Program Manager

Curtin University

Bentley, Perth WA

Programme and Project Management (Information and Communication Technology)

Other (Education and Training)

Full time

138,681 - 146,497 (G09) per annum + 17% super

Curtin University invites dynamic and strategic leaders to apply for the Program Manager position within the National Resilience and Security (NRAS) Program Office. This is more than a job; it's a calling for those who are passionate about making a difference at the intersection of academia, industry, and government in the realm of national security and resilience.  The focus is to identify, develop and manage programmatic opportunities that help the University translate world-class research and innovation, as well as support workforce development, with respect to opportunities in the national resilience, security, and space sectors. 

About the Role

??The Program Manager, National Resilience and Security (NRAS) Program Office, will plan, manage and coordinate a range of strategic and operational initiatives across our National Security and Space portfolio. The incumbent will identify, develop and manage programmatic opportunities that help the University translate world-class research and innovation, as well as support workforce development, with respect to opportunities in the national resilience, security, and space sectors. 

?This will include the development of proposals and business cases with Government, Academic and Industry partners, both domestic and international. This involves developing multi-party funding initiatives, through program creation, management and support to our Researchers to fully realise the impact of Curtin teaching and research, including facilitation of these activities within a secure environment. 

?The role will liaise with researchers, wider academics and school and faculty leaders, as well as government and industry leaders, to develop enduring sovereign partnerships and local ecosystems that underpin the growth of high-quality national resilience, security, and space science innovation engines for Australia.?

Key Responsibilities:

Develop a thorough appreciation of the depth and breadth of science and innovation research at Curtin University, and its application to resolving issues and/or delivering innovation in the national security and space domains.

Develop a strong understanding of the national security and space domains, including Australia’s growth of sovereign capabilities and potential funding models to develop research and innovation partnerships with government, defence, civil and industry stakeholders.

Identify and leverage opportunities to secure funding to support the growth of Curtin’s national security and space portfolios.

Engage, influence and negotiate with key stakeholders such as government, defence, civil and industry leaders, in support of building effective collaboration models, including development of local WA ecosystems, for the delivery of superior national security and space outcomes.

Work with stakeholders to prepare grants, business cases and project briefs to support project proposals.

Plan, direct, and co-ordinate activities to manage and implement the programs, from idea through to proposal initiation, and final operational stage, including the transition into “business-as-usual” (BAU).

Ensure appropriate risk management is carried out for projects, escalating risks as required to ensure action is taken to mitigate them.

Manage program governance, chair stakeholder meetings, convene focus groups and deliver high level presentations to relevant groups and other appropriate stakeholders across the University.

Oversee and be accountable for the implementation of program deliverables and ensure any new capabilities are deployed and integrated into the business in a way that is sensitive and compatible with business operations.

Selection Criteria:

Proven leadership capabilities, with a track record of delivering results and adeptly managing change.

Demonstrated exceptional strategic planning, market and wider stakeholder engagement and trust, and the ability to navigate complex stakeholder relationships with ease.

Strong background in government and industry engagement within classified security domains and can quickly learn the intricacies of university research agreements for the national security and space sectors.

Undergraduate qualifications and a wealth of experience in business development and stakeholder management within complex environments, ideally within a university, research centre, defence, or industry setting.

Demonstrated high level interpersonal and oral communication skills with the ability to negotiate and navigate complex stakeholder relationships with ease using appropriate influencing styles to achieve outcomes.

High performing candidates without demonstrated experience relevant to some of these criteria are still encouraged to apply and demonstrate their experience in a relevant space, and/or their ability to quickly develop new skills. We are looking for diversity in experience, thought and approach.

Role Requirements:

Willing and able to apply for a Australian Govt NV1 security clearance upon commencement

Successful applicants are subject to a National Police Clearance, and background, integrity, and reference checks to Curtin’s satisfaction 

About Curtin University

We are an energetic, dedicated team of academics and professionals working together to provide global solutions through quality graduates and innovative research. Curtin is a welcoming space where integrity, respect for one another, courage, excellence, and impact are essential to everyday life. First Nations people, those identifying as LGBTQIA+, parents, carers, people of all ages, abilities and genders, and people of diverse ethnicity, nationality and faith are encouraged to apply. Our aim is to create a workforce that reflects the diversity of the community in which we live.

What We Offer You:

This fixed-term (3 years) appointment attracts a salary package of 138,681 - 146,497 (G09) per annum, plus 17% superannuation.

Situated on Whadjuk Nyungar Country, our vibrant Bentley campus includes an art gallery, gym, childcare and medical centre, bus station, accessible parking and endless food options including a supermarket. Aside from the vibrant campus life, we offer more than just a job. Curtin offers a wide range of generous benefits, including additional leave, salary packaging, health and wellbeing services and an array of discounts for retail, travel and much more. For more information, check out our benefits page!

Join Us!

If this sounds like your next role, please click APPLY NOW and provide the following documents:

Up-to-date Resume

Cover Letter outlining your interest and demonstrating how your background meets the position’s selection criteria (noted above)

If you have any queries in relation to this opportunity or the application process, quoting the reference number. Applications will not be accepted via this email address, and late applications will not be accepted.

Applications close: 8.30pm (AWST), 9 April 2026

NOTE: Never make payment to any employer, person, company, contractor or agency to get hired for a Job.

Contact our careers team on CurtinCareers@curtin.edu.au or 0892669000