Melbourne, VIC , Australia

Software Engineer

Job Location: Melbourne Central Office

We work in a thriving sector – one that puts us at the forefront of exciting and meaningful work. Every day we push boundaries to produce some of the world’s most innovative and ground breaking technology. Individually we all contribute to our success. Collectively we make the impossible possible.

Recognised for delivering projects of global and national significance that help keep Australia safe, it is our shared passion that shapes our culture, and our people that make it a great place to work.

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. The job location is flexible, it can be Melbourne or Sydney based. We embrace flexible work arrangements at BAE Systems Australia, such as working a 9-day fortnight and hybrid working.

Role Description

We have an excellent opportunity for a Software Engineer to join our growing IDS Integrated Defence & Autonomous Systems team, based in either Melbourne or Sydney. In this role, you will play a key part in delivering high‑quality engineering outcomes by completing assigned technical activities in line with project procedures, work instructions, and where applicable regulatory and compliance standards.

Core Duties:

• Undertake all assigned software engineering activities—including analysis, design, development, testing, and documentation—in alignment with project directives, engineering standards, and quality expectations, ensuring outputs are appropriate to the project’s current lifecycle stage.
• Perform software engineering tasks in accordance with established software engineering plans, processes, and work instructions, while proactively identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, quality, or consistency across engineering practices.
• Provide regular and transparent progress updates to supervisors and project leads, communicating status, risks, issues, and dependencies to support effective planning and decision‑making.
• Offer guidance, coaching, and mentorship to junior software engineers where required, supporting their technical development, helping them navigate engineering processes, and contributing to a collaborative, high‑performing team environment.

About YOU

• Tertiary qualification in technology, engineering or similar is required
• Experience in industry standard programming languages – C, C++ and Python
• Hands on experience in working in a Linux or Windows software development environments
• Experience working with Embedded systems and hardware is considered desirable
• Working knowledge of Real Time Operating System (RTOS) and network protocols will be highly desirable
• Strong understanding of Software Development lifecycle, and experience in at least 2 major lifecycle phases (i.e. requirements analysis, architectural design, coding, integration, acceptance testing), in an acquisition or sustainment context will be highly regarded
• Demonstrated ability to pro-actively identify and implement improvements to Software Engineering practices within the project
• Demonstrated initiative and problem-solving skills
• Defence security clearance or eligibility to obtain NV1

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.

Electronic Systems

Engineering

Experienced professionals