System Architect

SAAB; Adelaide; Hybrid; AUD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

6 weeks paid leave each year

14% superannuation

Free Income Protection Insurance

Flexible working options

Saab shares matching scheme

MySaab discounts

Job summary

Saab Australia is seeking an accomplished DDG Systems Architect to lead updates to the Hobart Class Destroyer ICS Architecture within the DCE program. The role includes guiding the system’s technical integrity, mentoring engineers, and coordinating with stakeholders across naval platforms.

The successful candidate will bring extensive systems engineering expertise, maritime combat system knowledge, and a proven track record in risk management and architecture definition.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 15 years of experience in systems engineering, with extensive experience in complex/military systems.
• Expertise across the systems engineering lifecycle, including architecture definition, analysis, testing and integration.
• Experience leading and mentoring engineering teams and engaging with diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead updates to the Hobart Class Destroyer ICS Architecture in support of the DCE program.
• Maintain technical integrity and fitness for purpose of the DDG Combat System.
• Identify and manage architectural risks and mitigation plans.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Project management

Stakeholder management

Systems engineering lifecycle

Maritime combat systems

Education

Master’s degree in Systems Engineering

PhD in a related field

Professional certifications (CPEng/CSEP/ESEP)

Job description

Saab Australia is an industry participant in the Combat Systems Integration – Integrated Project Team (CSI-IPT). The CSI-IPT forms a collaborative enterprise organisation to execute scopes of work across Hobart Class Destroyer (SEA4000 Phase 6 and other related Destroyer Capability Enhancement (DCE) upgrades) and the Hunter Class Frigates (HCFs - SEA5000 Phase 1).

The role

The DDG Systems Architect leads the updates to the Hobart Class Destroyer (DDG) Integrated Combat System (ICS) Architecture in support of the Destroyer Capability Enhancement (DCE) Program.

Further, the successful candidate will:

• Manage the architecture of the DDG ICS through DCE, including a technological refresh and introduction of capabilities.
• Support the DDG System Technical Authority (STA) in maintaining technical integrity and fitness for purpose of the DDG Combat System.
• Assess impact of Mission System changes against the requirements and Combat System Design.
• Lead the development of technical inputs to support Engineering Changes.
• Identify and manage the development of risks and associated mitigation plans related to the CS architecture.
• Provide technical and domain knowledge through mentoring the broader technical team.
• Ensure critical compartment layouts and Human System Interfaces support the RAN user concept of operations.
• Engage with the Transversals and Design leads to ensure architectural principles and consistency are maintained across the combat system.
• Support the planning and development of the processes, procedures, and infrastructure to enable successful certification of the DDG Integrated Combat System and provision of assurance.

Flexible work arrangements such as hybrid work from home / office and a 9-day fortnight will be considered for this role.

About you

Your skills and experience will include:

• Advanced tertiary qualifications (Master’s degree or PhD) in a relevant discipline (Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field etc.), and/or equivalent relevant experience (preferably within the defence industry).
• Relevant professional certifications in systems engineering or related fields such as; Engineers Australia CPEng, INCOSE CSEP or ESEP (highly desirable).
• Minimum of 15 years of experience in systems engineering, with extensive experience in complex systems, military systems
• Expertise across the systems engineering lifecycle, including: architectural definition and analysis methods; test and integration.
• Expertise in the architecture of a Combat System within a maritime context.
• Extensive knowledge of the Integration, Test and Evaluation of CS Products into Naval Platforms or equivalent complex Military Systems having challenging constraints.
• Extensive experience in risk identification & mitigation practices, including seeking opportunities for continuous business improvement.
• Extensive experience working with a broad set of internal and external stakeholders and partnering organisations to achieve common goals.
• Extensive working knowledge or demonstrable understanding of Systems Architecture in a Maritime Context will be highly regarded.
• Proven track record of leading and mentoring engineering teams, with strong project management and strategic planning skills.

Applicants must be Australian citizens and hold or be able to obtain an Australian Defence Security Clearance to NV1 level. Information including past and present nationality and citizenship may be requested to check eligibility for access to materials controlled under various export control regimes, including ITAR.

About us

Saab Australia is a defence, security and cyber solutions provider, specialising in the development and integration of major defence and security systems. For over 35 years in Australia, we have built a reputation for delivering complex systems integration projects that provide proven and advanced capabilities to keep us ahead of today’s challenges.

From combat, communications, security and underwater systems, to mixed reality, cyber security and deployable health solutions, our extensive portfolio of products and services provide high-technology solutions for defence forces and civil industries across the globe.

What you will be part of

Explore a wealth of possibilities. Take on challenges, create smart inventions, and grow beyond. This is a place for curious minds, brave pioneers, and everyone in between. Together, we achieve the extraordinary, each bringing our unique perspectives. Your part matters.

Saab is a leading defence and security company with an enduring mission, to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 26,000 talented people, Saab constantly pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer and more sustainable world.

Saab designs, manufactures and maintains advanced systems in aeronautics, weapons, command and control, sensors and underwater systems. Saab is headquartered in Sweden. It has major operations all over the world and is part of the domestic defence capability of several nations.

We employ over 1000 Australians and are committed to fostering a culture of excellence and enriching the employee experience.

By joining Saab, you’ll be a part of a collaborative and supportive organisation, where your professional growth and work‑life balance are emphasised. You’ll work within an innovative and vibrant workplace, while having the opportunity to develop a long‑term, fulfilling career.

As a valued team member of Saab Australia, you’ll access a variety of perks and benefits to support you and your family including:

• 6 weeks paid leave each year
• 14% superannuation
• Free Income Protection Insurance
• Flexible working options
• Access to the Saab shares matching scheme
• Access to MySaab - our online store offering everything from cash back at hundreds of stores to discounts from exclusive partners

By submitting an application to Saab, you consent to undertaking workforce screening activities including, but not limited to, reference checks, Australian Federal Police check, verification of working rights and qualifications, sanctions screening and a pre‑employment medical declaration.

Saab Australia is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders to apply. We also welcome applications from individuals with culturally diverse backgrounds.

Regardless of whether you value cutting edge technology, creativity or an innovative environment, everyone at Saab contributes to keeping people and society safe.