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Head of Nuclear Engineering

  • 976035
  • Henderson
  • Engineering
  • Full time
  • Closing on: Jun 27 2025
  • Demonstrated experience within Nuclear Engineering
  • Proven ability to lead high performing teams in complex environments
  • Regular travel interstate and international will be required to work together with trilateral partners

ASC is Australia’s submarine company. We built the Royal Australian Navy’s Collins Class submarines, sustain them, and are now delivering their Life of Type Extension to increase the boats’ service lives. We have also been selected by the Australian Government to sustain and jointly build the nation’s nuclear-powered submarines – the largest and most complex industrial undertaking in Australia’s history.

Our work is interesting and meaningful, contributing directly to Australia’s national security. We offer rewarding roles that provide the opportunity to grow your career, and the flexibility to balance life and work. A career at ASC is like no other, delivering a deeper purpose we can all be proud of.

About the Opportunity

The Head of Nuclear Engineering is a direct report to the SSN Sustainment Program Director and has supervisory and managerial responsibility for technical direction and engineering project coordination for nuclear work at HMAS Stirling and Henderson Naval Precinct.  Areas of supervisory and managerial responsibility include (but are not limited to): ship’s reactor plant mechanical, electrical, and structural hardware and systems; reactor plant testing; reactor temporary equipment and systems; facilities and support systems; lifting and handling; material; quality and process; recruiting, training, and development; project engineering and planning; and waterfront operations and support.  Additionally, technical direction will be provided for liquid transfer and processing; radiological waste storage, disposal, and shipment; radiological surveys and sampling.

Responsibilities

  • The Head of Nuclear Engineering provides direct administrative and technical supervision for the following functions in Western Australia (WA):
    • Nuclear Project Engineering, Planning, and Budgeting
    • Nuclear Material Procurement, Warehousing, Distribution, and Compliance
    • Nuclear Quality Engineering
    • Reactor Structural Engineering and Support Systems
    • Fluid Systems and Mechanical Engineering
    • Electrical and Control Engineering
    • Nuclear Facilities and Waste Management
    • Nuclear Engineering Recruiting, Training, and Development
    • Nuclear Test Engineering
  • Additionally, the Head of Nuclear Engineering provides training and development for Radiological Engineering

About you 

  • Engineering qualifications and experience meeting the requirements of a Chartered Professional Engineer.
  • Formal qualifications in nuclear science and/or engineering recognised by AUKUS partner countries.
  • Tertiary or post-graduate education in nuclear engineering, nuclear science, physics or related major.
  • Extensive knowledge of related engineering fields such as mechanical, electrical, and nuclear.
  • Knowledge sufficient to respond to a significant radiological casualty and maintain qualification as a responder in the radiological emergency response organization.
  • 20+ years of practical experience including five (5) years in a senior position within the nuclear industry, particularly in the fields of defence or power.
  • Demonstrated experience of successfully dealing with diverse stakeholders and achieving required outcomes in highly technical or regulated environments.
  • Strong knowledge of Australian nuclear regulatory licence requirements and demonstrated ability to apply legislation to program.
  • Strong knowledge of submarines, navy, or defence.
  • Demonstrated ability to identify and implement interventions and high-quality solutions to complex problems.
  • Demonstrated ability to grow, lead and develop high performing teams in complex high stakes environments. 
  • Ability to set clear organisational standards and guardrails.

Eligibility

This role requires a current National Police Clearance, an Australian Defence Security Clearance and an ability to access protected US defence technology. Your eligibility for this role is dependent on you obtaining and maintaining such clearances and approvals.

Whilst ASC will accept all applications for this role, as this role requires an ability to access protected US defence technology, applicants holding nationality of certain foreign countries will not be eligible.

To check your eligibility please visit the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency website.

Benefits

  • Unique and challenging work with a deeper purpose.
  • Flexibility over how, when and where you work for the best work/life balance.
  • Up to 10 days additional leave every year so you can rest and recharge.
  • Generous parental leave so you can give your family the focus it deserves.
  • Subsidised childcare to ease the financial pressure on your family.
  • Health and wellbeing initiatives so you can perform at your best at work.
  • Professional development opportunities to advance your career.
  • A diverse and supportive environment where you can thrive.
  • Discounts and exclusive offers from leading Australian brands to help you save.

About ASC

Established in 1985, ASC’s 1900-plus staff offer a depth of submarine design, project management, supply chain, construction and engineering experience and expertise that is unparalleled in Australia’s defence industry. The company’s work on Australia’s nuclear-powered submarine build and the Collins Class Life of Type Extension takes place in Osborne, South Australia, with sustainment shared across Osborne and Henderson, Western Australia. ASC also plays a leading role in training Royal Australian Navy submariners.

Apply today for a career with a deeper purpose.

Early applications are encouraged as shortlisting may commence immediately.

Apply Now

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