Head of Engineering: SSNS

ASC is Australia’s submarine company. We built the Royal Australian Navy’s Collins Class submarines, sustain them, and are now delivering their Life of Type Extension to increase the boats’ service lives. We have also been selected by the Australian Government to sustain and jointly build the nation’s nuclear-powered submarines – the largest and most complex industrial undertaking in Australia’s history.

Our work is interesting and meaningful, contributing directly to Australia’s national security. We offer rewarding roles that provide the opportunity to grow your career, and the flexibility to balance life and work. A career at ASC is like no other, delivering a deeper purpose we can all be proud of.

About the OpportunityWe are seeking a highly experienced Head of Engineering – SSN Sustainment to lead ASC’s engineering function supporting the sustainment of conventionally‑armed, nuclear‑powered submarines. Reporting to the Program Director, SSN Sustainment, you will shape the strategic direction of engineering resources across future submarine sustainment activities at HMAS Stirling and the emerging Henderson Defence Precinct. This role is pivotal in defining ASC’s engineering capability, leading international engagement with AUKUS partners, and ensuring ASC is positioned as a key technical steward and authority for SSN sustainment operations.

You’ll guide long‑term planning, workforce growth, capability development, and engineering governance in a highly complex, multinational environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and execution of the SSN Sustainment Engineering strategy, ensuring strong alignment with program objectives.
• Define and manage all engineering resources, including infrastructure, tooling, ICT systems, and capability requirements.
• Collaborate with AUKUS stakeholders, including PHNSY&IMF, ASA, NSSG, and international partners, to define ASC’s technical roles and responsibilities.
• Lead engineering support system requirements and readiness planning for upcoming SSN maintenance availabilities.
• Represent ASC as the Engineering Lead across domestic and international working groups, contributing to Technical Stewardship and Technical Authority functions.
• Drive development of engineering frameworks, governance models, and decision‑making structures that ensure accountability and technical excellence.
• Develop a long-term engineering workforce demand profile, including recruitment, skills development, and career pathways.
• Manage risk, performance, and resource allocation across engineering streams to ensure optimal program outcomes.
• Foster a high‑performance culture built on clear expectations, professional development, and team leadership
• Maintain flexibility for engagement across multiple time zones and stakeholders, including periodic international travel.

About you

• Degree‑qualified in Engineering (Master’s preferred), or equivalent extensive naval/marine engineering experience.
• At least 10 years’ senior engineering leadership experience, ideally in shipbuilding, naval sustainment, or complex defence engineering environments.
• Strong understanding of engineering regulatory requirements and governance frameworks.
• Experienced in international defence engagement and collaborating with multinational stakeholders.
• Skilled in developing and executing engineering strategies, frameworks, and organisational capability plans.
• Proven ability to lead high‑performing teams in high‑stakes, technically complex environments.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to develop high‑quality solutions to engineering challenges.
• Confident in revising and improving policies, processes, and engineering approaches to enhance quality, efficiency, and delivery.
• Exceptional communication and relationship‑building skills, with the ability to influence at senior levels across government, industry, and international partners.

Eligibility

This role requires a current National Police Clearance, an Australian Defence Security Clearance and an ability to access protected US defence technology. Your eligibility for this role is dependent on you obtaining and maintaining such clearances and approvals.

Whilst ASC…