Senior Data Engineer (TSPV Cleared)

Location: Canberra or Melbourne (Onsite)
Contract: 12 months + 2 x 12-month extensions
Start Date: September 2026

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Senior Data Engineer (APS6-equivalent) to support critical Defence programs within the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD). This is a high-impact role working in a secure environment, focused on building and optimising data capabilities that underpin national security outcomes.

You will play a key role in designing, building and maintaining scalable data pipelines and ensuring data is accessible, secure and fit for advanced analytics.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyse and solve complex data engineering challenges
• Design and implement robust data pipelines and data platforms
• Build and maintain environments for data ingestion, transformation and integration
• Develop and manage data models, storage solutions and analytical datasets
• Improve data interoperability, transmission and access across systems
• Ensure data quality, security and compliance across storage and pipelines
• Contribute to risk management practices relating to data usage and security
• Prepare documentation including data designs, models and future state plans

Skills & Experience

• Strong experience in Data Engineering within complex environments
• Proficiency in programming and data tools (e.g. Python, SQL, ETL tools)
• Experience implementing data quality controls, cleansing and transformation
• Hands-on experience with data pipelines and integration frameworks
• Understanding of data modelling and storage management
• Ability to work in a highly secure, mission-critical environment

Essential Criteria

• Data Modelling & Design (SFIA Level 4):
  Ability to plan and execute data modelling activities, providing guidance on data structures

• Data Use & Re-use (DCF Level 2):
  Understanding of data sharing principles and enabling data reusability

• Data Integration (DCF Level 2):
  Experience integrating datasets and applying quality controls using standard tools

• Storage Management (SFIA Level 4):
  Ability to monitor and maintain storage systems ensuring performance, security and availability

Security Requirements

• Mandatory: Current TSPV clearance
• Ability to obtain and maintain Positive Vetting (PV)
• Employer must hold DISP membership

Working Arrangements

• Onsite role in ACT or VIC
• Up to 40 hours per week
• Work-from-home options may be limited due to operational requirements

About ASD

The Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) is a key agency within the Defence portfolio, responsible for protecting Australia against global threats through intelligence, cyber security, and offensive cyber operations. Candidates must complete an Organisation Suitability Assessment (OSA) prior to commencement.

Application Process

• Job closes: 1 July 2026 (11:59pm Canberra time)