Operations Subcontract Manager

Job Location: Osborne, SA – We offer a range of hybrid and flexible working arrangements – please speak to your recruiter about the options for this 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 a great opportunity for an Operations Subcontract Manager to join our Maritime team. Reporting to the Ship Manager, the Operations Subcontract Manager is responsible for the establishment, mobilisation and management of Operations Subcontractors.

This role requires a high level of both commercial and shipbuilding experience to ensure contracts are established in a manner such that they can be effectively managed in the Production environment and that they align with the overall Production Build Strategy.

Core Duties:

• Develop Operations Subcontract Statement of Works to ensure clear scope demarcation and alignment with the overall Production Build Strategy
• Work closely with the Supply Chain function to establish the required Operations Subcontracts in accordance with the Make vs Buy strategy
• Manage the Operations Subcontractor workforce during the production phase, to ensure seamless integration and coordination with the overall production workforce
• Ensure all production work scope is coordinated safely and efficiently, to achieve the required schedule and quality requirements
• Manage and provide leadership to the Operations Sub-contracting team
• Assist with the development and maintenance of the Production Schedule and ensure accurate reporting of progress
• Monitor and review, in accordance with established program management processes and governance, the production schedule activities and budget, including Earned Value Management
• Oversee subcontractor resourcing, ensuring demands are continually monitored and forecasted
• Work closely with the Supply Chain function to ensure commercial management of subcontracts through effective commercial and correspondence administration including payment, milestones, claims, notices/letters, flow down of contract amendments and change requests.
• Work closely with the Project Team and broader internal stakeholders, proactively managing the performance of suppliers, ensuring that the Project achieves the required performance

About You:

• Trade Qualification or Project Management certification or proven equivalent Shipbuilding Operations experience
• Demonstrated experience with managing sub-contractors in a Commercial Operation environment
• Understanding of the commercial elements of the Shipbuilding Production Environment
• Demonstrated Operations Management experience, including day to day management and coordination of the production work scope
• Ability to consider projects and make decisions in the context of the broader business strategy
• Build strategic relationships with internal and external stakeholders
• Ability to motivate individuals and teams across a number of business areas, to deliver project requirements
• Ability to balance conflicting priorities to deliver against customer and business requirements, with appropriate stakeholder engagement
• Ability to negotiate with and influence internal and/ or external stakeholders in a way which generates business benefit whilst maintaining key relationships
• Defence security clearance or eligibility to obtain
• Eligibility to be cleared for International Traffic In Arms (ITAR) regulations

The Destroyer Capability Enhancement (DCE) program

BAE Systems Australia’s maritime workforce built and lead the sustainment of the Royal Australian Navy’s three Hobart class air warfare destroyers — HMAS Hobart, HMAS Brisbane, and HMAS Sydney. The Hobart Class AED’s carry a helicopter for surveillance, conduct surface and undersea warfare and carry naval gunfire capabilities. As Managing Contractor – Destroyer Enterprise, we led the transition into service for each ship.

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. (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