Quality Engineering Lead

Job Description

At BAE Systems Australia

• Be part of the largest and most complex industrial undertaking in Australia’s history – SSN AUKUS
• Do interesting work that MATTERS
• GROW your career
• Be YOU

We work in a thriving sector – one that puts us at the forefront of exciting and meaningful work. Every day we push boundaries to produce some of the world’s most innovative and groundbreaking technology, including SSN AUKUS. We have been selected by the Australian Government to jointly build the nation’s conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines. Every role in our SSN AUKUS team is helping to deliver essential sovereign capability for Australia.

Recognised for delivering projects of global and national significance that help keep Australia safe, it is our shared passion that shapes our culture, and our people that make it a great place to work.

About the Opportunity

We have an opportunity for a Quality Engineering Lead to join the SSN AUKUS Program, based in Flinders Street or Osborne, reporting to the Head of Quality on permanent full-time basis.

This is a newly created role within a rapidly growing program, where you’ll develop the inspection and test plans (ITP) aligned with the build strategy and drawings and the delta ITPs require for change implementation. Extensive professional development also on offer including Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP), nuclear and enterprise systems.

Enjoy flexible work options, including hybrid work and a 9-day fortnight. Note, some domestic/international travel and after-hours meetings with UK stakeholders required.

Key responsibilities include:

• Develop Inspection and Test Plans aligned to build strategy and Stage 3 drawings, including Delta ITPs for change implementation
• Conduct Failure Modes and Effects Analysis in line with APQP requirements
• Develop inspection and test forms covering assurance activities (e.g. NDT, dry surveys, tank testing)
• Lead quality investigations, analyse quality metrics, and drive root cause improvements
• Identify and assess new technologies to improve productivity
• Develop and maintain the Completion Management Environment and assurance records
• Facilitate Build Assurance Working Groups
• Manage Preliminary Review Boards for Non-Conformance Reports
• Lead Program Material Review Boards, including actions and reporting

About You

• Must hold a Mechanical or Electrical Engineering degree, or an advanced trade qualification
• Background in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering within complex manufacturing or engineering environments
• Quality experience including supplier approval processes, ITP development/approval, and ISO 9001
• Strong understanding of inspection planning, quality assurance, and root cause analysis
• Ability to navigate ambiguity and operate in evolving environments
• Experience building processes, practices and frameworks from the ground up
• Experience in early-phase or build environments, managing competing priorities and supporting program establishment
• Ability to lead investigations and drive continuous improvement
• Experience working across cross-functional teams and stakeholders

We believe in hiring for potential, we know that some candidates hesitate if they don’t tick all the boxes. If this role interests you, but you don’t meet all the criteria, we still encourage you to apply.

Application REQUIREMENTS & CLEARANCES:

To apply, please send through an updated CV. 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. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) are applicable and as such, your nationality may be a factor in determining your suitability for this role.

About US

Join a workplace that genuinely cares about your wellbeing. We value diversity and know that an inclusive culture helps everyone thrive. As Australia’s largest defence company in a growing industry, you’ll be part of a global team with endless career opportunities, whether your path is traditional or takes unexpected turns.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to apply. We are proud to be recognised as an employer of choice for women by WORK180 and Awarded the Benchmarcx ‘Top Employer for Candidate Experience Excellence 2026′. As a member of the Circle Back Initiative, we commit to responding to every applicant.

To learn more about our competitive employee benefits, flexibility, other employment opportunities and what to expect from our recruitment process please visit: www.baesystemscareers.com.au.