The key duties of the position include:

The Role

The APS 6 Spectrum Specialist contributes to Defence's ability to access and utilise the electromagnetic spectrum in support of operations, capability development and strategic objectives. Working within the Defence Spectrum Office, you will apply technical judgement and spectrum management expertise to support the planning, coordination and authorisation of radiofrequency spectrum use across Defence.

You will work closely with stakeholders across Defence, Government and industry to develop spectrum solutions, assess technical risks, and ensure spectrum assignments align with domestic and international regulatory requirements. The role requires the ability to interpret policy, analyse complex technical issues and provide qualified advice that supports operational and capability outcomes.

This role is eligible for an additional remuneration benefit known in Defence as a Building Defence Capability Payment (BDCP). This enables Defence to provide a premium, in addition to the base salary otherwise payable under the Defence Enterprise Collective Agreement (DECA), for positions in occupational disciplines/classifications that are critical to Defence capability. For further information, please contact the contact officer.

About our Team

The Spectrum Management Operations (SMO) team is principally responsible and accountable for the management of Defence spectrum licenses and assignments, and as such provisions and ensures access to the Australian Defence Force (ADF) for radio communications services and similar in support of Defence operations, activities, and investments, domestically and abroad.

The SMO section also manages frequency assignment tools, resources, software, and provides administrative support to all of these functions directly with the broader Department, including ADF counterparts.

Our Ideal Candidate





Our ideal candidate is a motivated engineering or technical professional who is able to operate confidently in a complex and dynamic environment.

You will possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills, sound technical judgement, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly to a range of audiences. You will be comfortable engaging with internal and external stakeholders, balancing competing priorities and providing considered advice within regulatory and policy frameworks. You take ownership of outcomes, demonstrate initiative, and contribute to continuous improvement through the development of effective processes and technical solutions.

Experience in radiofrequency spectrum management, telecommunications, systems engineering, electromagnetic spectrum operations or related technical disciplines will be highly regarded.

Eligibility

Security Clearance:

Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance at “Negative Vetting Level 1”.

Mandatory Qualifications:

A role in this engineering occupation requires a Bachelor of Engineering from an Australian institution, or a qualification gained elsewhere, that satisfies the requirements of the Washington Accord for recognition as a Professional Engineer.

Getting to know the Department of Defence

The Department of Defence employs around 18,000 Australian Public Service (APS) employees. Defence APS employees work in a wide variety of critical roles, Australia wide, enabling our three services Navy, Army and Air Force, to do their job. Defence has a range of Australian Public Service (APS) career opportunities that offer interesting, challenging, and unique work. Our workforce includes administrative support, accountants, intelligence analysts, engineers, policy advisors, graphic designers, lawyers, social workers, IT specialists and contract managers to name a few. We offer a rewarding career that includes professional development, work-life balance, recognition, a flexible and supportive work environment and a diverse workforce. To find out more about a career with Defence please visit https://www.defence.gov.au/jobs-careers

📌 Spectrum Specialist (Canberra)
🏢 Department Of Defence
📍 Canberra