As back-to-back winners of the 2023 and 2024 Defence Innovator of the Year, DefendTex lives and breathes its values of integrity, innovation, professionalism, passion and risk taking. Our vision is to be a world leader in defence innovation, developing and delivering cutting‐edge technologies for military and law enforcement communities across the globe.
We now have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Explosives Safety, Environment & Compliance Manager in our Solid Rocket Motor Manufacturing Facility in Lang Lang, Victoria. This role offers the unique chance to shape Australia's sovereign defence manufacturing capability, ensuring safe, sustainable and compliant operations across one of the nation's most advanced energetic materials facilities—all while enjoying the lifestyle benefits of regional living within commuting distance of Melbourne's south‐eastern suburbs.
About The Role
As the Explosives Safety, Environment & Compliance Manager, you will oversee all aspects of explosive safety, environmental management and regulatory compliance at the facility. You'll lead the site's Major Hazard Facility (MHF) framework, manage explosives and environmental licenses, and ensure all operations meet Defence, WorkSafe and EPA requirements.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and maintain the facility's Safety Case and MHF compliance systems.
* Ensure compliance with explosives, WHS, and environmental regulatory frameworks.
* Oversee license applications, renewals, and audit responses.
* Manage risk assessments, HAZOPs, and process‐safety documentation.
* Coordinate environmental monitoring, waste management, and sustainability initiatives.
* Liaise with regulators, Defence, and government agencies.
* Train and mentor staff in safe work practices and regulatory awareness.
* Lead incident investigations and ensure effective corrective actions.
* Drive continuous improvement in safety and compliance systems.
About You
You are an experienced safety and compliance leader who thrives in high‐hazard or defence manufacturing environments. You bring strong technical knowledge, sound judgement and the ability to balance operational priorities with regulatory integrity.
Essential
* Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Science, with postgraduate qualification in Safety, Process Safety or Explosives desirable.
* Extensive experience in high‐hazard or explosives manufacturing industries.
* Proven track record managing compliance under MHF, WorkSafe and EPA frameworks.
* Strong understanding of explosives legislation and Defence safety policies.
* Demonstrated experience leading audits, investigations and regulatory engagement.
* Eligible to obtain and maintain an Australian Defence Security Clearance and Explosives License.
Desirable
* Experience in explosives or chemical manufacturing compliance management.
* Knowledge of environmental permitting and sustainability programs.
* Proven leadership of small safety and compliance teams.
Why Us?
* Competitive remuneration and leadership responsibility.
* Opportunity to lead safety and compliance for a national defence manufacturing capability.
* Exposure to advanced energetic materials and cutting‐edge production technology.
* Supportive, professional and mission‐driven culture.
* Based near Victoria's Bass Coast – enjoy coastal living with convenient access to Melbourne.
* Genuine career development within a growing Australian company.
At DefendTex, we are proud to promote diversity, inclusion and equal opportunity. We are committed to creating a workplace that values integrity, collaboration and continuous improvement while advancing Australia's sovereign defence capability.
#J-18808-Ljbffr