We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Project Lead (APS6) or Project Manager (EL1) to join the Office of Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) within the Criminal Investigations Branch (CIB).

This is a new team, and you will have the opportunity to shape the culture and work practices as you implement the FWO’s ability to undertake criminal investigation of intentional underpayments across Australia. Full-time and part-time hours and hybrid work arrangements are available.

To be considered for the EL1 role, you must satisfy the additional selection criteria requirements set out in this position description. You may apply for the APS6 role, the EL1 role, or both. Full-time and part-time hours and hybrid work arrangements are available. Offers will be based on candidate performance and operational requirements.

About the FWO

The FWO is an independent statutory office established by the Fair Work Act 2009 (Fair Work Act). Our functions outline the responsibilities we have as set by the Fair Work Act and other legislation to achieve our purpose:

• provide education, assistance, advice and guidance to employers, employees, outworkers, outworker entities and organisations
• promote and monitor compliance with workplace laws
• inquire into and investigate breaches of the Fair Work Act
• take appropriate enforcement action
• perform our statutory functions efficiently, effectively, economically and ethically.

What our employees say about us

We are one of the most engaged and high performing agencies in Australia; consistently scoring above average on employee engagement when compared to other APS agencies.

What we offer you

We provide a diverse, inclusive and supportive work environment with access to:

• Security: Job security and opportunities to gain experience in areas that interest you.
• Flexibility: Generous leave and flexible working arrangements, including working from home
• Training: Great training and development opportunities
• High Superannuation: Competitive benefits, plus 15.4% superannuation
• Employee Assistance Program: a free counselling service for you and your family

We Value Diversity

As part of the APS, we want to represent the community we serve. The FWO embraces and celebrates diversity and welcomes all people to work with us. We have dedicated initiatives to encourage applications and to support people from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds working within our inclusive culture. We encourage and welcome applications from First Nations people, people with disability, LGBTQIA+ people, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and mature age people.

Eligibility

• To be eligible for employment with the FWO you must be an Australian citizen.
• The successful candidate must hold a current Australian Government Security Clearance (AGSVA) or be willing to undergo and obtain a Baseline security clearance (we will support you through this process)

A range of other conditions may be required depending on the role you are applying for.

About the Branch

The Criminal Investigations Branch (CIB) is a new branch, established in response to the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Closing Loopholes) Act 2023, which introduces a criminal offence for employers intentionally failing to pay employee entitlements. The FWO will be responsible for investigating contraventions of the offence and referring matters to the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions or the Australian Federal Police. The CIB will be responsible for establishing the systems, processes, capabilities and policies required to effectively operate as a dual civil and criminal regulator.

The Project Management Office will be responsible for the establishment of a project management framework and practices within the branch, including the uplift of staff capability and creation of relevant project processes, artefacts and guidance materials.

This is a high-profile area with interest from the Australian public and stakeholder groups within and external to the FWO. You’ll need to be comfortable working in an environment with a high level of scrutiny.

Typical Duties

As the Project Lead (APS6) or Project Manager (EL1) your key responsibilities may include:

• Leading the implementation of a project management framework and Project Management Office (PMO) function within the CIB
• Developing and implementing a plan to uplift project management capabilities, technologies and artefacts within the CIB
• Providing expertise and leadership to the Criminal Investigation Branch on project management best practices, techniques and technologies
• Leading the planning and execution of projects in line with agency and branch priorities
• Overseeing project governance, reporting and compliance with relevant frameworks
• Identifying and managing risks, dependencies, and constraints
• Conducting research and analysis to support project decision-making
• Managing project budgets, contracts, and procurement processes as required
• Engaging with internal and external stakeholders to gather requirements, seek expertise, provide updates, implement change initiatives and ensure alignment with objectives.

Interstate and overnight travel may be required in this role.

Selection Criteria

To be successful in the role at both the APS6 and EL1 level, you will possess:

• Demonstrated project management experience with a proven track record of delivering successful initiatives within an organisation using PM waterfall and agile methodologies
• Expertise in business process improvement, with the ability to analyse current-state processes, identify inefficiencies, and design and map future state solutions.
• Demonstrated ability to provide technical advice, training and assistance across the full lifecycle of a project
• Demonstrated ability to lead and work collaboratively with a variety of stakeholders influencing change and negotiating agreement
• Analytical and problem-solving skills, with accuracy and attention to detail to ensure high quality control
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills with the ability to interpret complex concepts to a broad range of stakeholders.

To be considered at the EL1 level, candidates must also demonstrate:

• An ability to work with a higher level of autonomy
• 5+ years of project management experience with a proven track record of leading successful and complex initiatives within an organisation
• An ability to lead and manage change, including demonstrated experience in mentoring, coaching and training staff.
• Practitioner project management qualifications or certification are highly desirable and relevant.