Energetic Materials Systems Researcher

The key duties of the position include: The Role Within the Weapons Systems function, the Energetic Materials Systems Researcher is accountable, under limited direction, to undertake research on the application of energetic materials in support of Australian Defence Force (ADF) missions. As part of a small team, the successful applicant will focus on the development of additive manufacturing techniques to generate systems containing energetic materials. The work involves the use of additive manufacturing methods to safely produce energetic and non-energetic components, assist in the characterisation of generated effects, and transfer of the knowledge gained to key ADF stakeholders. The applicant will also be expected to conduct routine maintenance on the Asymmetric Weapons & Effects (AWE) fleet of 3D printers, contribute to other Group and Branch energetic materials-related tasks, perform routine laboratory duties and conduct basic upkeep of facilities as part of the AWE Group. About our Team AWE undertakes fundamental and applied research into homemade explosives (HME), pyrotechnics and aspects of Explosive Ordnance (EO) and devices containing these energetic materials. The Group’s primary specialisations of chemistry, physics and engineering (experimental and computational) are utilised to develop and characterise ingredients and formulations, investigate initiation and detonation phenomena, optimise performance, understand safety, ageing, exploitation and environmental issues, and to manufacture and test research and prototype EO and devices in support of key ADF priorities. Our Ideal Candidate The successful applicant will work in an integrated, small team environment to meet both research and operational outcomes, in support of Defence client priorities. They will be required to work in a laboratory environment and undertake routine handling of energetic materials under an established safe system of work. The ideal candidate would Be responsible for application of professional, scientific and engineering standards in the planning and execution of experimentation activities; Be accountable for the maintenance and management of records associated with experimentation and technical activities; Communicate experimentation results effectively to meet the needs of different audiences; Work collaboratively and operate as an effective team member in a multidisciplinary environment to achieve Defence objectives; Take the initiative to identify competing priorities and progress work to meet task deadlines; and Recommend solutions to issues impacting on the achievement of desired outcomes. Eligibility Security Clearance: Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance at “Negative Vetting Level 1”. Mandatory Qualifications: Advanced Diploma or Degree in the fields of Mechanical Engineering, Chemistry or Chemical Engineering from an Australian Institution or demonstrated equivalent experience. Getting to know the Department of Defence The Department of Defence employs around 18,000 Australian Public Service (APS) employees. Defence APS employees work in a wide variety of critical roles, Australia wide, enabling our three services Navy, Army and Air Force, to do their job. Defence has a range of Australian Public Service (APS) career opportunities that offer interesting, challenging, and unique work. Our workforce includes administrative support, accountants, intelligence analysts, engineers, policy advisors, graphic designers, lawyers, social workers, IT specialists and contract managers to name a few. We offer a rewarding career that includes professional development, work-life balance, recognition, a flexible and supportive work environment and a diverse workforce. To find out more about a career with Defence please visit https://www.defence.gov.au/jobs-careers

Location: Adelaide CBD, AU

Posted Date: 2/1/2025