Project Manager – Surface Ships, Innovation Program

Job Location: This role is based in Adelaide SA.

We offer a range of flexible working arrangements including hybrid working and a 9-day fortnight.

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 are seeking a dynamic and adaptable Project Manager to join our BAE Systems Australia Surface Ships Innovation Program. This is a rare opportunity to work on cutting‑edge concept projects that shape the future of Australian shipbuilding and sustainment.

Reporting to the Operations Manager, you will plan, execute and deliver innovative, early‑stage and concept-driven projects. These projects are often complex, fast‑moving and not fully defined – requiring you to bring structure, clarity and momentum in ambiguous environments.

You will collaborate closely with engineering and technical teams, industry partners, universities, customers and suppliers to:

• test and mature new concepts,
• develop and validate prototypes,
• simulate behaviours, and
• embed successful outcomes into real‑world maritime production and sustainment environments

This is not a traditional delivery role. You will be at the forefront of innovation, helping translate research and ideas into practical, value‑driven solutions that improve efficiency, safety, productivity and quality across the maritime sector.

Core Duties:

• Apply effective project management principles to initiate, plan, execute and deliver innovation projects
• Define and manage scope, schedules, costs and success criteria, balancing trade‑offs between time, cost, quality and risk
• Lead and collaborate with multidisciplinary R&T, technical and engineering teams
• Drive needs analysis to ensure concepts align with strategic business, customer and stakeholder objectives
• Proactively identify, manage and mitigate project risks and opportunities
• Maintain project baselines and governance in line with organisational standards
• Foster a collaborative, high‑performance culture across internal and external stakeholders, including customers, suppliers and subcontractors

About You

• Tertiary qualification in Project Management (or equivalent industry experience), with proven experience applying project management fundamentals within technical orengineering environments
• Proven ability to define and shape project scope, construct schedules and timelines, and identify what is viable
• Experience delivering defence, engineering or complex technical projects
• A strong track record of delivering projects to cost, schedule and performance targets
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and relationship‑building skills
• An existing Australian Defence Security Clearance or eligibility to obtain one

About the Program

At BAE Systems Australia Surface Ships, we are delivering projects of national and global significance that help keep Australia safe. Working at the forefront of maritime innovation, our people push boundaries, turn ideas into reality, and make the impossible possible – together.

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. (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