Detail Design Discipline Lead – HVAC & Subcontractors

Job Location:

Adelaide, SA – We offer a range of hybrid and flexible working arrangements – please speak to your recruiter about the options for this particular role.

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:

We have an exciting opportunity become available for a Detail Design Discipline Lead within our HVAC & Subcontractor discipline due to internal promotion to join our Hunter Class Frigate Program at Osborne, SA.

In your new role, you will provide support to the Detail Design HVAC & Subcontractor team with overall guidance and leadership. With your sound knowledge of detail design best practice and various processes improvement techniques, you will provide day-to-day line management to your team of detail designers and sub-contractors.

Core Duties:

• Contribute to the management and delivery of a detail design capability to execute significant engineering packages of work on Hunter Class Frigate Program
• Provide day-to-day line management and career development to a team of detail designers.
• Confirm and verify monthly supplier progress claims.
• Input into contract management and review cycles.
• Manage Subcontractor work scope, personnel, equipment, and site requirements are valid and continuously managed by the subcontractor for conformance to undertake the scope of work
• Be responsible for the continued growth of a highly competent naval detail design capability to undertake complex spatial integration and produce high quality production outputs utilizing the core engineering toolset (FORAN, Windchill, AVEVA ERM, etc.)
• Be accountable for the quality of work conducted and ensure all agreed program targets are met.
• Developing and/or maintaining detail design processes and procedures, such that the team works in a cost effective, repeatable manner producing high quality outputs.
• Be responsible for the identification of continuous improvement activities to increase capability, efficiency, repeatability and quality.
• Actively participate in peer networks across the wider BAE Systems organization, sharing and receiving best practice from BAE Systems UK Naval Ships as they design and build the Type 26 Global Combat Ship.

About YOU:

• Demonstrated Evidence of Detail Design and Subcontractor management leadership experience, ideally within a shipbuilding or maritime sustainment environment, otherwise within relevant heavy engineering.
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing small to medium size teams (12 to 16 people)
• The ability to support multiple stakeholders with competing priorities.
• Minimum two-year Advanced Diploma or Associate Degree in Engineering.
• Strong communication & reporting skills.
• Demonstrated strong stakeholder engagement and management experience.
• A focus on safety in the workplace.
• Preferable but not essential HVAC/Mechanical background.

The Surface Ship

BAE Systems Australia is leading the largest ever surface ship project in Australia’s defence history – the design and build of Hunter class frigates. The Hunter Class Frigate Program is transforming Australia’s shipbuilding industry by supporting the building of a world-class, continuous naval shipbuilding capability for our nation

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 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. 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