Principal Cyber Security Engineer – Canberra

About the role

We are seeking a Principal Cyber Security Engineer to lead the design, implementation and oversight of cybersecurity architecture across networks, platforms and on‑premises systems in a secure, defence‑focused environment in Canberra.

Key responsibilities

• Define and enforce cybersecurity standards aligned with NIST, ISO/IEC 27001 and the Essential Eight.
• Support preparation and submission of ATO artefacts, including security documentation, risk registers and evidence packages.
• Implement and validate technical security controls in accordance with the Australian ISM.
• Design and manage secure automation pipelines using Ansible, Terraform and Packer.
• Develop and deploy security tools to remediate vulnerabilities and automate security tasks.
• Conduct risk assessments, penetration testing, vulnerability assessments and security audits.
• Monitor and analyse security logs, respond to emerging threats, and maintain SIEM platforms such as Splunk.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to implement secure authentication, encryption and access‑control solutions.
• Evaluate and integrate emerging cybersecurity technologies to enhance infrastructure protection.
• Communicate security strategies to technical and non‑technical stakeholders and provide expert troubleshooting.

Required profile

• Minimum 6 years of experience in cyber security engineering.
• Active NV2 security clearance.
• Proven ability to work in highly regulated, defence‑aligned environments.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.

Required skills

• NIST Cybersecurity Framework
• ISO/IEC 27001
• Australian Information Security Manual (ISM) and Essential Eight
• Ansible, Terraform, Packer
• SIEM platforms – Splunk
• Risk assessment, penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, security audit
• Security log analysis and incident response
• Secure authentication, encryption and access‑control implementation

What we offer

• Salary package of approximately $190,000 + Superannuation.
• Opportunity to work on high‑impact government and defence projects.
• Flexible remuneration for exceptional candidates.