Introduction
* Lead and grow a specialist AI/ML discipline, delivering state-of-the-art engineered solutions for real operational problems.
* Join a professional, supportive team delivering transformative innovation for Australian Defence.
* Access competitive remuneration, flexible working arrangements, and a healthy work–life balance.
Seeking a motivated Senior Computer Scientist / Software Engineer to provide technical leadership and people management across our Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) capability.
This role will lead Swordfish Computing's AI/ML discipline across multiple Defence-focused projects, acting as a trusted technical advisor, mentor, leader, and Defence-facing representative. You will shape both delivery execution and the evolution of our AI/ML capability and technical direction.
Working closely with the CTO, project leads, and Defence stakeholders, you will ensure AI/ML solutions are technically robust, fit for purpose, and aligned with customer needs and company priorities.
Description
About Us
At Swordfish, we deliver transformative innovation through the integration of STEM disciplines and deep strategic and operational Defence knowledge at the cutting edge of Australian Defence and space research. Over 25 years, Swordfish has established a reputation for innovative R&D and is a preferred and trusted technology partner.
We offer opportunities for the right candidates to work amongst high-calibre, passionate and supportive teammates, employing Agile software engineering practices, modern tool stacks, and advanced AI/ML technologies to create solutions that deliver tactical and strategic advantage to Australian Defence.
At Swordfish, our people are our highest priority. We recognise and invest in the unique strengths each individual brings, and we act with integrity to support one another to perform at our best. We foster an open and honest working environment built on collaboration and trust; one that welcomes new ideas, values alternative perspectives, and encourages better ways of doing things. We are passionate about what we do, and we welcome new team members who want to contribute, grow, and make an impact.
What we are looking for
A motivated Senior Software Engineer / Computer Scientist with a broad background in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, and a strong commitment to modern software engineering practices. You are passionate about building and leading high-performing engineering teams that deliver robust, maintainable, production-quality software in close partnership with Defence researchers and stakeholders.
You enjoy leading teams that solve technically challenging problems across domains such as aerospace systems, combat and mission systems, electronic warfare, and trusted autonomy. You value working closely with clients and Defence stakeholders to shape technical direction and future capability, ensuring solutions are fit-for-purpose, and are executed to a high professional standard..
You will empower teams to deliver next-generation Defence capability by combining AI/ML approaches (including Generative AI, CNNs, NLP, LLMs, and computer vision) with rigorous software engineering practices, including architecture, test strategy, DevSecOps considerations, and disciplined delivery through Agile engineering methodology. In this role, you will work consultatively with your team, leveraging their deep expertise to shape sound technical decisions, while remaining accountable for delivery quality, schedules, budgets and stakeholder expectations.
We value people who enjoy working with others to solve technical challenges. We seek problem-solvers committed to continuous learning and improvement, individually and as part of a team, who collaborate generously and support those around them. We care about helping each other and our clients achieve success.
What you will do
As the AI/ML Discipline Lead, you will:
Discipline & People Leadership
* Lead and develop a growing team of AI/ML and software engineers
* Conduct performance reviews, mentoring, coaching, and career planning
* Support recruitment and growth of the AI/ML discipline
* Foster a strong culture of collaboration, technical excellence, and continuous learning
* Demonstrate the values and behaviours of the company and its unique culture
Technical Advice
* Help define engineering standards and best practices across AI/ML and software delivery
* Guide applied research direction through the advice of senior engineers and specialists in the team, ensuring solutions are fit-for-purpose for Defence delivery
* Review AI/ML models, designs, and implementations ensuring they are fit-for-purpose and appropriate for delivery into Defence environments
Defence Engagement & Strategy
* Act as the discipline interface to Defence clients, supporting trusted and effective engagement
* Maintain strong, authentic relationships with Defence stakeholders and Swordfish senior leaders
* Provide AI/ML technical oversight across projects
* Lead AI/ML aspects of proposals, bids, and R&D roadmaps
* Present discipline capability and delivery approach to senior Defence stakeholders
* Contribute to long-term AI/ML capability planning in partnership with the CTO
Skills And Experiences
Essential Skills and Experience
* Proven experience leading multi-disciplinary technical and research teams,
* Demonstrated expertise in AI/ML, including the ability to oversee model selection, validation, and delivery
* Strong software engineering background, with high standards for design, quality, testing, and maintainability
* Experience mentoring and managing engineers, including performance and career development
* Experience leading AI/ML contributions to bids, proposals, or client engagements
* Ability to communicate complex technical concepts to senior stakeholders
* Commitment to ongoing self-improvement and professional development.
Desirable Skills
* Experience delivering AI/ML software solutions in Defence or other regulated environments
* Exposure to large language models, NLP, computer vision, or autonomous systems
* Experience with a variety of software development environments and computer languages
* Experience deploying AI/ML solutions in production environments (e.g. containers, CI/CD)
* Masters or PhD in a relevant field
Qualifications
* Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related discipline
* Australian Citizenship
o Candidates must be eligible to hold and maintain an Australian Defence Security Clearance. Please see the following URL for eligibility requirements -
Benefits
* Interesting and rewarding work
* Supportive management and friendly, experienced team members
* 37.5 hour working week with flexible work arrangements and work-life balance
* Support for your professional development
* Relocation support if you live interstate
* Attractive remuneration