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Job Title


Principal Project Engineer


Company : Downer Professional Services


Location : Canberra, Australia


Created : 2025-11-29


Job Type : Full Time


Job Description

Project Principal Engineer Join our Downer Professional Services team and play a key role in delivering complex defence and national security projects that safeguard Australias future. Downer Professional Services is comprised of two business units, our Technical, Advisory, and Capability consulting practice and Team Downer, a major service partner to Defence. Together, we are a multi-disciplinary advisory and delivery partner of choice for our clients in Defence and National Security. Base pay range A$138,000.00/yr - A$174,000.00/yr What Youll Do This role offers a broad scope, with key role responsibilities including: Lead and deliver high-level project briefings to senior Defence stakeholders. Coordinate engineering, cyber, and safety working groups and major systems reviews. Oversee design certification, engineering governance, and risk management. Drive stakeholder engagement to progress tasks and maintain strong relationships. Review and improve engineering contract deliverables and project artefacts. What Youll Bring Strong background in Systems, Electrical, Communications, or Underwater Sensors Engineering. Proven ability to identify and mitigate technical risks. Excellent communication and leadership skills to influence and manage teams. Experience in CASG/NSSG projects and the Defence Capability Lifecycle. Experience working in the maritime domain or Navy projects. Experience completing Detailed Design Review or other Major Systems Reviews. Coupled with an Engineering qualification that satisfies the requirements of the Washington Accord for recognition as a Professional Engineer. Due to the nature of the work, you are required to currently hold and maintain a minimum Negative Vetting 1 or higher Security clearance as required by the Commonwealth. In some instances, compliance with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) requirements may also be an inherent requirement. Why Downer Professional Services At Downer Professional Services, were not just a workplace - were a business dedicated to contributing to the shaping of the future of defence in Australia. As the countrys only sovereign prime, were committed to making a real difference in protecting Australias interests. What it means to belong at Downer Professional Services Meaningful work: Help to deliver critical Defence projects that protect Australia and shape its future. Professional development: Access career mapping, accelerated learning programs, and shared learning through our Communities of Practice. Great perks: Enjoy discounts on healthcare, retail, vehicles, and more through Perks@Downer. Veteran support: Benefit from initiatives like up to 20 days of Reservist Leave to stay connected post-service. More than anything, youll bring a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and a commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes for our clients. We want your work to matter and so do we. With over 26,000 people across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific, our team is made up of individuals with unique perspectives, backgrounds, and ideas. We know that diversity makes us stronger and we actively celebrate it through our commitment to inclusion and belonging. Were committed to building a team that reflects the diverse communities we serve and we welcome people of all ages, genders, sexual orientations, cultures, abilities, and lived experiences. We especially encourage applications from those whose voices have traditionally been underrepresented in our industry, including women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, Mori and Pasifika Peoples, veterans, people with disability, and neurodivergent individuals. Even if your experience doesnt align perfectly with this role, wed still like to hear from you. If it feels like the right fit, apply - potential counts, and so do you. As a WORK180 Endorsed Employer, we support flexibility that works for your life, inclusive leadership that values your voice, and equitable access to opportunity so you can do your best work and bring your whole self to it. If you need support or adjustments through the recruitment process, just let us know, were here to help you put your best foot forward. Seniority level Associate Employment type Full-time Job function Defense and Space Manufacturing #J-18808-Ljbffr