Program Manager

At Thales, we know technology has the ability to make our world more secure, sustainable, and inclusive – and that it’s all driven by human intelligence.

Because it takes human intelligence to build and power the systems and solutions that people depend on every day. So we stay curious and make space for diverse points of view. We share what we know and we challenge what’s possible.

From manufacturing and engineering to cybersecurity and space, we’re driving progress in some of the world’s most important industries – and working together to build a future we can all trust.

Thales Australia is a leading provider of systems, products, and services across the defence, security, and civil markets, both in Australia and globally. Our AWS business offers ship repair, maintenance, and asset management services for both commercial and naval vessels. Additionally, we provide docking, reticulated services, and facility maintenance at Garden Island.

Are you ready to take on a pivotal leadership role in a dynamic, high-impact environment? As part of our Defence Mission Systems business, our AWS team is currently seeking a seasoned Program Manager.

This pivotal role will see you responsible for the delivery of the Dock Operations and Reticulated Services Contract (DORSC) program of works. This is a strategic contract for Thales Australia where you will oversee a diverse mix of operations and maintenance within the Garden Island Defence Precinct where we operate the largest graving dock in the southern hemisphere.

Located centrally in Wooloomooloo's Garden Island, on Gadigal land your role purpose will be:

• Provide stewardship over the entire program, including routine services, the dockyard capability maintenance program, planned maintenance baseline review program, operation of the maintenance material staging facility and the CCGD civil maintenance program

• Deliver Customer-Centric solutions and align and guide a large, diverse team to achieve contract delivery within budget, schedule, and performance goals

• Serve as a key interface for stakeholders, including the Navy, Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group, and Estate & Infrastructure Group

• Monitor performance metrics, mitigate risks, and drive customer satisfaction while expanding Thales service offerings

• Champion Safety and Compliance

On day one in this role, we'll expect you to bring the following skills, experience and behaviours:

• Must have solid experience in managing large-scale contracts, meeting KPIs, and leading multi-disciplinary teams to success

• Familiarity with Navy engineering, maintenance systems and Defence Seaworthiness Management System

• Strong understanding of contracted requirements, technical specifications, and functional standards

• Demonstrated leadership, strong interpersonal skills, and experience leading multi-disciplinary teams

• Relevant tertiary qualification in Engineering, Business, or a related field

• Skilled at navigating complexity and ambiguity to make effective commercial and financial decisions

• Ideally, familiarity with ASDEFCON Complex/Strategic Contracting Framework

• Tertiary qualification in business, engineering, project management, or a related discipline and IPMA Certification or ability to secure certification

• Knowledge of Lean or Six Sigma continuous improvement methodologies

• Ability to obtain Australian Defence Clearances

• Ability to work onsite

As part of our commitment, we offer:

• Competitive remuneration + Super + Bonus + Medical Insurance

• ThalesFlex – Hybrid work environment

• Recognised leader in reservist employee support

• Veterans Leave

• Fitness Passport Discount – Access to a network of Gyms across AUS

• Employee discounts with a number of affiliates (Travel, Car hire, Tech, Medical Insurance)

• Modernised Paid Parental Leave

• Novated Lease options

• Family support through our partnership with Parents at Work

• Personal & professional training development opportunities

• Sonder – Wellbeing & Support Partner

• Access to a network of the best people (A Nobel Prize winner on our staff list!)

• And much more!

Good to Know

Prior to being offered employment, you will need to complete pre-employment police and (role dependent) medical checks.

It’s easy to dismiss the perfect opportunity if you don’t see yourself as the perfect fit. If this role feels right – no matter your background or personal circumstances – please introduce yourself or join our community. We’re committed to supporting a diverse workplace, and that starts here.

We’re proud to be endorsed by WORK180 as an Employer for All Women, but we know there’s always more we can do. We’ll continue to foster industry partnerships, employee resource groups (ERGs) and development opportunities to make Thales a genuinely equitable employer, for everyone.

Read more about our WORK180 endorsement.