Principal Systems Engineer

Emanate Technology; Adelaide; On-site; AUD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Emanate Technology is seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to provide technical leadership across C4ISREW programs and collaborate with Defence stakeholders to deliver high-quality engineering solutions.

The role requires substantial experience in Defence engineering, regulatory governance, and mentoring teams, with NV1 clearance preferred. You will drive innovation, support capability strategy, and manage complex project outcomes within a national security context.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electrical, Electronic or RF preferred).
• 5 years of experience within a Defence Worthiness framework.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert technical leadership across C4ISREW capabilities.
• Deliver solutions aligned to client requirements and project objectives.
• Lead technical activities and complex project outcomes.
• Mentor technical personnel and engage with stakeholders.
• Contribute to capability strategy and organisational growth.

Skills

C4ISREW leadership

Defence stakeholder liaison

Risk management

Technical mentorship

Written and verbal communication

Project delivery

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering (Electrical, Electronic or RF preferred)

Master's Degree in Systems Engineering

Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) status

Job description

Principal Systems Engineer | Active NV1 Clearance Required

Emanate Technology is partnering with a leading Australian Defence and National Security consultancy seeking an experienced Principal Systems Engineer to provide technical leadership across complex C4ISREW programs.

Working alongside multidisciplinary engineering teams, you will deliver expert advice, lead innovative solution development, and support the enhancement of mission-critical capabilities across Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance and Electronic Warfare environments.

The Role

As a recognised subject matter expert, you will work closely with Defence stakeholders to deliver high-quality engineering solutions, drive innovation, mentor technical teams, and contribute to capability strategy. This role offers the opportunity to influence nationally significant programs while remaining at the forefront of emerging technologies and industry developments.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing expert technical leadership across C4ISREW capabilities
• Delivering solutions aligned to client requirements and project objectives
• Leading technical activities and complex project outcomes
• Driving innovation and continuous improvement initiatives
• Supporting research and development activities
• Mentoring and developing technical personnel
• Managing stakeholder relationships and project delivery activities
• Contributing to capability strategy and organisational growth

Essential Skills & Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering (Electrical, Electronic or RF preferred)
• 5 years of experience working within a Defence Worthiness framework
• Significant experience within a Defence engineering environment
• Experience implementing technical regulations and governance frameworks
• Strong understanding of Electronic Warfare principles including ES, EP and EA
• Demonstrated experience applying risk management methodologies
• Proven ability to lead complex technical projects and stakeholder engagements
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience leading and mentoring technical teams

Desirable Skills & Experience

• Master's Degree in Systems Engineering
• Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) status
• Experience with Electronic Countermeasure systems
• Knowledge of Defence acquisition and procurement processes
• Experience supporting capability strategy and technical roadmaps
• Involvement in research and development initiatives

What’s On Offer?

• Certified as a Great Place To Work 5 years in a row
• Strong focus on innovation and technical excellence
• Opportunity to work alongside Defence subject matter experts
• Collaborative and highly skilled engineering environment
• Meaningful work supporting Australia's Defence and National Security outcomes

We are an inclusive employer committed to fostering a diverse and accessible workplace. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disabilities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people of all ages, and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

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