Senior Linux Tech Lead – Fleet Information Environment Modernisation

At Downer Professional Services (DPS), we are committed to delivering outcomes that put Australia’s interests first. We work on complex and impactful Defence, government, and infrastructure projects that shape the future of our nation. Our people are at the core of our success, bringing expertise, innovation, and leadership to critical Defence programs.

Our Technical, Advisory, and Capability (TAC) practice and Team Downer (the prime Major Service Provider (MSP)) deliver above-the-line consulting services and Integrated Work Packages across the Department of Defence, leveraging innovative approaches such as mission and digital engineering to enable the successful delivery of critical Defence programs. This includes engagement with key areas across Defence including Defence Digital Group (DDG), Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group (CASG), and the Navy, Army, and Air Force.

We are currently seeking a Senior Linux Tech Lead for the next phase of a Fleet Information Environment (FIE) Modernisation program delivering a cyber-hardened, integrated, sustainable, and networked mission system that enables the Royal Australian Navy to 'fight and win at sea'. The aim of the FIE modernisation project is to deliver to Navy a suite of integrated ICT systems, applications and infrastructure (Minerva) that supports both deployed operations and day-to-day administrative activities, where ships and submarine crews are located. 

The position will undertake the Senior Linux Tech Lead role functions, performing the following activities: 

• Develop, build and implement Linux operating systems. 
• Mentoring Linux SME’s. 
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to gather requirements and ensure Linux server setup aligns with organisational needs.
• Integrate complex ICT infrastructure software and applications with Linux operating systems. 
• Analyse, log, track, and resolve complex issues pertaining to Linux SOEs, and integrated business applications. 
• Implement hardening measures to ensure the security and resilience of Linux servers.
• Develop and maintain a library of reliable and reusable automated builds to streamline system configuration and improve operational efficiency.
• Collaborate with system architects to design and develop POCs using various technologies.
• Research and evaluate new technologies and tools to determine their feasibility and potential benefits for the organisation.
• Create and peer review Standard Operating Procedure documentation (SOPs), build guides and related artefacts.

Required skills and experience:

• Experience working in Defence as a Linux Technician. 
• Demonstrated experience and knowledge in Linux servers and virtual systems in hyper-converged infrastructure and across distributed environments. 
• Demonstrated experience and knowledge in technologies and services including Ansible, GITLab, YUM, RHEL 7.x-9.x 
• Demonstrated ability to take customer requirements, standards and frameworks and apply in a practical application to future proposed solution designs and systems. 
• Strong communication, interpersonal and negotiation skills with demonstrable experience of presentation and engagement with stakeholders, projects and business areas. 

Desirable skills and experience:

• Knowledge and experience of the Minerva systems. 
• Demonstrated ability to rapidly build, automate and deliver proof of concept systems to support analysis, testing, accreditation and development activities within a DevSecOps framework. 
• Experience with governance frameworks in relation to infrastructure service and security delivery including required subsystems (i.e. Australia Information Security Manual (ISM)). 
• Experience with applying cyber-security controls and practices aligned to zero-trust architecture principles. 
• Experience with ADF deployed environments/platforms and the unique networking, support and security constraints. 

This opportunity is based in Canberra or Sydney, the successful candidates will need a Defence industry background, ideally experienced in the Maritime domain. If you have the expertise to support Defence operations, we’d love to hear from you.

Our work is highly complex and confidential, applicants must be Australian citizens with a minimum NV2 security clearance. Additionally, compliance with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) requirements may be necessary. In some cases, this may impose restrictions on individuals who are dual citizens. nationality, permanent residency, or former nationality of specific countries as outlined in ITAR 126.1. 

More than anything, you’ll bring a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and a commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes for our clients.

Why join Downer Professional Services? 

At Downer Professional Services, we’re not just a workplace, we’re a business dedicated to contributing to the shaping of the future of defence in Australia. As the country’s only sovereign prime, we’re committed to making a real difference in protecting Australia’s interests. 

• Dynamic employment arrangements – Downer offers tailored employment arrangements, designed specifically to reflect the unique Defence Industry workforce.
• Benefit from a referral program aimed at building the strongest workforce – We value strong working relationships built on skills, and proven delivery. Refer a friend and you will benefit. 
• Be first in line for future opportunities – By joining our talent network, you’ll receive priority consideration for upcoming roles that align with your skills and career goals, ensuring you stay ahead of the curve.
• Invest in your growth – We believe in continuous learning. Whether it’s through structured skills & career mapping, mentoring, training programs, or our Summer and Winter Schools for accelerated learning, we provide the resources to help you advance in your career.
• Strong veteran support & Inclusion Initiatives – We actively support Defence veterans with policies including up to 20 days of Reservist Leave to help you transition while staying connected to service.
• Work on projects that matter – You’ll have the chance to contribute to career-defining projects that support Australia’s sovereign capability and national security, delivering real impact in Defence, government, and infrastructure.
• Collaborate with Industry experts – You’ll work alongside highly skilled professionals and leaders in a supportive and collaborative environment, where knowledge-sharing and professional development are at the core of what we do.
• Enjoy a range of perks & benefits – As part of Perks@Downer, you’ll have access to discounted healthcare, savings on retail and car purchases, and exclusive industry benefits to support your lifestyle.

Let’s connect

If you’re interested in future opportunities with Downer Professional Services, register your Interest today. Simply apply now, and we’ll be in touch as relevant roles become available. 

Downer Group is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, including First Nations people and those from culturally and linguistically diverse communities.

At Downer Professional Services, we’re not just a workplace—we’re a business dedicated to contributing to the shaping of the future of defence in Australia. As the country’s only sovereign prime, we’re committed to making a real difference in protecting Australia’s interests.