First listed on: 12 May 2023
SES Band 3 - Deputy Director General – Technical (Nuclear-Powered Submarines) 

SES Band 3
Salary may be negotiated with the successful candidates
Canberra - ACT

Introduction

Australia’s acquisition of conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines is historic and transformational. The Pathway announced on 14 March 2023, will deliver Australia a world-class capability that will see our nation become one of only seven countries that operate nuclear-powered submarines. This game changing capability will enhance Australia’s capacity to deter conflict and support security, peace and economic prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.

The magnitude of the work presents an exciting opportunity for a dedicated, committed and technical leader to shape the safe and secure delivery of this new technology. The Deputy Director General - Technical will provide direct high level technical advice to Defence Ministers, senior leadership across Defence and broader government and international partners.

Given the significant scope and responsibility of the role, the successful candidate should have extensive and demonstrated experience in technical and security aspects relating to nuclear submarine capabilities. To satisfy the requirements of this challenging leadership role, candidates will need to be proven at a comparable level in the Engineering and Research field with excellent analytical capabilities and extensive national security experience. They will need to demonstrate an international reputation in their field. A demonstrated track record in organisation leadership and ability to interact effectively across Government and industry is also highly desirable.

The ideal candidate will be a collaborative leader who has a nuclear mindset, exemplifies the Defence Values and Behaviours and engenders a culture of innovation and agility. They will be self-aware, and positive in considering and respecting diversity of ideas and the perspectives of others.

Your Role

The Deputy Director General – Technical is responsible for the implementation of the Government's commitment to deliver the nuclear-powered submarine program as the principle agent responsible for leading the technical aspects to achieve Australia’s future submarine fleet. 

As the Deputy Director General – Technical you will need to have expert knowledge of pressured water reactors and/or naval nuclear propulsion technology.  You will be responsible for exercising security of nuclear propulsion technology and those elements supporting this technology, including: personal, physical infrastructure, ICT and cyber. The Deputy Director General – Technical also has the remit for program management of nuclear powered submarine technology and ensuring whole of organization engagement and compliance with regulators and regulation. This role requires providing technical advice on the capability and significant international engagement.

As a member of the senior leadership group, you must be able to promote a culture of innovation, collaboration and agility. You must also be able to effectively manage complex legislative and ethical frameworks to achieve capability outcomes for Defence portfolio and the Australian Government.

You will lead an integrated workforce of dedicated professionals including ADF members, public servants and contractors. Experience in leading and supporting staff through a significant period of change will be viewed favourably.

Additionally, you will contribute to the preparation of Ministerial and Cabinet submissions and briefings for Minsters in relation to new innovation, science and technology programs required for the acquisition, build and sustainment of a fleet of nuclear powered submarines, develop fulsome and targeted briefing material in relation to innovation, science and technology programs to support Australian delegations on overseas visits and support the First Assistant Secretary Technology in their involvement with trilateral working groups.

Additional Information 
Engagement may be negotiated on an ongoing or non-ongoing basis. These are security-designated positions and the successful applicant will be required to hold or obtain a Top Secret Positive Vetting security clearance.

A Merit Pool of suitable candidates will be established to fill similar vacancies that may occur within the next 18 months. 

To discuss the requirements of these positions, after first reviewing the selection documentation, please contact Jonathan Beaumont – 02 6126 4500 - defence@beaumontandbeaumont.com.au quoting Reference Number 5413.

For Senior Executive Service administrative recruitment enquiries please contact the Directorate of Senior Officer Management at DSOM@defence.gov.au.

Application Closing Date: Sunday 28 May 2023

For further information please review the job information pack, reference NPST/04380/23 on https://defencecareers.nga.net.au/?jati=4B54E4FE-B841-39A6-7DF7-D1A6475E8E3C  

 
 
 



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