The Role

The Small Uncrewed Aerial Systems Contracts Manager is a critical role in achieving the contractual obligations within the UASPO commercial team.

Reporting to the Director SUAS the Contracts Manager will be responsible for:

• Deliver procurement-related documentation including templates, schedules, correspondence, reports, submissions, plans, strategies, risk and performance reviews, contract change proposals, and other contract management documentation.
• Engage and negotiate with clients and stakeholders and respond to complex inquiries and contract management issues, taking the initiative to identify alternative courses of action where necessary.
• Build and sustain productive relationships with supervisors, staff, and team members and actively participate in teamwork and group activities.
• Initiate and recommend mitigation strategies for the risks associated with contract management activities, supplier’s performance, and compliance with mandatory requirements.
• Seek, interpret, and provide advice and assistance on complex procurement and contract management issues.
• Monitor and manage contract administration, performance, and risks against the contract and contribute to appropriate action.

The successful candidate will be expected to uphold the Defence and UASMU behaviours, values, and culture, work effectively as an individual and within a team, collaborate effectively, and possess excellent communication skills.

This role has been identified as requiring access to International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) controlled technology. The ITAR is United States (US) law which regulates defence articles, including technical data, and defence services on the United States Munitions List. Access restrictions may apply on the basis of currently held/previously held citizenship, as well as current permanent residency. Defence may be able to utilise workforce exemptions to mitigate these restrictions, which generally requires that applicants provide details of all current citizenships and permanent residencies, as well as previously held citizenships. Defence collects these details to confirm an applicant’s eligibility for the role and to maintain compliance with international obligations.

About our Team

The Cargo Helicopter and Uncrewed Surveillance Program Office (CHUSPO) delivers acquisition and through-life support for the CH-47F Chinook and Army Aviation System Branch supported fleets of Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS). The Program Office is made up of the Cargo Helicopter Management Unit (CHMU), the Uncrewed Aerial Systems Management Unit (UASMU), the Army Uncrewed Aerial Systems Acquisition Project Office (AUAS APO) and the Business Management Unit (BMU).

CHUSPO is based in Brisbane with small detachments in Oakey, Townsville and Canberra, and a Technical Liaison Officer in the USA. CHUSPO supports career development through a comprehensive professional development program, encouraging employees to build both leadership and technical skills, and harnesses continuous improvement ideas and innovations.

Our Ideal Candidate

Our ideal candidate will possess the ability to work under broad direction to perform and achieve complex commercial and oversight activities within a multi-disciplinary, integrated, workforce. They will demonstrate an ability to engage in positive working relationships with all stakeholders and manage the relationship between UASPO and commercial partners and contractors. There will be a requirement to update and maintain current contracts for accuracy and currency, as well as coordinate the drafting of contract change proposals and survey and quote provisions.

The successful candidate will possess highly developed written and oral communication skills, excellent attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate across key aviation stakeholders to achieve high-quality organisational outcomes.

To be successful in this role, you will bring the following attributes and skills to the role:

• Previous experience in contracting and procurement.
• Strong problem-solving and issue resolution skills.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to problem solve and find solutions.
• Ability to provide procurement policy advice and guidance on contractual matters.

Application Closing Date: Thursday 14 August 2025

For further information please review the job information pack, reference CASG/06255/25 on https://defencecareers.nga.net.au/?jati=8DE722A3-3E5B-55B1-7935-E4080465BA65