Head Of Discipline - Mechanical Engineering

At Thales, we know technology has the ability to make our world more secure, sustainable, and inclusive – and that it’s all driven by human intelligence.

Because it takes human intelligence to build and power the systems and solutions that people depend on every day. So we stay curious and make space for diverse points of view. We share what we know and we challenge what’s possible.

From manufacturing and engineering to cybersecurity and space, we’re driving progress in some of the world’s most important industries – and working together to build a future we can all trust.

Our Benefits

• "Competitive remuneration + Super + Bonus + Free Medical Insurance

• ThalesFlex – Hybrid work environment

• Fitness Passport Discount – Access to a network of Gyms across AUS as cheap as $15.50 P/W

• Employee discounts with a number of affiliates (Travel, Car hire, Tech, Medical Insurance)

• Modernised Paid Parental Leave

• Veterans Leave

• Novated Lease options

• Family support through our partnership with Parents at Work

• Personal & professional training development opportunities

• Sonder – Wellbeing & Support Partner"
   

Our Team
 

Our Above Water Systems team designs and engineers commercial and naval ships – as well as providing in-service support capabilities. We’re proud to bolster Australia’s sovereign capability through operational support to our Navy. With ongoing training programs and a team of over 500, our people have room to grow and move as they make a meaningful contribution to Australia’s Defence.
 

The role

Opportunity for a Head of Discipline – Mechanical Engineering to join our team based in Garden Island. You will play a pivotal role in leading a team of Mechanical Design Engineers, Waterfront Engineers, and Technicians/Draftspersons. Your primary responsibilities include providing professional leadership and engineering services, guiding major bids and projects, and supporting the continuous improvement of AWS Engineering.

Responsibilities will include;

• Lead, mentor, and develop direct reports, fostering their professional growth within the engineering community.

• Provide direction and advice on major bids and projects, ensuring alignment with customer requirements and engineering standards.

• Conduct workforce planning and management for the Mechanical Engineering discipline, optimising resource allocation and competency management.

• Lead engineering activities for major projects and serve as Principal Design Authority when required

• Ensure compliance with Product and Process Policy, manage technical risks, and estimate projects for competitive tenders.
   

Your Experience

• Tertiary qualifications in Mechanical Engineering, preferably with a Chartered Professional Engineer (EA) certification.

• Experience in Mechanical Engineering/Design Engineering of Naval or Maritime Systems.

• Strong leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills, with the ability to lead technical teams effectively.

• Demonstrated capacity for continuous improvement and strategic vision.

• Experience with problem analysis, investigation, and resolution in complex real-time systems.

• Proficiency in digital toolsets such as IPESA, JIRA, DOORS, Objective, and other relevant software engineering tools.

• Ability to empower and unite employees around clear objectives, acting as a coach and servant leader.
   

We Encourage You To Apply
 

After you have applied, you will receive an email acknowledging your application.

We’ll then provide a personalised experience for suitable applicants as we progress the selection and assessment process.

It’s easy to dismiss the perfect opportunity if you don’t see yourself as the perfect fit. If this role feels right – no matter your background or personal circumstances – please introduce yourself or join our community. We’re committed to supporting a diverse workplace, and that starts here.

We’re proud to be endorsed by WORK180 as an Employer for All Women, but we know there’s always more we can do. We’ll continue to foster industry partnerships, employee resource groups (ERGs) and development opportunities to make Thales a genuinely equitable employer, for everyone.

Read more about our WORK180 endorsement.