PMO Lead

Downer; Canberra; On-site; AUD 130,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Downer Professional Services is seeking a PMO Lead / Master Scheduler in Canberra (with flexibility for other Australian locations) to drive complex Defence ICT and Capability programs. You will develop and maintain the DEF2150 Master Schedule, align cross-functional workstreams, and provide ongoing status reporting to stakeholders.

Ideal candidates will demonstrate senior PMO leadership within Defence or government programs, expert scheduling, proficiency in MS Project and ServiceNow, and a

Qualifications

• Experience leading PMO functions in Defence, ICT or Government programs.
• Advanced scheduling; managing large integrated master schedules.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Project and enterprise PM tools.
• Strong understanding of program dependencies, critical path, risk management and governance.

Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain and manage the DEF2150 Master Schedule across workstreams and dependencies.
• Lead PMO planning and scheduling using MS Project and ServiceNow (EP3M).
• Monitor milestones, identify and manage schedule risks, delays and impacts.
• Maintain critical path and dependency registers for visibility and reporting.
• Provide regular program status reporting and support stakeholders.

Skills

PMO leadership

Master scheduling

MS Project

Scheduling tools

Dependency management

Risk management

Governance

Stakeholder reporting

Tools

ServiceNow EP3M

Job description

Join our Downer Professional Services team and play a key role in delivering complex defence and national security projects that safeguard Australia's future.

Downer Professional Services comprises of our Technical, Advisory, and Capability consulting practice, and Team Downer, which partners with CASG and NSSG as a major service provider to Defence. Together, we are a multi-disciplinary advisory and delivery partner of choice for clients across Defence and National Security.

We currently have an opportunity for a PMO Lead / Master Scheduler in Canberra (preferred), with other Australian locations considered, to work on Defence Intelligence, ICT and Capability projects.

What You'll Do

This role offers a broad scope, with key role responsibilities including:

• Develop, maintain and manage the DEF2150 Master Schedule, ensuring alignment across program workstreams and dependencies.
• Lead PMO planning and scheduling activities using MS Project and Defence program management tools, including ServiceNow (EP3M).
• Monitor critical milestones, proactively identifying and managing schedule risks, delays and impacts.
• Maintain critical path and dependency registers, ensuring integrated program visibility and reporting.
• Provide regular program status reporting and support stakeholders in resolving scheduling and delivery challenges.

What You'll Bring

• Demonstrated experience leading PMO functions within complex Defence, ICT or Government programs.
• Advanced scheduling expertise, including development and management of large, integrated master schedules.
• Proven proficiency in Microsoft Project and familiarity with enterprise project management tools.
• Strong understanding of program dependencies, critical path analysis, risk management and governance.

Due to the nature of the work, you are required to currently hold and maintain an AGSVA Security clearance as required by the Commonwealth. In some instances, compliance with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) requirements may also be an inherent requirement.

More than anything, you'll bring a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and a commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes for our clients.

Why Downer Professional Services

At Downer Professional Services, we’re not just a workplace - we’re a business dedicated to contributing to the shaping of the future of defence in Australia. As the country’s only sovereign prime, we’re committed to making a real difference in protecting Australia’s interests.

What is means to belong at Downer Professional Services

• Meaningful work: Help to deliver critical Defence projects that protect Australia and shape its future.
• Professional development: Access career mapping, accelerated learning programs, and shared learning through our Communities of Practice.
• Great perks: Enjoy discounts on healthcare, retail, vehicles, and more through Perks@Downer.
• Veteran support: Benefit from initiatives like up to 20 days of Reservist Leave to stay connected post-service.

You want your work to matter and so do we. With over 26,000 people across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific, our team is made up of individuals with unique perspectives, backgrounds, and ideas.

We know that diversity makes us stronger and we actively celebrate it through our commitment to inclusion and belonging.

We’re committed to building a team that reflects the diverse communities we serve and we welcome people of all ages, genders, sexual orientations, cultures, abilities, and lived experiences. We especially encourage applications from those whose voices have traditionally been underrepresented in our industry, including women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, Māori and Pasifika Peoples, veterans, people with disability, and neurodivergent individuals. Even if your experience doesn’t align perfectly with this role, we’d still like to hear from you.

As a WORK180 Endorsed Employer, we support flexibility that works for your life, inclusive leadership that values your voice, and equitable access to opportunity so you can do your best work and bring your whole self to it.

If you need support or adjustments through the recruitment process, just let us know, we’re here to help you put your best foot forward.