Transition Engineering Principal

About the role

Babcock is looking for a Transition Engineering Principal to provide technical leadership across the transition from the Defence High Frequency Communications System (DHFCS) to the Enhanced Defence High Frequency Communications System (EDHFCS). The role leads complex systems engineering activities, technical investigations, reviews and Engineering Change Proposals (ECPs) and supports Handover-Takeover (HOTO) activities at operational sites across Australia.

Key responsibilities

• Lead complex systems engineering activities, technical investigations, reviews and ECPs, applying engineering judgement to support decisions throughout the program lifecycle.
• Take ownership of high-quality technical outputs, documentation and engineering solutions.
• Support HOTO activities at operational sites across Australia.
• Work with internal and external customers, leading technical presentations and formal reviews.
• Manage technical risks and ensure relevant standards and procedures are applied.
• Contribute to continuous improvement across engineering processes, safety and operational capability.

Required profile

• Experienced systems engineering professional with the depth and leadership to make complex engineering decisions on a major Defence program.
• Strong knowledge of engineering design, analysis, integration and support practices, and the ability to investigate complex technical issues and assess risk.
• Comfortable coaching, mentoring and directing others, and communicating complex technical information clearly.
• Commitment to knowledge sharing, professional development, process improvement and a strong Safety, Health and Environmental culture.
• Eligibility to obtain the appropriate Commonwealth Personnel Security Clearance, as defined in the AGSVA guidelines.

Required skills

• Extensive experience in technical/engineering roles.
• Strong systems engineering experience, ideally in RF, HF or communications disciplines.
• Proficiency in engineering toolsets such as PLM or MRP systems, and design, simulation and analysis software.
• Good understanding of defence and government programs, preferably in system sustainment.
• An accredited (Washington Accord) bachelor's degree in Communications, Mechanical, Electrical or Systems engineering.

What we offer

• Agile work environment with onsite and remote work, a laptop and working-from-home kit, and compressed hours.
• Leave including annual leave, wellbeing leave, volunteer leave, paid parental leave and defence reservist leave.
• Career growth through a capability framework, self-led learning modules via LinkedIn Learning and study leave.
• Employee discounts, novated leasing options and a corporate shares plan.
• Wellbeing support through an online programme and an employee assistance program.