The Role

The Discipline Lead Supercomputing Security Assurance is a senior leadership role within the Supercomputing Security Operations function and works within broad guidelines to deliver a world class secure supercomputing capability to Defence.

This role requires the individual to work with considerable independence and is accountable for performing and achieving very complex risk and protective security work, within the four keys areas of governance, personnel, information/cyber, and physical security, within an integrated workforce.

This role is responsible for leading and managing all aspects of security operations related to Defence’s supercomputing technology and requires a deep understanding of the supercomputing landscape, including hardware, software, and network technologies.

The individual will be responsible for influencing and developing strategies, policies, priorities, and operational practices in support of Defence objectives. They will provide strategic advice to senior management and stakeholders and lead complex work or sensitive projects. This position has people management responsibility and is expected to advance a positive culture, empowering people to succeed, and proactively building a high-performing team of security experts.

With communication and networking skills of a high standard, the Discipline Lead Supercomputing Security Assurance will develop productive partnerships, work collaboratively, and manage strategic relationships with key stakeholders. They will consult widely, share information and drive knowledge transfer between peers in the Innovation, Science and Technology (IS&T) enterprise. They will be accountable to contribute towards ongoing self-improvement and professional development.

Flexible office arrangement are supported, however regular access to Defence classified networks will require regular office attendance.

About our Team

Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG) hosts the Defence Supercomputing Capability, which provides Defence and National Security agencies with a world-class, secure, multi-tenanted collaboration ecosystem at the scale of supercomputing. The capability enables innovation, science and technology outcomes that support timely authoritative advice, allowing informed decision-making through advanced modelling, simulation, data processing, artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Supercomputing Branch covers the end-to-end management of the Supercomputing Capability including strategy, allied engagement, design, technology refresh and all aspects of operations from infrastructure up to user workflows, researcher training and support.

Supercomputing Security Operations Assurance (SSOSA) plays a critical role in ensuring the security and integrity of Defence’s supercomputing capability. SSO SA is responsible for with conducting threat assessments and monitoring and assuring Supercomputing system certification and accreditation. SASO is accountable for the implementation of supercomputing security controls within the capability, often as alternatives to standard enterprise implementations of Protective Security Policy Framework (PSPF), Information Security Manual (ISM), and Defence Security Principles Framework (DSPF). SASO is also accountable for adherence to FMS/ITAR/PA/DSGL requirements and security controls.

The Directorate security subject matter experts work closely with Supercomputing Office (SO), Supercomputing Systems Infrastructure (SSI), Supercomputing Engagement (SE), Group Cyber (GC), and Research Operations (RO) to provide advice, training, reporting, auditing, and enforcing compliance with the security controls. SSO SA is also accountable for adherence to any export controls, interim final rules, licence requirements and guidance related to advanced computing.

Our Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate for this role:

• Is passionate about a role in protective security in the supercomputing context and is committed to Defence’s purpose to defend and protect Australia and advance its strategic interests.
• Has a sound knowledge of Australian Government and Defence security principles, policy and controls and understanding of Australia’s protective security environment and the important of protective security in mitigating Defence’s security risks.
• Is a strong and confident leader with strong influencing ability and a willingness to work with stakeholders to address complex and sensitive issues and maintain productive working relationships.
• Is able to demonstrate well-developed written and verbal communication skills with the ability to interpret policy and provide advice that drives and influences the improvement of security posture across the Branch and wider organisation resonates with different stakeholder groups.
• Has a demonstrated ability to interpret policy, develop and deliver solutions to complex problems and be able to prioritise work, manage time and deadlines and work proactively and autonomously with limited direction.
• Demonstrates an understanding of IT security risk management, the ability to engage with risk and confidently make security risk decisions based on all available information.
• Demonstrates behaviours aligned with Defence and DSTG cultural expectations.
• A Positive Vetting Security Clearance or ability to obtain and maintain this level of clearance.

Application Closing Date: Sunday 16 March, 2025

For further information please review the job information pack, reference DSTG/00326/25 on https://defencecareers.nga.net.au/?jati=ECA5ABFC-51D5-48B2-928F-E37AED015306.