The Role

The acquisition of conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines is an historic and transformative endeavour for Australia. The whole-of-nation effort to safely and securely deliver the cutting edge nuclear-powered submarine program will transform Australia’s economic and national security landscape for decades to come.

As part of this, the Australian Submarine Agency (ASA) is overseeing the development and uplift of the technical capabilities needed to manage and maintain these submarines safely and effectively. As the Acoustic Signatures Specialist, you’ll help shape how Australia understands and manages the acoustic signatures of its submarine fleet.

These signatures are key to submarine stealth and survivability. Your work will support the development of tools and techniques to predict, measure, assess, and treat acoustic signatures—ensuring our platforms remain secure and operationally effective. You’ll work with a range of partners, including Defence, industry, and international stakeholders, to build Australia’s capability in this space.

This is a true whole of government effort that can open up a variety of different career opportunities. You’ll also contribute to other signature domains, such as electromagnetic and above-water signatures, and help coordinate ASA’s signature management strategy. You’ll have opportunities to lead projects, guide teams, and contribute to a once-in-a-generation national program.

Your work may include working directly with our US and UK counterparts to develop our knowledge, governance structures and industrial capabilities. With an increased forward presence of Royal Navy and US Navy Nuclear-Powered Submarines to Australia, this may mean working closely on site, and/or travel or relocation overseas.

About our Team

The Engineering and Technology Division is responsible for providing design control, independent technical advice, assurance and authority that will support the development and future operation of the nuclear-powered submarine fleet. We operate in a flat structure, with a strong focus on our people, technical development and integrity.

This role sits within the Platform Systems Branch, Signatures Directorate. As a member of the team you will continue to grow your subject matter expertise, be accountable for exercising any assigned Technical Program delegations and providing objective quality engineering and technology evidence. By joining our team, you will be provided with unique opportunities to develop your skills and experience. You will collaborate with experienced engineers and technical specialists engaged in the acquisition, operation and maintenance submarine platforms.

Our Ideal Candidate

We are a dynamic organisation seeking employees who are agile, innovative and energised by high-paced work. We’re looking for someone with strong technical foundations and a practical mindset. You’ll be comfortable working with complex information, collaborating across disciplines, and contributing to long-term capability development.

Our ideal candidates will bring the following attributes and skills to the role:

• Ability to predict, measure, assess, and/or treat acoustic signatures of maritime platforms.
• A strong foundation in engineering, naval architecture, physics, or a related technical discipline.
• Proven ability to synthesise complex technical information and translate it into actionable insights.
• Experience in developing and interpreting technical requirements, and contributing to technical advice and recommendations.
• Capability to lead and manage teams and programs, fostering collaboration and professional development.
• Strong communication skills, including the ability to prepare clear briefs and presentations.
• A collaborative mindset, with experience engaging with Defence, AUKUS partners, industry, academia, and international stakeholders.
• Willingness to work across signature domains and contribute to multidisciplinary teams.

Application Closing Date: Sunday 16 November 2025

For further information please review the job information pack, reference ASA/08255/25 on

https://defencecareers.nga.net.au/?jati=68E5A9AE-FB63-8722-0296-E44F7E69BB62