At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and improve the Quality Management System for Defence compliance and performance.
- Company: Join the Australian Department of Defence's Joint Proof and Experimental Unit in Canberra.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, special locality allowances, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with flexible work options and strong career development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on quality standards and organisational performance in Defence.
- Qualifications: Experience in quality management systems, auditing, and continuous improvement required.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 88000 $ per year.
Australian Department of Defence – Canberra ACT Joint Proof and Experimental Unit (JPEU) is seeking an experienced and motivated Quality Manager to lead the management, maintenance, and continual improvement of our Quality Management System (QMS) (ISO:9001 QMS and NATA 17025 NDT). This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in ensuring compliance with Defence requirements, regulatory obligations, and recognised industry standards while fostering a culture of quality and continuous improvement across the organisation.
As the Quality Manager, you will provide expert advice to management and staff on quality, compliance, and assurance matters, oversee internal and external audit programs, manage non-conformities and corrective actions, and drive initiatives that enhance organisational performance. You will analyse quality data, identify risks and improvement opportunities, and support effective decision-making through quality reporting and stakeholder engagement. You will work closely with leaders and stakeholders across the organisation to strengthen governance, improve business processes, enhance operational effectiveness, and embed a culture of accountability, quality, and continuous improvement.
The role offers the opportunity to influence strategic outcomes, support organisational capability, and ensure quality remains at the forefront of business operations. This role is ideal for a quality professional with strong experience in quality management systems, auditing, compliance, root-cause analysis, and continuous improvement, who is committed to delivering high standards and positive organisational outcomes.
About our Team JPEU is an integral part of Explosive Ordnance Branch, Joint Logistics Command and is tasked to provide dynamic, static and environmental test and evaluation services to the Australian Defence Organisation. JPEU consists of a Headquarters which is spread across VIC, SA and ACT, as well as two ranges at P&EE Graytown VIC, and P&EE Port Wakefield SA.
Our Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate is a highly motivated and experienced quality professional with a strong background in Quality Management Systems (ISO:9001 QMS/NATA 17025 NDT), compliance, auditing, and continuous improvement. They possess excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify risks, investigate issues, and implement effective corrective actions that deliver lasting organisational benefits. They are a confident communicator who can provide trusted advice to managers and staff, build strong stakeholder relationships, and influence positive outcomes across diverse business areas.
The successful candidate will demonstrate sound judgement, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to improving processes, governance, and organisational performance. Experience managing audits, compliance activities, quality documentation, and performance reporting will be highly regarded. Above all, they will be committed to fostering a culture of quality, accountability, and continuous improvement, ensuring the organisation consistently meets its operational objectives and compliance obligations.
The right person for this role will show the flexibility to respond to the changing context and shifting priorities of JPEU, to achieve business outcomes. In this role, the individual will provide support to a geographically dispersed team.
Application Closing Date: Thursday 22 October 2026
Quality Manager in Canberra employer: Australian Department of Defence
The Australian Department of Defence is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of ADF members and their families during their transition to civilian life. With a strong commitment to employee growth, a supportive work culture, and competitive benefits including generous superannuation, employees are empowered to develop their skills in a dynamic environment that values collaboration and continuous improvement. Located in Holsworthy, NSW, this role provides a chance to engage with diverse stakeholders while contributing to a vital mission that supports those who have served Australia.
Contact Details:
Australian Department of Defence Recruitment Team
