The Role
We are seeking people across multiple software engineering disciplines who want to be at the forefront of innovation and want to work alongside experts in a wide variety of fields. OE software developers typically work in multi-disciplinary teams responsible for the design and development of capabilities that meet ASD's mission needs. You will work alongside technical experts and be supported by technical and non-technical leadership to solve complex and interesting problems, and contribute to capabilities that have real-world impact.
Multiple vacancies are available for candidates interested in a range of software engineering disciplines with the flexibility to apply for each discipline to achieve a range of exciting and evolving mission needs.
Capability Software Developer
Positions only available in Perth and Sydney.
Capability Software Developers are responsible for automating critical ASD signals intelligence capabilities on an enterprise scale, employing novel techniques to push the boundaries of what is possible.
We are looking for applicants with demonstrated experience in Python, containerisation technologies, networking and performance monitoring.
Mobile Software Developer
Positions only available in Perth and Sydney.
Mobile Software Developers build secure, high-performance applications that operate at the heart of Australia's national security mission. This is not just about creating interfaces, it is about engineering robust mobile solutions that integrate deeply with iOS and Android internals to deliver cutting-edge capabilities.
From low-level debugging to crafting intuitive mobile-first designs, we are looking for applicants with experience in optimizing performance at the OS level, implementing advanced security features, and leveraging native frameworks to create seamless user experiences.
Offensive Cyber Software Developer
Positions only available in Brisbane and Canberra.
Offensive Cyber Software Developers tackle complex and unusual projects to protect Australia and its national interests. This involves designing and developing robust applications and tools, targeting a wide range of operating systems and platforms.
We are looking for applicants who are interested in software development, have a focus on networking or operating system internals and can use their technical and communication skills to drive mission outcomes.
Software Engineer
Positions only available in Brisbane and Perth.
Software Engineers help build innovative capabilities that deliver real-world impact. They develop software-enabled capabilities to prevent network exploitation and deliver network effects. We want people who enjoy exploring the inner workings of operating systems across a variety of platforms.
We are looking for applicants who are interested in developing bespoke software products within talented and highly motivated teams, working alongside vulnerability researchers to understand device behaviours, developing efficient low-level software solutions, and who can think critically and are motivated to continually learn and develop their skills.
Automation Software Developer
Positions only available in Brisbane and Canberra.
Automation Software Developers create, maintain and administer systems that enable the analysis of malware at scale. This involves automating and enhancing manual processes and analytic workflows.
We are looking for applicants who can meet challenges with curiosity and determination. Successful applicants will work with reverse engineers to understand how malicious binaries behave and to develop innovative solutions to support the analysis of malware.
Key Duties:
ASD 4
Perform coding, testing, reviewing, correcting and documenting of moderately complex programs and program modifications using supplied specifications, standards and tools.
Contribute to the work of the team and continuous improvement.
Acquire and apply knowledge of intermediate domain technologies.
Acquire and apply knowledge of relevant development technologies.
Build and sustain effective relationships with team members and actively participate in team work and group activities.
Listen to internal and external stakeholders to meets needs and expectations.
Recommend solutions to issues impacting on the achievement of desired outcomes.
Seek advice and guidance on more complex activities.
ASD 5
Perform coding, testing, reviewing, correcting, and documenting of moderately complex programs and program modifications using supplied specifications, standards and tools.
Contribute to the work of the team and continuous improvement.
Acquire and apply knowledge of advanced domain technologies.
Acquire and apply knowledge and experience in development technologies.
Build and sustain effective working relationships with team members and actively participate in team work and group activities.
Engage with relevant stakeholders and understand their expectations and concerns.
Collate options and recommend solutions to issues that impact on the achievement of desired outcomes.
Seek advice and guidance on more complex activities.
ASD 6
Accountable for designing, coding, testing, reviewing, correcting and documenting large or complex programs and program modifications according to supplied specifications, standards and tools.
Accountable for accurate completion of work to agreed quality standards, share own expertise with others and guide and mentor less experienced employees.
Develop specialist knowledge of domain technologies and advise on their application.
Utilise knowledge and experience in development technologies to contribute to continuous process improvement.
Build and sustain effective relationship with team members and actively participate in team work and group activities.
Work collaboratively with stakeholders and subject matter experts to progress ICT software engineering business activities.
Design and implement solutions to issues impacting on the achievement of desired outcomes.
Evaluate activities and processes for compliance with ICT software development standards and processes.
ASD EL1
Accountable for designing, coding, testing, correcting, reviewing, documenting and releasing large or very complex programs and program modifications according to supplied specifications, standards and tools.
Accountable for accurate completion of work within timeframes and quality requirements, share own expertise with others and guide and mentor less experienced employees.
Has expertise in domain technologies and can generate new concepts within that domain.
Utilise knowledge and experience to consider ramifications of issues and longer term impact of own work and work area to meet business objectives.
Work collaboratively with stakeholders and other subject matter experts to progress ICT software engineering business activities.
Motivate and mentor teams, aligning complementary skills and allocate resources in a manner that delivers results.
Analyse very complex ICT software engineering issues, applying expertise to identify and implement courses of action.
Assess and evaluate software development strategy, initiatives, projects, policy and procedures.
Further information can be found at: I'm changing my career | Australian Signals Directorate ).
About our Team
ASD's Operational Engineering (OE) Branch is comprised of high-performing, dynamic, multidisciplinary teams committed to enabling ASD's missions in unique and exciting ways. Our staff sit at the forefront of innovation, and support mission requirements through their specialist skills including software development, software exploitation and vulnerability research, and their knowledge of information security.
Our technical specialists are responsible for grappling with complex and unusual problems to protect Australia and its national interests. In a strong team environment, you will work alongside other talented technical experts supported by technical and non-technical leadership. You will play a pivotal role in developing and delivering critical capabilities in support of ASD activities, ensuring capabilities are fit-for-purpose and responsive to sensitive and time-critical requirements.
ASD's Technical Threats and Visibility Branch (TTV) detects adversaries targeting or exploiting Australian networks by analysing their technical tools and tradecraft. TTV uses this deep understanding to defend and disrupt malicious activity that threatens Australia's cyber security.
Application Closing Date: Thursday, 22 January 2026.
For further information, please review the Information Packs on
Reference:
ASD/00331/26 – ASD 4, 5 & 6 Software Developer Specialist
ASD/00352/26 – ASD EL1 Software Developer Specialist