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Saab Global
project management

Program Manager - Defence Industry

Adelaide,
Australia
Closing date: 13 August 2026

The role

As part of our Engineering and Sustainment group, the Program Manager will be accountable for the delivery of a scope of work for a major maritime defence program, ensuring outcomes are achieved in accordance with the approved schedule, scope and budget. They will provide leadership and direction to a high performing engineering and project management team, and establish strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Further, the successful candidate will:

  • Be accountable for current and future Tasking Statements and Contract Change Proposals, ensuring all Tasking Statements have established and appropriately maintained baselines for scope, cost, schedule and risk.
  • Lead and direct the team to achieve complex program outcomes to meet schedule and cost objectives.
  • Communicate relevant program information across the stakeholders to assist with optimised decision making and timeliness.
  • Establish and maintain the organisational chart for execution and plan the resource demand in collaboration with business operations.
  • Authorise the PMB, WADs and WOs and assign suitably qualified CAMs to manage the scope delivery within acceptable performance criteria.
  • Institute a robust risk and opportunity management culture targeting the risk appetite in collaboration with the PMO.
  • Provide regular updates and address Action Items in a timely manner as directed by the Governance and Leadership Board (GLB) and Principals Council (PC).
  • Act as the executive authority for all scoped delivery activities
  • Establish executable plans and schedules for all scopes of work.
  • Monitor performance of key team members and provide mentoring and guidance where necessary to assist with team development and growth.

Flexible work arrangements such as hybrid work from home / office and a 9-day fortnight will be considered for this role.

About you

Your skills and experience will include:

  • A Tertiary qualification(s) in a science, engineering or business discipline.
  • 15+ years managing projects, preferably in a complex program environment like defence industry.
  • Good understanding of best practice project management.
  • Managing and leading complex systems projects.
  • Ability to lead staff within a team environment and to foster cooperation within and between teams.
  • A collaborative, accountable and results-orientated mindset.
  • Meeting the requirements of Australian Institute of Project Management CPPD accreditation or similar.
  • Proven experience in Cost Schedule System Reporting (CSSR) or related Earned Value Management system.

Applicants must be Australian citizens and hold or be able to obtain an Australian Defence Security Clearance to NV1 level. Information including past and present nationality and citizenship may be requested to check eligibility for access to materials controlled under various export control regimes, including ITAR.

About us

Saab Australia is a defence, security and cyber solutions provider, specialising in the development and integration of major defence and security systems. For over 35 years in Australia, we have built a reputation for delivering complex systems integration projects that provide proven and advanced capabilities to keep us ahead of today’s challenges.

From combat, communications, security and underwater systems, to mixed reality, cyber security and deployable health solutions, our extensive portfolio of products and services provide high-technology solutions for defence forces and civil industries across the globe.

Apply today to join our crew and deliver solutions with purpose!

What you will be part of

Explore a wealth of possibilities. Take on challenges, create smart inventions, and grow beyond. This is a place for curious minds, brave pioneers, and everyone in between. Together, we achieve the extraordinary, each bringing our unique perspectives. Your part matters.

Saab is a leading defence and security company with an enduring mission, to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 26,000 talented people, Saab constantly pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer and more sustainable world.

Saab designs, manufactures and maintains advanced systems in aeronautics, weapons, command and control, sensors and underwater systems. Saab is headquartered in Sweden. It has major operations all over the world and is part of the domestic defence capability of several nations. Read more about us here.

Culture and benefits

We employ over 1000 Australians and are committed to fostering a culture of excellence and enriching the employee experience.

By joining Saab, you’ll be a part of a collaborative and supportive organisation, where your professional growth and work-life balance are emphasised. You’ll work within an innovative and vibrant workplace, while having the opportunity to develop a long-term, fulfilling career.

As a valued team member of Saab Australia, you’ll access a variety of perks and benefits to support you and your family including:

  • 6 weeks paid leave each year
  • 14% superannuation
  • Free Income Protection Insurance
  • Flexible working options
  • Access to the Saab shares matching scheme
  • Access to MySaab - our online store offering everything from cash back at hundreds of stores to discounts from exclusive partners

For further information about a career at Saab, visit the page adjacent: https://www.saab.com/markets/australia/careers/saab-life

Applications

Click ‘Apply’ to submit your CV and cover letter in support of your application. Kindly observe that this is an ongoing recruitment process and in exceptional circumstances, the position might be filled before the closing date of the advertisement. We encourage applications as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

By submitting an application to Saab, you consent to undertaking workforce screening activities including, but not limited to, reference checks, Australian Federal Police check, verification of working rights and qualifications, sanctions screening and a pre-employment medical declaration.

Saab Australia is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders to apply. We also welcome applications from individuals with culturally diverse backgrounds.

Saab Australia is a nationally recognised Veteran Employer of Choice that welcomes the interest of ex-service members, veterans and their families.