About Our Client
Our client is a mission-driven technology innovator delivering secure, scalable data management solutions for defence, government, and critical infrastructure sectors. With a strong foundation in the United States and rapid growth in Australia, the company is entering a major build-out phase, backed by a robust customer base and significant technical and financial support from its US-based parent. The Australian team is small but expanding rapidly, offering a unique opportunity to shape the local technical direction at a formative stage.
About the Role
Location: Canberra, ACT
As Principal Systems Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in architecting, deploying, and maintaining secure, high-performance IT environments for mission-critical defence and government projects. Reporting directly to the President of Bluestaq Australia, you will:
* Lead the design, implementation, and lifecycle management of secure Linux and Windows/Active Directory environments.
* Oversee production-grade, on-premises Kubernetes clusters, including deployment, scaling, monitoring, and troubleshooting.
* Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a growing team, fostering a culture of excellence and knowledge sharing.
* Ensure compliance with security frameworks (e.g., ASD Essential Eight), system hardening, and regular audits.
* Manage system maintenance, software installation, configuration, integrated testing, and troubleshooting.
* Liaise with internal and external stakeholders, providing technical updates and strategic recommendations.
* Support end users and resolve technical issues as needed.
The Successful Candidate
You are a seasoned IT professional with:
* 10+ years’ experience in system administration or IT infrastructure.
* Proven expertise in Linux and Windows/Active Directory environments (strong skills in one with willingness to learn the other considered).
* Hands-on experience with production Kubernetes clusters (on-premises).
* Strong scripting skills (e.g., PowerShell, Bash, Python).
* Solid networking knowledge (certifications such as CCNA/CCNP are a plus, but equivalent experience is valued; networking can be a “nice to have”).
* Demonstrated leadership and mentoring experience.
* Experience with security compliance and system hardening (ASD Essential Eight or similar).
* Australian citizenship and eligibility for NV2 security clearance (mandatory).
* Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required (limited and planned).
What’s on Offer
* Salary: $160,000–$200,000 + superannuation, based on experience and achievements.
* Annual performance bonus.
* Private health cover allowance.
* Health and wellness allowance.
* Professional development support.
* Salary sacrifice and packaging options.
* Five weeks annual leave.
* Additional leave in line with National Employment Standards and state legislation.
* Inclusive, supportive, and high-impact work environment.
* The chance to join early, shape the technical direction, and make a real impact at a critical growth stage.