Join Empirical Solutions – Data Observability Engineer
Empirical Solutions is seeking an experienced Data Observability Engineer to support Army's digital network integration and test & evaluation activities. Based onsite in Canberra (ACT), this long-term contract role offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of data engineering, DevSecOps, and complex Defence ICT systems, contributing directly to interoperability, experimentation, and integration outcomes.
This is a hands-on technical role suited to a highly capable engineer who enjoys building, observing, and optimising data-driven systems in secure, mission-focused environments.
About the Role
As a Data Observability Engineer, you will play a critical role in the design, development, implementation, and sustainment of data management, analytics, and observability tooling within a secure systems integration and validation environment.
You will lead the development and maturation of data observability frameworks and processes, enabling effective digital integration testing, experimentation, and risk reduction activities. Working as a technical subject matter expert within a small, highly skilled team, you will contribute to architectural design, system integration, and operational support across Land, Joint, and Coalition capability interfaces.
This role blends data engineering, Linux systems engineering, networking, DevSecOps, and innovation, and requires close collaboration with engineers, validation teams, and Defence stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
* Design, build, and implement data observability and analytics tooling to support integration testing, experimentation, and validation activities
* Develop and maintain data observability practices and procedures to support test & evaluation, risk reduction, and concept demonstration
* Analyse and optimise data capture, monitoring, and exploitation across representative networks and systems, including root cause analysis
* Provide technical SME advice and support to engineering and validation teams
* Contribute to the design and integration of hardware and software solutions within secure environments
* Support DevSecOps and automation activities, including CI/CD pipeline integration
* Provide technical support to exercises, trials, and experimentation activities
* Deliver just-in-time training and mentor Defence personnel during activities
* Produce high-quality technical documentation, reports, and post-activity assessments
* Provide integration advice to support the delivery of a digitally integrated combat system within Joint and Coalition environments
* Operate in accordance with Defence policies, WH&S requirements, and professional conduct standards
Essential Experience & Skills
We are seeking professionals with:
* Extensive experience in data observability and analytics (e.g. ELK / Elastic Stack, NetFlow)
* Advanced Linux systems expertise, particularly Red Hat-based environments
* Proven experience with DevSecOps practices (CI/CD pipelines, GitLab)
* Strong proficiency in scripting and programming languages (e.g. Python, Bash, PowerShell, Java, C/C++)
* Experience developing and integrating APIs
* Strong understanding of networking, storage, and virtualisation technologies (e.g. KVM, VMware)
* Experience supporting Defence or Government projects
* Ability to work autonomously as a technical SME within a small team
* Strong communication skills and the ability to produce clear technical documentation
Desirable Experience & Qualifications
* Industry certifications in Data Engineering (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud)
* Certifications in observability and monitoring tools (Datadog, Prometheus, Grafana, New Relic)
* Tertiary or vocational qualifications in data engineering, analytics, IT, or systems engineering
* 10+ years' experience in data engineering or analytics roles
* Exposure to systems engineering and Defence test & evaluation activities
* Experience working in Agile delivery environments
Security, Location & Engagement
* Active Security Clearance (mandatory)
* Australian Citizenship required
* Location: Onsite – Canberra, ACT
* Some interstate and potential international travel may be required
Why Empirical Solutions?
Empirical Solutions is a veteran-owned Australian company delivering trusted engineering, cyber, and digital services across Defence and National Security. We pride ourselves on being people-first, outcomes-focused, and mission-driven.
We offer:
Defence reservist support
Paid parental and partner leave
Professional membership reimbursement
Professional Development Allowance
Health and Wellbeing Allowance
Mentoring and career development
Opportunities to work on complex, nationally significant Defence capability