We are seeking an experienced Area Manager for the RAAF Base Wagga to lead the teams to safely deliver Defence construction packages, driving program, cost, quality, and safety outcomes in partnership with the Construction Manager.
At Downer we plan, create and sustain. Downer is the leading provider of integrated services in Australia and New Zealand. Through trusted relationships and world leading insight we work closely with our customers to design, build and sustain assets, infrastructure, and facilities.
The Riverina Redevelopment Joint Venture is a 50/50 joint venture between CPB Contractors and Downer to undertake major upgrades and replacement of existing infrastructure and facilities to support Defence capability for the next 30 years.
The proposed project consists of a program of works across three Department of Defence establishments including:Albury Wodonga Military Area (including North, South & East Bandiana, Latchford Barracks, Wirlinga)Blamey Barracks (Kapooka)RAAF Base WaggaThe proposed capital investment of $1.7b will incorporate a variety of elements including:Construction of new messing and living in accommodationConstruction of new training facilitiesRefurbishment and upgrading of existing buildingsRemedial works and upgrades to infrastructure servicesFor further information please visit the Riverina Redevelopment Joint Venture Website Downer in the NSW Riverina - Downer Group Australia
The Opportunity
As Area Manager, you will lead and coordinate multidisciplinary construction teams to safely deliver packages of work on complex Defence infrastructure projects. Acting on behalf of the Construction Manager, you will drive program, cost, quality, and safety outcomes while maintaining strong relationships with clients and subcontractors specifically for the RAAF Base Wagga.
What you'll doPlan, coordinate, and manage construction activities to deliver work packages on time, within budget, and to specificationLead site teams and subcontractors to ensure compliance with safety, quality, environmental, and project management systemsManage short-term construction planning, sequencing, and risk mitigation across your allocated areaOversee subcontractor performance, including procurement, supervision, progress claims, and variationsMonitor and report on program, cost, quality, and risk, escalating issues and implementing corrective actions as requiredWhat you'll bringProven experience as a Senior Project Engineer or equivalent, managing construction work packages on large projectsStrong technical understanding of construction methodologies, temporary works, and quality systemsDemonstrated leadership capability with experience managing multidisciplinary site teamsSolid commercial acumen, including cost control, risk management, and forward planningRelevant tertiary qualification in engineering or construction (degree or equivalent), with Defence or complex infrastructure experience desirableThis role is based at RAAF Base, Wagga Wagga. Relocation assistance is available for the successful candidate. Applicants must be Australian citizens and willing to obtain a Defence security clearance.
Spotless Management Services Pty Ltd (a Downer Company) is delivering the works as part of a joint venture with CPB Contractors Pty Ltd. Accordingly we will share your Personal Information, to the extent necessary, for the purpose of recruitment for the joint venture with CPB Contractors Pty Ltd who are required to handle that information in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth).
Why Downer?At Downer, we plan, create, and sustain essential public services across Australia and New Zealand. From hospitals to data centres and defence partnerships, we manage critical infrastructure that keeps communities thriving.
What It Means to Belong at Downer
We're proud of our high-performance culture and commitment to diversity, offering:Training and development to support and diversify your career.With 30% of vacancies filled internally you'll find real opportunities to advance your career.Perks@Downer: healthcare discounts, great savings on retail purchases, car purchases and much more.Employee Assistance Program: professional support for you and your family when you need it most.You want your work to matter and so do we. With over 26,000 people across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific, our team is made up of individuals with unique perspectives, backgrounds, and ideas.
We know that diversity makes us stronger and we actively celebrate it through our commitment to inclusion and belonging.
We're committed to building a team that reflects the diverse communities we serve and we welcome people of all ages, genders, sexual orientations, cultures, abilities, and lived experiences. We especially encourage applications from those whose voices have traditionally been underrepresented in our industry, including women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, Māori and Pasifika Peoples, veterans, people with disability, and neurodivergent individuals. Even if your experience doesn't align perfectly with this role, we'd still like to hear from you. If it feels like the right fit, apply - potential counts, and so do you.
As a WORK180 Endorsed Employer, we support flexibility that works for your life, inclusive leadership that values your voice, and equitable access to opportunity so you can do your best work and bring your whole self to it.
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