The key duties of the position include:
The Role
Contract Managers (CM) will work within System Program Offices or within the Procurement and Contracting Business Unit undertaking commercial and contract management work in support of SPO contract outcomes. The CM forms part of the Procurement and Contracting Function in undertaking activities across the procurement lifecycle.
An EL 1 Contract Manager is a senior leader responsible for delivering complex to very complex strategic procurement and contracting activities within an integrated Defence workforce. Operating under broad direction, they exercise a high degree of independence, applying deep knowledge of legislative frameworks, government decision?making processes, and Defence policy to provide expert advice, solve complex issues, and manage sensitive projects with strategic or operational impact. They lead teams, plan and manage resources, develop work plans and performance indicators, and drive continuous improvement in capability and processes.
The role requires strong stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to understand expectations, influence outcomes, and develop effective contracting methodologies. As a people leader, the EL 1 Contract Manager builds a high?performing, cohesive team and contributes to the ongoing professional development and improvement of their work area.
This role is eligible for an additional remuneration benefit known in Defence as a Building Defence Capability Payment (BDCP). This enables Defence to provide a premium, in addition to the base salary otherwise payable under the Defence Enterprise Collective Agreement (DECA), for positions in occupational disciplines/classifications that are critical to Defence capability. For further information, please contact the contact officer.
About our Team
Maritime Systainment Division (MSD) operates within the Naval Shipbuilding and Sustainment Group delivering in-service support to Navy and Army along with delivering new capability to Government. MSD is embarking on transformational change to establish the Maritime Sustainment Model and ensure the organisation is able to respond to emerging demands and strategic priorities.
We are seeking high performing candidates who thrive on new challenges and enjoy working in a fast-paced, complex environment. We promote an inclusive culture that echoes Defence values – service, courage, respect, integrity and excellence; and are committed to ensuring our people feel appreciated, participate fully, and have access to tailored professionalised pathways. We are flexible and agile in our approach to work, encourage our staff to have a healthy work life balance, and offer access to training and development opportunities and mentoring and coaching services.
You will enjoy Australian Public Service conditions that include an attractive salary package and flexible, family-friendly working arrangements. Our staff have access to flexible working hours with opportunities for part-time and home-based work.
Defence provides employees with a superannuation contribution of 15.4 per cent, higher than most industries, with the opportunity for you to make additional personal contributions. We are committed to the personal and professional development of our staff, and welcome interested candidates to apply to join our team.
Defence is committed to recruiting the right people, in the right jobs, at the right time - whether it is creating, acquiring or delivering Defence capability. Our greatest asset is our people.
Our Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is a highly capable and experienced commercial professional who brings strong leadership, strategic judgement and advanced contract management expertise to the EL 1 Contract Manager role. They can confidently lead a team, set strategic priorities, manage workflows and resources, and ensure high quality, timely outcomes across complex procurement and contracting activities. With a deep understanding of the Commonwealth Procurement Rules, Defence policies, legislation and commercial principles, they provide authoritative advice throughout the procurement lifecycle, including planning, tendering, contract formation and contract performance.
They demonstrate excellent analytical and risk management skills, able to identify, evaluate and mitigate commercial, legal and operational risks while ensuring robust compliance and value for money outcomes. The ideal candidate can review complex and commercially sensitive correspondence, submissions and contract change proposals, providing clear, high level advice to support informed decision making. They lead the development of innovative contracting strategies, resolve complex issues and disputes, and engage collaboratively with stakeholders and subject matter experts to deliver strategic procurement solutions aligned with broader Defence objectives.
As an EL 1 leader, they build and sustain productive working relationships, influence outcomes through strong communication and negotiation skills, and model Defence values in all interactions. They invest in developing their people by providing clear expectations, constructive feedback and mentoring, and they share their expertise to uplift capability across the team. The ideal candidate is proactive, adaptable and outcomes focused, committed to delivering high quality contracting services that support Defence’s mission and long term capability.
Eligibility
Security Clearance:
Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance at “Negative Vetting Level 1”.
Getting to know the Department of Defence
The Department of Defence employs around 18,000 Australian Public Service (APS) employees. Defence APS employees work in a wide variety of critical roles, Australia wide, enabling our three services Navy, Army and Air Force, to do their job. Defence has a range of Australian Public Service (APS) career opportunities that offer interesting, challenging, and unique work. Our workforce includes administrative support, accountants, intelligence analysts, engineers, policy advisors, graphic designers, lawyers, social workers, IT specialists and contract managers to name a few. We offer a rewarding career that includes professional development, work-life balance, recognition, a flexible and supportive work environment and a diverse workforce. To find out more about a career with Defence please visit https://www.defence.gov.au/jobs-careers