Job Title: Data Centre Optical Network Specialist
Department: Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade (DFAT)
Location: ACT
Working arrangements: In office Canberra, 5 days in office; remote not considered.
Estimated start date: Monday, 24 August 2026
Contract length: 12 months, with up to 2 extensions of 12 months each.
Security clearance: Negative Vetting Level 2 (NV2) required; strong candidates without NV2 may be considered.

Rates: $120 - $140 per hour (incl. super)

Overview

At DFAT, the Telecommunications and Data Centre Support (TCS) delivers and operates the department’s communications and infrastructure backbone across data centres and global networks. This role supports DFAT’s core ICT infrastructure, underpinning the operational performance of the Data Centre Network (DCN) and DFAT Optical Network (DON) across the two Canberra-based data centres.

Responsibilities:

- Install and support network, server, and associated ICT infrastructure within DFAT data centres.
- Undertake fibre optic and copper cabling installation, termination, and testing, including rack preparation activities.
- Support the operation and sustainment of DCN and DON environments.
- Apply strong networking knowledge to troubleshoot, resolve, and optimise infrastructure performance.
- Assist in the development and maintenance of technical documentation under direction.
- Coordinate with internal teams and external vendors to deliver infrastructure solutions.
- Ensure all work is undertaken in accordance with DFAT standards, procedures, and safety requirements.

Essential Criteria:

1. Minimum 5+ years’ experience engineering, operating,



and supporting CIENA optical transport networks, including DWDM-based Data Centre Interconnect (DCI) solutions.
2. Strong understanding of optical network architecture, design, and implementation, including provisioning, testing, optimisation, and ongoing support of CIENA platforms to deliver high-capacity, resilient services.
3. Proven experience deploying and managing optical network infrastructure in data centre and enterprise environments, including fibre connectivity, carrier lead-in services, and end-to-end service commissioning.
4. Current Australian Government NV2 security clearance, or ability and willingness to obtain and maintain one.

Desirable Criteria:

1. Experience producing and maintaining technical documentation (HLD, LLD, build guides, operational procedures).
2. Experience working within government or large enterprise environments, particularly secure and/or multi-site network infrastructures.
3. Hands-on experience in data centre operations, including rack installation, structured cabling, and hardware lifecycle management.
4. Familiarity with telecommunications carriers and service providers, including coordination of circuits, provisioning activities, and fault resolution.

Qualifications:

- Relevant tertiary qualification in Information Technology, Telecommunications, Network Engineering or related discipline; or equivalent demonstrated industry experience.
- Industry certifications (desirable) such as Ciena Certified Network Associate/Professional, Cisco CCNA, CCNP, optical networking or transport certifications (e.g., DWDM/OTN), structured cabling or fibre optic handling certification.

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