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 conventionally armed, 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

ASC’s Innovation Science & Technology (IS&T) team is seeking a Lead Design and Manufacturing Engineer to build and apply hands‑on design and manufacturing capability across our innovation program.

This mid-level role focuses on transforming user needs into innovative physical solutions through the design, development and manufacture of prototypes, fixtures, training aids and experimental hardware. You will play a key role in enabling IS&T’s prototyping capability, governing how design and manufacturing is delivered, and supporting the roll out of this capability across the wider business.

The role operates within a collaborative, safety‑focused and technically governed environment, applying emerging technologies, contemporary manufacturing methods and sound engineering judgement to develop practical solutions in a Defence context. The position involves working across disciplines and contributing to the development of capability and people within the IS&T program.

Responsibilities

This role delivers hands‑on design and manufacturing capability to the IS&T program, supporting innovation outcomes through safe, governed and technically sound application of tools, processes and emerging technologies.

• Lead the design, development and manufacture of prototypes, fixtures, training assemblies and related products.
• Engage with stakeholders to translate user needs into clear, achievable technical requirements and deliverables.
• Apply appropriate safety, WHS&E, risk management and technical governance to all design and manufacturing activities.
• Develop, govern and continuously improve design and manufacturing processes and capability within IS&T and support rollout across the business.
• Operate, maintain and provide technical oversight of IS&T equipment, facilities and manufacturing environments.
• Mentor team members, support capability growth across ASC, and contribute technical input to broader IS&T projects, initiatives and applied technology activities

About You

We are looking for a practical, collaborative technical leader who brings:

• Formal engineering qualifications, or demonstratable experience in a design, manufacturing, maintenance or construction environment.
• Strong proficiency in design, development and/or manufacturing of physical products or prototypes.
• The ability to translate user needs into safe, fit‑for‑purpose technical solutions.
• Hands‑on experience with manufacturing processes, tools, equipment or facilities.
• Sound technical judgement, with an appreciation for governance, risk and safety.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills and the ability to work across disciplines.
• A mindset suited to innovation environments that are evolving, ambiguous and fast moving.

We welcome candidates from a range of technical backgrounds who can demonstrate relevant experience, capability and practical application of design and manufacturing principles.

Eligibility

This role requires a current National Police Clearance and an Australian Defence Security Clearance up to an NV1 level. Your eligibility for this role is dependent on you obtaining and maintaining such clearance.

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.

About ASC

 ASC’s 2,400-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. Established in 1985, the company’s work on Australia’s conventionally armed, 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.

Adelaide, South Australia (SA), combines cosmopolitan living with natural beauty, featuring picturesque hills, renowned wineries, and stunning coastlines. As a centre for innovation, SA offers careers in defence, space and advanced manufacturing. Celebrated for its Mediterranean climate and cultural richness, Adelaide provides excellent work/life balance. Explore world-class wineries, enjoy the vibrant food scene, and experience affordable, family-friendly living in a welcoming, community-oriented city.