Leading Federal Government Department12 Month Contract + 2 x 12 Month Extensions Canberra, ACT with hybrid workingEL2 Principal Security Engineer - Federal Government | NV1 Required
Your new company
HAYS Canberra is partnering with a major Federal Government agency operating within the National Security domain. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced EL2 Principal Security Engineer to join a high performing technical team. You will apply specialist expertise across key cybersecurity tools, platforms, and processes to support the delivery of ongoing and future security uplift initiatives.
Your new role
As the Principal Security Engineer, you will lead technical improvements designed to stabilise, secure, and uplift the agency's existing ICT environment. You will ensure critical systems remain supported while contributing to a significant program of work across cyber sustainment and within the critical Infrastructure section, you will provide high level technical leadership, guidance, and hands‑on expertise across Application Control, Linux Infrastructure, Privileged Access Management, and PKI Certificate Management. You will also collaborate across Cybersecurity, Projects, and Operational branches to drive effective outcomes for multiple platforms and infrastructure environments.
What you'll need to succeed
To be successful, you will demonstrate experience in:
Essential Skills
Strong background in Linux / RHEL / Red Hat Satellite / IDM / FA Policy D / OpenShift / Ansible AutomationExperience with Application Control (Carbon Black, WDAC)Expertise in Privileged Access Management (MFA, RSA, Delinea Secret Server)Strong understanding of Active Directory Certificate Services (PKI)
Desirable Skills
VMware Virtualisation, Citrix, and PowerShell ScriptingOpenShift Containerisation adoption or migration experience (highly desirable)C# .NET Development, including TFS/DevOps (highly desirable)Experience with Nutanix AOS/AHV, Hybrid AOS/ESXi, and Prism Central (highly desirable)Microsoft Windows Server platform management and patching experience (highly desirable)
Other Requirements
Excellent written and verbal communication skillsAustralian Citizenship and an active NV1 Security Clearance are candidates meeting this requirement can be considered.Interstate candidates can be considered if they are open for hybrid work or if the role is not filled by a Canberra based candidate.
What you'll get in returnAttractive hourly rate with weekly payFull time, onsite role within a Canberra based Federal Government departmentOpportunity to contribute to high priority National Security programsLong term contract with options for multiple extensions
What you need to do now
We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply.If this sounds like the ideal next step in your career, click 'Apply Now' to submit your updated CV.
Applications close: Tuesday, 22 February 2026 at 11:59pm