RFQ-ASD-LH-04010 ICT Security Specialist

Due to the nature of clients we work with here at Kinexus and the projects these roles will be based on, an Australian Government Top Secret Positive Vetting (TSPV) clearance is essential.

These opportunities do not have the ability to obtain sponsorship for a security clearance (including applicants who currently hold a security clearance seeking to upgrade).

ABOUT THIS ROLE

The ICT Security Specialist will under broad direction from the Commonwealth, be responsible for a range of activities as identified below, contributing to the ICT Security governance measures in the design, build, test and operation of ICT systems and network services to support the delivery of modern mobility solutions for senior government officials, including network, computing systems, desktop delivery solutions, complex gateway services, cloud services, and secure mobility solutions.

Estimated start date: Monday, 01 December 2025

Initial contract duration: 12 months

Extension term: 12 months

Number of extensions: 2

Location of work: ACT

Working arrangements: Onsite. WFH cannot be accommodated. Candidates must be willing to undergo ASD's Organisational Suitability Assessment (OSA) prior to engagement. Candidates required to have PV clearance.

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) is the federal agency responsible for foreign signals intelligence, cyber warfare and information security. ASD's purpose is to defend Australia from global threats and help advance our national interests.

Situated in Canberra, ASD employs over 2000 TSPV cleared workers. ASD's workforce is growing rapidly. Areas of growth include PMO, cyber security, systems administration and engineering, software development and network engineering.

A top-security, complex and highly technical environment, ASD plays a vital role in the defence of Australia. Long contracts (12 months+) available.

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead and manage the review and preparation of technical systems for assessment and analysis by IT Security.
• Lead and manage relationships across the division with various technical teams in support of efforts to secure their systems.
• Lead and manage the team's relationship with IT Security
• Undertake ICT system security control assessments, liaising with project and capability stakeholders to achieve milestones.
• Contribute to ICT Security policy implement practices, technologies and governance in accordance with the agency's security strategy.
• Lead and provide SME advice on ICT system security documentation including architectures, designs and configurations to reduce the risk of capabilities subject to assessment.
• Lead efficient and effective ICT security threat and risk assessment activities, applying & developing tools as needed.
• Work with external partners to assist their technical systems in obtaining authority to operate status.
• Develop, maintain, and uplift security documentation processes and frameworks.
• Ability to conduct threat assessment modelling of technical systems, including the use of methods such as STRIDE or MITRE frameworks.

TECHNICAL SKILLS REQUIRED

• At least 5 years' experience as a security specialist working across security architecture, and security and risk management.
• Experience ensuring technical systems adhere to Essential Eight, ISM, and PSPF frameworks
• Proven ability to communicate complex technical systems to non-technical audiences
• Excellent organisational and communication skills
• Proven record building, managing, and enhancing relationships with stakeholders
• Experience developing, managing, and implementing SOPs and procedures in support of security accreditation frameworks
• Bachelor's degree or above in an IT related degree.
• Experience managing complex projects.
• Experience with the use of cloud-based technologies.

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE NEEDED

• Applied Research: Level 5 (CIISEC) Has led teams conducting applied research. For example, has conducted applied research leading to the development of complex exploits or an in-depth assessment of an existing cryptographic algorithm.
• Intrusion Detection and Analysis: Level 2 (CIISEC) Can explain the basic principles involved in monitoring network and system activity for anomalous behaviour and how the results can be used. This might include experience of applying these principles in a training or academic environment, for example through participation in syndicate exercises, undertaking practical exercises, and/or passing a test or examination.
• Security Evaluation and Functionality Testing: Level 4 (CIISEC) Designs effective test programmes for systems, products applications or processes and is trusted to implement them.
• Systems design: Level 4 (SFIA) Designs system components using appropriate modelling techniques following agreed architectures, design standards, patterns and methodology. Identifies and evaluates alternative design options and trade-offs. Creates multiple design views to address the concerns of the different stakeholders and to handle functional and non-functional requirements. Models, simulates or prototypes the behaviour of proposed system components to enable approval by stakeholders. Produces detailed design specifications to form the basis for the construction of systems. Reviews, verifies and improves own designs against specifications.
• Australian Citizenship and a TSPV security clearance is essential

BENEFITS

Why work for ASD?

• Work on interesting and prestigious projects vital to the ongoing defence of Australia.
• Flexible work environment; work the hours that suit you between 7am and 7pm.
• Low attrition rate: the great variety of projects and opportunities across different business areas ensure few workers leave ASD.
• Long contracts available.
• Fantastic growth opportunities available at any stage of your career.

Why Kinexus?

• Kinexus has been supplying TSPV contractors to government panels since 2004 and have a strong relationship with them. We are one of just 9 suppliers Australia-wide.
• Our experience in managing contractors in defence/national security industries means we understand the requirements from the Commonwealth, insurances and clearances.
• DISP accredited; we can hold clearances and manage renewals.
• Dedicated account manager (me!) who is your dedicated POC and offer continuous contractor care.
• Rate negotiation guidance in line with the SFIA framework.
• Dedicated payroll assistant who facilitates your taxes and super.
• We proactively chase timesheet approvers to ensure you get paid on-time and error free.
• Regular visits to Canberra for coffee, lunches and quarterly drinks events.
• We can facilitate novated car leases, LAFHA or salary sacrifice.
• We'll keep you up to date with the most appropriate, interesting opportunities in your field.
• Community matters. Kinexus supports women in Defence through our female mentoring program and rewards referrers through our Referral Rewards scheme.
• Support for your health and wellness through counselling support (EAP) available for all contractors and their families.

Kinexus is the leading recruitment partner to the defence industry in Australia. We support our community in making intelligent connections and create opportunities to help grow careers.

All applications should include your resume as a word document. For more information, visit our website, www.kinexus.com.au or contact Cindace Prasad at 0449 511 324. #LI-CP