About the Department of Foreign Affairs and TradeThe Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is responsible for managing Australia's international presence, including the delivery of secure and functional overseas property assets.
The Overseas Property Office and Services Division (OPO) oversees the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of DFAT's overseas estate.
To support the delivery of a growing portfolio of capital works and refurbishment projects, DFAT seeks to engage an experienced EL1-level construction project manager/s to provide project management services.
The Opportunity
The position will offer extensive collaboration with internal and external stakeholders, including senior executives, other government agencies, host governments, international consultants, and contractors.
You will be able to apply advanced project management expertise, strategic foresight, and the ability to navigate complex international environments to deliver secure, fit-for-purpose infrastructure that meets Australia's diplomatic needs.
The position offers professional autonomy, scope for leadership, and the ability to shape outcomes.
You will be part of a supportive and high-performing team with a strong focus on collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
The RoleThe EL1 Project Manager plays a critical role in delivering international property projects that support the strategic objectives of the Overseas Property Office and Services (OPO).
The role is responsible for leading and managing the planning, design, and delivery of complex overseas property projects, ensuring alignment with departmental priorities and compliance with government policies and standards.
The Project Manager will provide leadership and oversight across all project phases, managing stakeholder expectations, contracts, budgets and risk mitigation strategies to ensure successful project outcomes.
You will:
* Lead the end-to-end management of international property projects, including planning, procurement, contract management, delivery and handover
* Engage and manage stakeholder relationships across government, industry and international partners to ensure project objectives are met
* Develop and implement project plans, schedules and budgets, ensuring compliance with departmental and government financial frameworks
* Manage third-party contractors and consultants to ensure high-quality project delivery aligned with requirements and time frames
* Identify and manage project risks, developing mitigation strategies and ensuring compliance with governance requirements
* Provide expert advice and reporting on project progress, financial performance and risk management to senior executives and stakeholders
* Ensure all projects adhere to security, environmental and operational requirements relevant to overseas diplomatic properties
* Lead and mentor junior staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team culture
The Ideal PersonThe ideal candidate for the EL1 Project Manager role will be a highly capable and experienced professional with a strong background in leading complex government and commercial property projects.
They will possess exceptional leadership, project management, and stakeholder engagement skills, with a proven ability to deliver high-quality outcomes in dynamic and challenging environments, particularly within international or secure settings.
They will demonstrate strategic thinking, sound judgement, and the ability to manage competing priorities across diverse stakeholder groups.
The candidate will be confident in navigating government frameworks, including procurement and contract management, and will bring a collaborative and solutions-focused approach to project delivery.
Qualifications & Requirements
* A relevant tertiary qualification in project management, construction, engineering, or a related field
* Minimum of NV1 security clearance is required.
Salary / Rate
* $90/hr - $110/hr + 12% Super
* 12-month labour contract with 2 x 12-month extensions
* Canberra-based role
Application informationApplications close Friday, 9 January. Shortlisting will commence after the role has closed.
How to ApplyTo apply online, please click on the appropriate link.
Alternatively, for a confidential discussion, please contact Sarah Tamasi on quoting ref no
HorizonOne is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce and we encourage applications from people of all cultures, capabilities and backgrounds.