Hunter Class Frigate Program Manager

Job Location: This role is based in Adelaide

This is a full -time permanent role which offers hybrid and flexible working arrangements including a 9 day fortnight.

Who we are:

Join BAE Systems and you’ll be part of something bigger. As a valued member of our global colleague network, you’ll bring your unique skills and perspectives to help pioneer progress and protect what matters most. You’ll be trusted to play your part in delivering the advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions of tomorrow – shaping a safer future, for all of us.

From the depths of the ocean, to the far reaches of space – there’s no limit to where a career at BAE Systems could take you.

Role Description:

The Combat Systems Integration – Integrated Project Team (CSI-IPT) Hunter Class Frigate (HCF) Program Manager is accountable for the delivery of the Combat System Scope of the HCF Program for the Royal Australian Navy, ensuring outcomes are achieved in accordance with the approved scope, schedule and budget.

As the Program Manager, you will provide leadership and direction to a high performing engineering and project management team enabling the successful delivery of complex and challenging objectives. In addition to leading critical capability activities, the Program Manager aligns priorities and communication across a large and diverse stakeholder community within Industry and Defence.

Core Duties and Responsibilities:

• Act as the executive authority for all HCF delivery activities
• Establish executable plans and schedules for all scopes of work
• Lead and direct the HCF team to achieve complex program outcomes to meet schedule and cost objectives
• Establish and maintain trusted and performance-focused relationships with the customer project offices and industry partners
• Communicate relevant program information across the CSI-IPT stakeholders to assist with optimised decision making and timeliness
• Establish the vision and foster a culture for belonging and inclusivity for all industry participant team members
• Monitor performance of key team members and provide mentoring and guidance where necessary to assist with team development and growth
• Establish and maintain the organisational chart for execution and plan the resource demand in collaboration with CSI-IPT Business Operations
• Keep the CSI-IPT General Manager informed of significant issues that may impact delivery of the HCF program or the broader CSI-IPT objectives
• Ensure all HCF Tasking Statements have established and appropriately maintained baselines for scope, cost, schedule and risk
• Chair Tasking Statement reviews and influence timely decisions through engagements with the industry participants and customer representatives

About You

You will have:

• Demonstrated experience as a senior manager within a program orientated organisation with significant exposure in managing complex system of system projects
• A detailed understanding of project management methodologies, risk management and continuous improvement techniques
• Demonstrated experience managing multi-disciplinary program teams comprising of engineering, finance, commercial, quality and support areas
• Proven ability to manage subcontractors, ensuring delivery of quality products on time and in accordance with contractual obligations
• Exemplary communication skills with experience of using these skills at a senior level within the organisation
• Strong interpersonal, leadership and motivational skills with high self-motivation
• Strong stakeholder management and engagement skills with the ability to influence to achieve the team’s objectives and goals
• Demonstrated problem solving & risk management skills that provide effective and efficient solutions to meet business requirements
• Degree qualification in Project Management, Business, Commercial or Engineering preferable (high desirable)
• The ability to achieve Registered Project Management status with AIPM or equivalent institution is required

About the Team

The Combat Systems Integration – Integrated Project Team (CSI-IPT) is at the forefront of unifying and transforming Australia’s maritime combat systems for a new era of defence. If you’re driven to take on tomorrow’s challenges and play a vital role in shaping national security, we want to connect with you.

Why BAE Systems?

Here you’ll build a career with purpose and limitless possibilities. With lifelong learning and meaningful work – this is a place where you can grow your career with confidence and be empowered to be your best. You’ll be recognised for your contribution and enjoy rewards tailored to what’s most important to you and your family – support for your financial and personal wellbeing, as well as a balanced lifestyle. In an environment embracing sustainable ways of working and with a strong sense of shared purpose, our supportive culture is a place you can feel you belong and proud of the difference you make.

A place where everyone can thrive

We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We know that a diversity of backgrounds, perspectives and experiences strengthens our teams and is vital to the work we do.

We support our veteran community through VetNet Australia, along with initiatives such as Reserve Service Leave, a Veteran Mentoring Program, and partner-supported programs.

We welcome applications from all candidates and strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to apply.

We are proud to be recognised as an employer of choice for women by WORK180 and recipients of the Benchmarcx Top Employer for Candidate Experience Excellence 2026. As members of the Circle Back Initiative, we commit to responding to every applicant.

If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact our recruitment team to discuss the support you may need. You can also connect with us via Careers and Employment.

Security statement

Please note, as a defence security clearance is required for this role, applicants must be Australian citizens and either possess or be eligible to obtain and maintain one. Further information regarding security clearances. (Remove for non-ITAR role) International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) are applicable and as such, your nationality may be a factor in determining your suitability for this role. Please visit this webpage for more information