Head of Engineering Operations 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. Thales Australia is a leading provider of cutting-edge defence and security solutions and supplies and sustains a range of products for the ADF - including munitions, weapons, optronic, protected vehicles, mission packages, and command, control, communication and computer systems. As a Head of Engineering Operations, you will be part of the Vehicle and Tactical Systems (VTS) domain and play a pivotal role across the VTS domain's four key businesses: Protected Mobility Vehicles, Australian Munitions, Integrated Weapon Systems, and Explosive Ordinance Systems. Working from our Melbourne Office in the World Trade Centre on Wurundjeri land, your role purpose will be to provide engineering capability support to Business Segments within the VTS Domain as well as other customers including: Leading technical and engineering workforce planning, allocating resources to bids, projects, and products within the domains. Serving as the primary interface to the Project Management Office and Business Segments for demand inputs and engineering commitments. Developing and implementing the Make-Team-Buy and footprint strategy, in collaboration with Procurement and for approval by Hd Capability, Technical and Engineering. Managing WBS/PBS, cost estimates, and maintain reference cost data from previous projects. Leading Decision Management and act as Engineering Environment Manager with IS/IT collaboration. Preparing decisions for approval by Hd Capability, Technical and Engineering. Overseeing Engineering Capability Management and manage the SFRD budget for the VTS-AUS Domain. Reporting key KPIs with the Project Management Office and Finance. Resolving operational issues and drive continuous improvement with Engineering Leads. Your Experience: Strong understanding of Engineering Capability Management and budget oversight for large domains preferably in defence, engineering, or industrial sectors. Proven experience in leading engineering workforce planning and resource allocation for bids, projects, and products in large Matrix-style organisation. Solid experience managing WBS/PBS, cost estimation, and reference cost data from previous bids and projects. In-depth knowledge of engineering principles, ensuring solutions meet safety, security, cost, and manufacturability standards. Excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to influence, motivate and guide teams in large complex Matrix-style organisations. Proven ability to deliver results and implement solutions in complex environments. Excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to resolve operational issues effectively and drive continuous improvement. A relevant bachelor's degree, and a proven network within the maritime industry, would be advantageous. Eligibility to obtain an Australian Defence clearance. Ability to travel as needed. OUR BENEFITS Competitive remuneration + Super + Bonus + Medical Insurance. Recognised leader in reservist employee support. Veterans Leave. Fitness Passport Discount – Access to a network of Gyms across AUS. Employee discounts with a number of affiliates (Travel, Car hire, Tech, Medical Insurance). Modernised Paid Parental Leave. Novated Lease options. Family support through our partnership with Parents at Work. Personal & professional training development opportunities. Sonder – Wellbeing & Support Partner. Access to a network of the best people (A Nobel Prize winner on our staff list!). And much more! 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr