Senior Engineering Specialist

Senior Engineering Specialist (Communications)
Position in Aerodrome Platform Systems Engineering

Position Overview:
In this role, you will be responsible for the technical performance, maintenance, and enhancement of operational systems used across various aviation facilities. The role focuses on providing specialist expertise in communications engineering, contributing to critical technology replacement programs, and ensuring that the systems meet all technical and performance standards while remaining reliable and secure for continued use across the aviation industry.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee system design, maintenance, and support activities across the system lifecycle, following organizational safety, system management frameworks, and policies
• Apply Systems Engineering expertise in the planning, design, acquisition, and implementation of new systems or upgrades to existing ones
• Manage technology changes and implement robust configuration management and change control processes
• Track and manage risks associated with ongoing programs and projects
• Provide expert technical leadership, advising on safety and security considerations related to system design and implementation

Position-Specific Accountabilities:

• Design and develop technical specifications and standards that align with customer requirements
• Lead detailed investigations into complex system issues, providing analysis, diagnosis, and implementing solutions
• Prepare, review, and participate in system testing (e.g., test plans, test cases) for new system deployments, enhancements, and software updates
• Collect and analyze system performance data, recognizing trends and recommending improvements for system reliability and maintainability
• Prepare documentation related to system upgrades, including system requirements, project proposals, and cost estimates
• Ensure the ongoing technical integrity of systems by managing and tracking system changes
• Report and address safety hazards associated with supported systems within designated timeframes
• Provide expert technical guidance to the technology replacement program
• Engage in cross-training to expand specialized knowledge and skills
• Stay updated with industry advancements, standards, and regulatory requirements

Collaboration and People Management:

• Foster effective relationships with internal teams to coordinate activities supporting organizational goals
• Demonstrate leadership by modeling positive behaviors and supporting team dynamics
• Contribute to knowledge sharing, coaching, and mentoring junior team members
• Participate actively in a high-performance, accountable team culture

Compliance and Reporting:

• Adhere to organizational technology management frameworks, policies, and procedures
• Follow security and information management guidelines and standards
• Demonstrate commitment to safety, following established risk management processes and identifying system safety risks
• Contribute to hazard reviews, safety assessments, and relevant reporting

Key Performance Indicators:

• Effective time management and prioritization of tasks based on significance and urgency
• Achieve organizational objectives and performance metrics for solution architecture and system design
• Exhibit sound financial and risk management judgment, particularly in vendor relations and contract management

Qualifications and Experience:

Essential

• Degree in Engineering or Information Technology from an accredited institution or equivalent qualification
• Eligibility for professional engineering registration (e.g., Registered Professional Engineer in relevant jurisdiction)
• Ability to obtain and maintain an Australian Government National Security Clearance (NV1 level)
• Strong background in applying Systems Engineering practices across the SDLC and system management processes
• Extensive experience in designing, testing, and implementing robust software systems with a focus on quality assurance and configuration management
• Proven ability to manage stakeholder relationships and vendor engagement
• Ability to work independently and lead within a senior technical team, contributing to achieving team goals
• Exceptional documentation skills, including preparation and review of system design and architecture documents

Highly Desirable

• Experience with air traffic management systems, including N-tier architectures and distributed systems, real-time systems, message handling systems, and internet technologies

Desirable

• Familiarity with Information Security Manual (ISM) and demonstrated application of ISM principles
• Knowledge of DO-278A software assurance guidelines and relevant processes and artefacts

Skills and Competencies:
This role requires a high level of technical expertise, particularly in systems engineering, software development, testing, and integration. It is also essential to manage complex change processes effectively and ensure compliance with safety and security regulations.