Help Shape the Future of Software Engineering and AI Capability at ATS

Australian Target Systems (ATS) is seeking an experienced Agentic Systems Architect to establish and lead our AI and agentic software engineering capability.

This is a rare opportunity to build capability from the ground up within a specialised Defence technology organisation where software interacts with electronics, sensors and physical systems to deliver real-world outcomes.

Working directly with senior leadership, you will assess our current software engineering environment, identify high-value opportunities, and design and implement practical AI-enabled solutions that improve engineering effectiveness, productivity and business outcomes.

This is a hands-on architecture and delivery role. We are seeking someone who can move beyond strategy and actively design, build and operationalise solutions that create lasting organisational value.

What's on Offer

- 6-month contract engagement
- Remote, hybrid or onsite work arrangements available
- Attractive remuneration commensurate with experience and capability
- Significant influence over the future direction of software engineering and AI adoption at ATS
- Direct engagement with senior leadership and key stakeholders
- Opportunity to build capability that will continue delivering value long after the engagement concludes

A key measure of success will be your ability to mentor and upskill a small internal team, ensuring ATS can independently maintain and extend the capability established through this engagement.

About ATS

Australian Target Systems (ATS) is a uniquely specialised Australian Defence business and the nation's most experienced provider of live fire target systems. For more than 60 years, ATS has supported the Australian Defence Force by delivering, integrating and maintaining complex training systems that prepare soldiers for operational readiness.

What makes ATS different is the direct connection between our work and Australia's Defence capability. Every Australian soldier deployed on active combat operations over the past 25 years has trained on systems installed by ATS. Our team combines technical expertise, Defence-sector experience and a strong sense of purpose to deliver trusted solutions in high-consequence environments.

At ATS, software does more than move information. We design and integrate software, electronics and electromechanical systems that sense activity,



coordinate actions and produce real-world outcomes. As we continue to innovate, we are investing in artificial intelligence, intelligent automation and agentic systems, creating a unique chance to help shape how these technologies are adopted and embedded across the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

- Assess ATS's current software development lifecycle, engineering practices and technology landscape,
- Design, implement and operationalise AI, agentic and automation solutions that improve software delivery and business outcomes,
- Develop architectural frameworks, standards and governance models that support the safe and scalable adoption of AI technologies,
- Provide expert guidance on solution options, architecture decisions, technical trade-offs and future-state technology design,
- Identify opportunities to improve engineering efficiency, productivity and software quality through AI-enabled approaches,
- Establish frameworks, guardrails and best practices for AI-assisted software development and intelligent automation,
- Collaborate with business and technical stakeholders to translate requirements into practical, scalable solutions,
- Evaluate emerging AI technologies and identify opportunities to generate business value across the organisation,
- Lead capability uplift through mentoring, coaching, training and structured knowledge transfer activities. Develop internal capability and establish sustainable practices that enable ATS personnel to independently maintain and extend AI and agentic solutions following completion of the engagement,
- Develop implementation roadmaps, technical documentation and recommendations for future capability growth,
- Ensure solutions align with organisational security, intellectual property, assurance and governance requirements, and
- Build, mentor and develop a small team or community of practice focused on AI-assisted software engineering, automation and agentic systems.

About You

ESSENTIAL

- Australian Citizen




- Eligible to obtain and maintain an Australian Government Defence Security Clearance if required
- Significant experience in Solution Architecture, Software Architecture, Platform Engineering or similar senior technical roles
- Demonstrated experience delivering AI-enabled, automation or digital transformation initiatives
- Strong software engineering background, including systems integration, APIs, cloud technologies and enterprise platforms
- Experience developing technology standards, governance frameworks and engineering practices
- Excellent stakeholder engagement, communication and influencing skills
- Demonstrated experience mentoring technical teams and building sustainable organisational capability

DESIRABLE

- Experience designing or implementing agentic systems
- Experience developing AI-assisted software engineering practices and operating models
- Experience in Defence, Government or other regulated environments
- Existing Australian Government Security Clearance
- Experience leading organisation-wide technology transformation initiatives

Why Join Us?

- Help shape the future of software engineering and AI capability within ATS
- Build intelligent systems that influence real-world outcomes, not just digital experiences
- Work at the intersection of AI, software, electronics and physical systems
- Apply emerging technologies in complex, high-consequence environments
- Collaborate directly with senior leadership and help define future ways of working
- Join a purpose-driven organisation supporting Australian Defence capability
- Work alongside experienced engineers, technical specialists and industry professionals
- Enjoy flexible working arrangements, including remote, hybrid and onsite options

How to Apply

Please submit:

- A current resume (maximum two pages); and
- A cover letter outlining your suitability for the role and relevant experience delivering AI-enabled solutions, architecture outcomes or technology transformation initiatives.

Applications for this role close 11:59pm, Sunday 29 November 2026.

Interviews may commence before the closing date so applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible.

ATS is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity and encourages applications from people of diverse backgrounds and experiences. We are committed to creating a workplace that values inclusion, innovation and respect.

📌 Agentic Systems Architect (6-Month Engagement) - Remote (Sydney)
🏢 Australian Target Systems
📍 Sydney