Operations Manager

Job Location: Wagga Wagga,

Who we are:

Join BAE Systems and you'll be part of something bigger. As a valued member of our global colleague network, you'll bring your unique skills and perspectives to help pioneer progress and protect what matters most. You'll be trusted to play your part in delivering the advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions of tomorrow - shaping a safer future, for all of us.

From the depths of the ocean, to the far reaches of space - there's no limit to where a career at BAE Systems could take you.

Role Description:

The Operations Manager is responsible for leading operational activities that support the successful delivery of complex training and capability projects. The role ensures effective integration of people, processes, resources, and infrastructure to meet project milestones, customer expectations, and contractual obligations. Working closely with project and functional teams, the Operations Manager drives schedule performance, resource optimisation, risk mitigation, quality outcomes, and operational efficiency, ensuring project objectives are delivered on time, within budget, and in accordance with established standards and governance requirements.

Core Duties:

• Lead the planning, coordination, and delivery of project activities to meet customer, contractual, operational, and regulatory requirements.
• Ensure project deliverables are achieved safely, on schedule, within budget, and to the required quality standards.
• Monitor and report on project performance, risks, issues, and key metrics, implementing corrective actions and continuous improvement initiatives where required.
• Lead and develop a high-performing team, ensuring appropriate capability, capacity, and resource allocation to support project objectives.
• Manage project resources, workforce planning, and forecasting to optimise operational performance and delivery outcomes.
• Oversee operational readiness, facilities, assets, equipment, and enabling infrastructure required to support project execution.
• Manage Control Account responsibilities, including scope, schedule, cost performance, forecasting, risk management, and performance reporting.
• Develop and maintain effective relationships with customers, subcontractors, suppliers, and key internal stakeholders to support project success.
• Ensure compliance with project governance, contractual obligations, quality requirements, and organisational policies and procedures.
• Champion a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with Safety, Health and Environment (SHE) requirements.

Essential Skills:

• Experience in managing operational activities and project deliverables within regulated environments, including compliance, quality, and risk management.
• Proven ability to coordinate resources, schedules, and priorities to achieve project outcomes on time, within budget, and to required standards.
• Experience in Control Account Management (CAM) or equivalent project management responsibilities, including scope, budget, schedule, resource management, forecasting, and performance reporting.
• Communicates with clarity, confidence, and impact across a range of audiences and situations, whilst demonstrating adaptability and resilience by responding positively to change, uncertainty, and new challenges.
• Experience in monitoring contractual requirements, performance metrics, and project risks, identifying risks, and implementing mitigation strategies to ensure successful project outcomes.
• Experience in delivering and/or managing technical training programs within Defence, aviation maintenance, or similar regulated environments.
• Experience in the VET sector, including the development, delivery, and management of adult learning programs.
• Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40122 or equivalent), or willingness to obtain.
• Defence security clearance, or eligibility to obtain.
• Eligibility to be cleared under International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).

Why BAE Systems?

Here you'll build a career with purpose and limitless possibilities. With lifelong learning and meaningful work - this is a place where you can grow your career with confidence and be empowered to be your best. You'll be recognised for your contribution and enjoy rewards tailored to what's most important to you and your family - support for your financial and personal wellbeing, as well as a balanced lifestyle. In an environment embracing sustainable ways of working and with a strong sense of shared purpose, our supportive culture is a place you can feel you belong and proud of the difference you make.

A place where everyone can thrive

We're committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We know that a diversity of backgrounds, perspectives and experiences strengthens our teams and is vital to the work we do.

We support our veteran community through VetNet Australia, along with initiatives such as Reserve Service Leave, a Veteran Mentoring Program, and partner-supported programs.

We welcome applications from all candidates and strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to apply.

We are proud to be recognised as an employer of choice for women by WORK180 and recipients of the Benchmarcx Top Employer for Candidate Experience Excellence 2026. As members of the Circle Back Initiative, we commit to responding to every applicant.

If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact our recruitment team to discuss the support you may need. You can also connect with us via Careers and Employment.

Security statement

Please note, as a defence security clearance is required for this role, applicants must be Australian citizens and either possess or be eligible to obtain and maintain one. Further information regarding security clearances. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) are applicable and as such, your nationality may be a factor in determining your suitability for this role. Please visit this webpage for more information.