The key duties of the position include:

The Role

As a Project Manager within the Strategic High-Frequency Communications (SHFC) program, and Joint Project 09101 Phase 01 (JP9101) you will manage complex project activities across the capability lifecycle. You will be accountable for planning, coordinating, and delivering project outcomes in accordance with Defence governance frameworks, policies, and standards.

Key responsibilities include:

- Managing schedule, risk, budget, and resources;
- Preparing briefings, submissions, and reports;
- And ensuring compliance with legislative and regulatory requirements.

This role requires strong stakeholder engagement skills, the ability to communicate with influence, and sound judgement in applying project management methodologies. You will contribute to strategic planning, resolve issues through analysis of alternatives, and develop strategies to achieve project objectives.

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 Strategic High-Frequency Communications (SHFC) Team delivers critical communications capabilities to the Australian Defence Force (ADF), combining procurement, sustainment, and innovation to support operational readiness.



The team operates collaboratively across Defence and industry, ensuring alignment with the Capability Manager’s objectives and broader organisational goals.

With a focus on achieving outcomes specified in Materiel Agreements, the team ensures delivery within defined budgets, schedules, and performance standards. Employing best practice project management and governance frameworks, the SHFC Team prioritises efficiency, effectiveness, and value for money while meeting contractual and policy obligations.

The team fosters a culture of communication and collaboration, integrating expertise across technical, operational, and strategic domains. By maintaining strong partnerships with Defence customers, Capability Acquisition & Sustainment Group (CASG) elements, and industry stakeholders, the SHFC Team ensures seamless delivery of enhanced HF capabilities that meet Defence requirements, support mission success, and drive continuous improvement.

Our Ideal Candidate

Our ideal candidate has experience in project management within Defence or complex technical environments. You should demonstrate the ability to manage multiple priorities, interpret policy,



and lead project activities to achieve defined outcomes. Attributes such as initiative, analytical thinking, and effective stakeholder engagement are essential.

Experience in project planning, risk management, and governance frameworks will be highly regarded. Sound financial administration skills, including experience supporting budget management, expenditure tracking and financial reporting activities. Eligibility for a security clearance and strong communication skills are critical to success in this role.

Eligibility

Security Clearance:

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

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 career 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

📌 Project Manager (Canberra)
🏢 Department Of Defence
📍 Canberra