At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead software development for cutting-edge military technology and mentor junior engineers.
- Company: Join the Australian Department of Defence, a leader in innovative land capabilities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, additional remuneration, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Enjoy a dynamic team culture focused on collaboration and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on Australia's defence capabilities while working with advanced technologies.
- Qualifications: Bachelor of Engineering and strong software development skills required.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 110000 $ per year.
The Fires Modernisation Program is seeking an EL 1 Software Engineer to lead complex software development and engineering activities supporting the integration of NATO's SG2 Shareable (Fire Control) Software Suite (S4) Technology into the Program's Fire Control System for the Australian Army's new artillery capability, and more broadly throughout the Land Fires ecosystem.
In this senior role, you will provide technical leadership, develop and sustain S4 Technology, undertake software development and testing, oversee software prototyping and tool development, and ensure interoperability with Battle Management Systems - Fires. You will represent Australia in the NATO S4 Programme, undertake technology development (including mathematical model definition, software implementation and integration), and ensure compatibility of solutions. You will be expected to conduct software quality assurance test and evaluation activities, undertake independent software audits of NATO S4 Technology, and guide and mentor junior team members in completion of these tasks.
This role is eligible for an additional remuneration benefit known in Defence as a Building Defence Capability Payment (BDCP). This enables Defence to provide a premium, in addition to the base salary otherwise payable under the Defence Enterprise Collective Agreement (DECA), for positions in occupational disciplines/classifications that are critical to Defence capability.
About our Team: Land Systems Division's (LSD) mission is to acquire and support capability that enables the ADF to generate and sustain deployable Land power for an integrated force, in peace and war. We aim to be agile, innovative and outcomes-focussed as we collaborate closely with the Services and industry to deliver the latest equipment to maximise ADF performance. The Land Engineering Agency (LEA), as part of CASG, supports various Projects and Systems Program Offices (SPO) to ensure successful technical outcomes of Defence acquisition and in-service support of land materiel. LEA provides services in engineering, testing, design and development, technical data and configuration management across the Defence Capability Life Cycle. LSD is dedicated to providing staff with an inclusive and healthy work-life environment, and we will invest in your ongoing professional development to ensure your work with us is deeply rewarding.
Our Ideal Candidate: As an EL 1 Software Engineer, you will lead a small team, working with a high degree of autonomy, guiding stakeholders, developing and testing software in an Ada environment, managing software engineering specifications, resolving Problem and Change Requests, and delivering expert technical advice across the capability lifecycle. Strong demonstrated capability in software development, software architecture, and structured development and testing processes are essential. A demonstrated ability to develop, test and maintain complex software, and operate in a dispersed software development environment is essential.
Mandatory Qualifications: A role in this engineering occupation requires a Bachelor of Engineering from an Australian institution, or a qualification gained elsewhere, that satisfies the requirements of the Washington Accord for recognition as a Professional Engineer. This engineering position may require the individual to be able to meet the requirements of Chartered Professional Engineer (Engineers Australia), Registered Professional Engineer (Professionals Australia) or Fellow/Member of Royal Institution of Naval Architects or demonstrated the ability to obtain such status within 12 months.
Application Closing Date: 11:30pm Thursday 27 August 2026. For further information please review the job information pack, reference CASG/04009/26 on Defence Careers.
Software Engineer 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
