Senior Software Engineer (Developer) – EL1 EquivalentRate Guide: $140 – $190 per hour Location: Canberra, ACT Contract Duration: 12 months Extensions: 1 x 12-month extension Start Date: 17 August 2026 Maximum Hours: 40 hours per week Security Clearance: Active TSPV required (non-negotiable) Working Arrangements: Hybrid (within standard hours 7am–7pm, Mon–Fri)Job DetailsWe are seeking a Senior Software Engineer (EL1 equivalent) to deliver high-impact capability within a secure, high-assurance environment.This role operates under broad direction and requires technical leadership, strong engineering discipline, and deep experience across secure software development lifecycles. You will be responsible for building, maintaining, and enhancing complex systems, while ensuring alignment with security, performance, and architectural standards.This is not a standard development role — it requires SFIA Level 5 capability, meaning ownership across design, build, integration, and continuous improvement of software systems.Key ResponsibilitiesInterpret technical specifications and solution designs into robust software solutionsLead software development activities across the full SDLCBuild, maintain, and enhance applications in secure environmentsDevelop and execute testing frameworks and validation processesProduce and maintain high-quality technical documentationProvide technical leadership and guidance to engineering teamsDrive system integration, CI/CD, and automation practicesContribute to standards, policies, and engineering governancePerform impact analysis and manage design trade-offs across systemsEssential CriteriaCandidates must demonstrate capability aligned to SFIA Level 4–5 across:Programming / Software Development (Level 5)Software Design (Level 4)Specialist Advice (Level 4)Systems Design (Level 5)Systems Integration & Build (Level 5)Essential Technical SkillsStrong experience in Java software developmentStrong experience in Python scriptingExperience with C++Experience working in Linux/UNIX environmentsStrong experience with SQL and data manipulationExperience with systems integration, CI/CD, and automationExperience in secure or cyber environmentsDesirable CriteriaExperience with Cloudera, Apache Airflow, SplunkExperience with Azure / cloud environmentsExperience with OpenSearch / ElasticsearchExperience with Atlassian suite (Jira, Confluence, etc.)Experience with Linux/Windows administrationExposure to UX/UI design principlesExperience working with defence or intelligence-related systemsMandatory Requirements (Non-Negotiable)Australian CitizenshipActive TSPV security clearanceWillingness to undergo Organisational Suitability Assessment (OSA)Ability to operate in a highly secure, classified environmentWorking ArrangementsHybrid working model in CanberraWork within standard business hours (7am–7pm window)Onsite presence required based on project needsNo work on public holidays or shutdown periods