At BAE Systems Australia

  • 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 currently have multiple new and exciting leadership opportunities for Production Managers to join our SSN-AUKUS business based at Adelaide CBD, SA.

We embrace flexible work arrangements at BAE Systems Australia, such as 9 days fortnight working arrangement

Reporting to the Operations Manager and serving as a key member of the leadership team, you will lead a significant part in supporting the development of the operations functions and delivery of production on the first new build subs program in three decades whilst developing the manufacturing operations team including establishing organizational capability and shaping a high-performance culture that drives excellence in safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance. This also includes in depth understanding and influencing best for build outcome for all aspects of build to test and commissioning.

This also includes the implementing the lessons learnt from SSN AUKUS UK program design and construction, as well as those from Surface ships which are applicable to the BAE Systems whilst ensuring that improvements are formally reported and effectively implemented, resulting in the establishment and sustainment of robust controls and operational effectiveness.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Be responsible to developing key production processes and procedures, resourcing the team and establishing operational facilities
  • Participate in the Build strategy working group to align Australian production requirements to the manufacturing engineering team
    • Support the development of the Concept of Operations (CONOPS) for major production facilities at the Shipyard, influencing the design & arrangement such that the build strategy can be realised and that ways of working are optimised for people, product, flow and efficiency as an operational capability
  • Establish, communicate, and sustain clear operational standards that define best practices ensuring consistency, accountability and continuous improvement across all activities
  • Collaborate across the global business to share and receive best practice from other Manufacturing Operations groups, particularly Naval Ships and Air
  • Build strong engaging relationships with a range of internal and external stakeholders, maintaining/fostering a positive culture and a culture of ownership and collaboration
  • Champion a strong safety and quality culture by embedding disciplined practices, reinforcing compliance and leading by example
  • Build an engaged and accountable team by setting clear expectations/accountability, coaching for performance, recognizing success, and cultivating a high-performance culture

About YOU

  • Significant experience in a complex manufacturing, fabrication and/or operations environment
  • Strong leadership development skill with an ability to coach and build front line leadership
  • An ability to drive sustainable improvement in processes and systems rather than relying on individual effort or short-term fixes
  • Demonstrated professional integrity, interpersonal effectiveness and emotional intelligence, enabling positive influence and collaboration across functions
  • Confident leader in upholding standards and addressing performance issues, providing clear expectations, constructive feedback and accountability at all levels
  • Relevant technical qualification, or defence industry experience, will be highly regarded

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.

About US

You will joining a workplace that truly cares about your wellbeing.

Our people are diverse and we value the variety of perspectives this brings, we know that a culture that is inclusive and fosters a sense of belonging is a place we can all make the most of our unique talents and be our best.

As Australia’s largest defence company in a rapidly growing sector, you will be connected into a global team and encouraged to explore where your career might take you whether that is a traditional career path or squiggly one, there are infinite possibilities for you at BAE Systems Australia.

We welcome applicants from all people regardless of sex, gender identity, race, ethnicity, disability, pregnancy, age, or other lived experience; and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people for all positions.

We are proud to be recognised as an employer of choice for women by WORK180.

Awarded the Benchmarcx ‘Top Employer for Candidate Experience Excellence 2026′. As a member of the Circle Back Initiative we commit to respond 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

Clearances

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 appropriate clearances.

Further information regarding security clearances.

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Company Culture

Life at BAE Systems

Within a growing network of around 100,000 colleagues in more than 40 countries, our teams bring together people with diverse skills, ways of thinking and backgrounds - while our work spans the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of space.

Tackling complex problems. Building innovative solutions. This is a place where you can make real change happen, for your career and the world.

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Inclusion

We want everyone here to feel valued and empowered to thrive. Who you are should never define what you can do. We believe when you bring together different people and perspectives it inspires creativity and drives innovation, helping us fulfil our purpose and is integral to our culture. Everyone is heard and respected here.

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Learning and development

If you’re curious, hungry for more responsibility, and prepared to step out of your comfort zone, there are endless opportunities to grow with us. At every stage of your career our first-class training, coaching and development programmes, role models and mentors will help you embrace your potential and take the next step.

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Rewards and benefits

Great work deserves benefits that go beyond your salary. Whether it’s health, wellbeing, or financial security for you and your family – our flexible benefits help you focus on what’s important to you.

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Making an impact

Together we embrace every opportunity to have a positive impact. On the world around us, our communities, and each other.

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