Army, and Air Force .

If successful in securing a role, your work may involve:

• Deliver expert technical services , taking responsibility for planning, compliance, resource management, and the documentation of equipment and systems.
• Apply industry best practices in alignment with Australian and international standards, regulations, and Defence requirements.
• Demonstrate initiative and leadership , operating independently and managing technical or supervisory objectives to successful outcomes.
• Influence and collaborate effectively , engaging with stakeholders across organisations to provide specialist advice and shape project direction.
• Perform complex technical activities within communications/SATCOM environments.

Our work is highly complex and confidential; applicants must be Australian citizens with a minimum NV1 security clearance. Additionally, compliance with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) requirements may be necessary. In some cases, this may impose restrictions individuals who are dual citizens, permanent residency, or former nationality of specific countries as outlined in ITAR 126.1.
More than anything, you’ll bring a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and a commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes for our clients.

We are seeking a SATCOM Principal Engineer with the following experience within defence:

• CPEng + Engineering qualifications (Electrical, Electronics, Communications, Systems, or related)
• SATCOM or communications experience in projects within the One Defence Capability System, including relevant experience in the Joint or Land Domain.
• Strong understanding of Land Domain integration and engineering governance .
• Demonstrated risk management and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Familiarity with joint/coalition SATCOM interoperability standards , and knowledge of Land Materiel Design Acceptance and relevant Defence instructions.

About the Role :
Seeking a Principal Engineer to lead technical assurance for narrowband SATCOM systems within the CA-66 Land Systems project. This role ensures integration with land-based platforms, compliance with Defence standards, and certification of materiel on behalf of the Commonwealth under delegated authority from the Chief Engineer, SATCOM SPO.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead technical assurance and certification for narrowband SATCOM systems in the Land Domain.
• Ensure systems are safe, compliant, and fit for service throughout their lifecycle.
• Align engineering activities with CA-66 project requirements and Land Division standards.
• Manage Technical Authority assignments and ensure SQEP coverage across functions.
• Conduct design reviews, risk assessments, and technical approvals.
• Maintain engineering governance, standards, and compliance with Defence frameworks.
• Provide expert advice to stakeholders and represent SATCOM SPO in technical forums.
• Drive innovation and continuous improvement in narrowband SATCOM capabilities.

If successful in securing a role, your work may involve:

• Deliver expert technical services , taking responsibility for planning, compliance, resource management, and the documentation of equipment and systems.
• Apply industry best practices in alignment with Australian and international standards, regulations, and Defence requirements.
• Demonstrate initiative and leadership , operating independently and managing technical or supervisory objectives to successful outcomes.
• Influence and collaborate effectively , engaging with stakeholders across organisations to provide specialist advice and shape project direction.
• Perform complex technical activities within communications/SATCOM environments