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

Reporting to the Head of Shared Services, the Materials Engineering and Laboratory Manager is responsible for the safe, efficient and compliant operation of the Materials Engineering and Laboratory function. You will oversee daily laboratory and materials engineering activities, ensure alignment with ASC systems and regulatory standards, and support ongoing capability growth as ASC prepares for future submarine programs including Virginia Class (SSN) sustainment and the AUKUS submarine pathway.

The Materials Engineering and Laboratory function is a critical and growing capability within ASC. It provides high quality materials engineering support and laboratory services across the Multi Class Sustainment Programs and the broader Submarine Enterprise. This team supports submarine maintenance activities for internal stakeholders including ASC Production, ASC Engineering and ASC Program teams, as well as external organisations.

You will ensure compliance with ISO 9001 and ISO 17025 requirements, lead technical governance activities, and maintain ASC’s accreditation and quality systems. A key aspect of the role will be developing, coaching and managing the Materials team to maintain a high level of technical competence, strong collaboration and a culture of continuous improvement.

This position will initially lead a team of 3 to 5 personnel, with the objective of growing the capability to meet emerging program and business needs for ASC.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Materials Engineering and Laboratory function to deliver safe, compliant and high-quality services.
• Ensure compliance with ISO 9001, ISO 17025 and ARPANSA requirements, and maintain relationships with relevant regulatory bodies.
• Oversee daily laboratory operations, materials engineering activities and Laboratory Information Management System administration.
• Provide clear leadership, technical direction and mentoring to the Materials Engineering and Laboratory team.
• Develop and maintain staff competency including supporting the development of technical delegations.
• Lead internal and external audits, quality assessments and continuous improvement activities.
• Support ASC’s long term materials capability strategy, aligned with Corporate Strategy and the needs of Collins Class sustainment, Life of Type Extension, Multiclass Sustainment and future AUKUS build programs.
• Drive simplification of laboratory systems, processes and routines to support efficiency and improved performance.
• Develop and manage budget scope ensuring operations achieve an optimal balance of cost, risk, and quality outcomes.
• Build strong working relationships across ASC, including Production, Engineering, Program teams and senior engineering leadership.
• Engage effectively with external customers and partners across the Submarine Enterprise.
• Promote a high performance, safety focused culture that aligns with ASC values.

About You

• Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Engineering or a related discipline.
• 10+ years’ experience in materials engineering within Defence or heavy industry environments, ideally with exposure to shipbuilding, submarines or aerospace.
• Experience managing laboratory operations and working within ISO 9001 and ISO 17025 and other quality frameworks.
• Strong leadership capability with experience managing cross functional teams in complex technical environments.
• Excellent communication, influencing and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Proven ability to lead change, support transformation and drive continuous improvement.
• Strong commercial awareness and financial literacy.
• Ability to work in dynamic environments, adapt to shifting priorities and maintain collaborative working relationships.
• Experience supporting or leading product validation activities or materials assessment programs.

Eligibility

This role requires a current National Police Clearance, a baseline 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.
• Up to 10 days additional leave every year so you can rest and recharge.
• Professional development opportunities to advance your career.
• A diverse and supportive environment where you can thrive.

About ASC

Established in 1985, ASC’s 2500-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.