Production Planning Lead

Job Location: Osborne, South Australia – We offer a range of 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:

The Production Planning Lead is responsible for leading a team to develop and maintain production schedules and all related job cards, material planning and reporting in their assigned area within the Production Planning Teams.

Core Duties:

• Lead the team in the creation of a detailed Production Schedule with Work Orders and Job Cards.
• Supervise, coach and educate planners and maintain a focus on the customer needs coupled with a desire to remove non value added activities.
• Monitor progress, analyse and report on the production schedule to both internal and external customers.
• Responsible for the team producing Job Cards and DRL’s in line with production planning processes, work instructions and checklists ensuring the quality of outputs is consistent.
• Assist with identifying and developing reports and procedures to enable team measurement and improved departmental performance.
• Interrogation of technical/engineering information using 3D model or 2D drawings to develop best practice work breakdown.
• Review the team’s assessment of production budgets and schedules and actively work with project scheduling teams to ensure alignment with project budgets.
• Assist in the Performance Development Reviews of employees.
• Actively Identify process improvement.
• Perform other relevant and appropriate duties as required.

Essential Skills:

• Significant experience in a Production, Scheduling/ Production Planning type role, preferably in the heavy engineering industries or equivalent tertiary qualifications or production trade experience.
• Demonstrated experience in the ability to read and interpret technical drawings.
• Demonstrated understanding of Engineering, Supply Chain and Operations requirements and processes.
• Trade qualification or working in an engineering, shipbuilding or manufacturing environment.
• Project Management fundamentals (desirable)
• Must be eligible to apply for Australian Defence Security Clearance.
• Eligible to obtain and maintain a Defence Security clearance and be cleared for International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR)

The Hunter Class Frigate Team

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.

The Hunter class frigates are based on BAE Systems’ Type 26 Global Combat Ship design, modified to meet the Royal Australian Navy’s operational requirements.

Each warship will feature an acoustically-quiet hull and unique sonar capabilities, modular digital design and open systems architecture to facilitate through-life support and upgrades as new technology develops.

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. 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