Project Manager

Role overview

This contract opportunity is for an experienced Project Manager to support work within the Defence sector in Port Adelaide, South Australia. The assignment starts around 10 August 2026 and runs for an initial 10 months, with the possibility of two further 12-month extensions. The role sits at DSS Skill Set Level 3 for Project Management Services and Support.

Key duties

• Prepare project papers and help review and clear documentation, including mobilisation work with the Australian Shipbuilder.
• Assist the Acquisition Branch with workforce development activities alongside the Australian Shipbuilder, including secondment and embedment arrangements for Australian Shipbuilder personnel.
• Draft, coordinate, and refine briefs, submissions, and other written material for senior leaders and Government/Cabinet.
• Oversee briefing products from first draft through to final clearance.
• Collect input from stakeholders, align viewpoints, and ensure the message remains consistent.
• Convert complex or ambiguous matters into clear, structured advice that supports decision-making.
• Manage deadlines and multiple priorities so briefing outputs are delivered on time.
• Respond promptly and thoughtfully to emerging and sensitive matters.
• Work with senior stakeholders to shape key messages and positions.
• Bring together different teams or stakeholders to resolve issues and support a coordinated approach.
• Monitor actions, approvals, and dependencies tied to briefing and governance workflows.
• Manage sensitive and classified information carefully and appropriately.
• Support governance meetings with briefing packs, speaking notes, and follow-up actions as required.
• Ensure all written material is accurate, polished, and of a high standard.
• Develop productive relationships with external stakeholders.
• Help improve the way briefing and advice are coordinated and delivered across the program.
• Coach the APS project team within the Acquisition Branch and share knowledge with them.

Required experience

• An AGSVA security clearance is mandatory.
• Prior Defence experience is required.
• You must have substantial experience working on a complex major acquisition program within Defence.
• You need to have shown the ability to build and maintain constructive communication across teams and represent work at senior executive level in both government and industry settings.

Additional information

The client is offering competitive contract day rates. Flexible working arrangements, including flexi-time and remote work where feasible, are available. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply. The organisation is committed to inclusive cultures within the Australian Defence sector that respect and promote human rights and diversity. Reference code: CR/3602.

Application note

Submit your CV before 8:00am on Thursday, 2 July 2026 to be considered for the full position details.