Have you always wanted to work overseas? Are you looking to expand your career with the opportunity to receive world-class training?
An exciting career awaits you at ASC, Australia's submarine company - the sustainer of Australia's conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines in the AUKUS partnership. To deliver on this new and exciting work, we are seeking a skilled Shift Test Engineer- Mechanical to undertake long-term, world-leading training in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, U.S.
This role offers a unique opportunity best suited for someone who thrives on challenge and is motivated by meaningful impact. You'll tackle complex work, grow your skills, and be rewarded with genuine career development and fulfilment.
Placements are available in early 2027 and will be approximately 134 weeks in duration.
Responsibilities
As a Shift Test Engineer- Mechanical, you will typically be responsible for:
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Provide specialist expertise in the design, testing, and operation of Nuclear Steam Raising Plants (NSRP) on nuclear‑powered submarines
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Perform Shift Test Engineer duties, leading NSRP testing, operations, and maintenance, and directing HMAS Stirling personnel and Ship’s Force during test activities
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Lead pre‑shift briefings and training to ensure all personnel are fully prepared for scheduled NSRP operations
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Conduct valve and switch line‑ups with Ship’s Force to support safe and accurate NSRP maintenance and testing
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Act as Shift Test Supervisor when required, overseeing Shift Test Engineers and providing operational direction for complex test programs
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Support the Assistant Chief Test Engineer function by identifying retest requirements and coordinating across HMAS Stirling departments to ensure successful delivery of the NSRP test program
Eligibility Criteria
The successful applicant must possess:
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Bachelor of Engineering (any discipline) – ideally Marine/Naval, Nuclear, or Mechanical
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Experience within the defence industry or on submarines (desirable)
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Strong interpersonal skills
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A proactive approach to learning and ongoing professional development
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Ability to thrive and adapt in a dynamic, evolving environment
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Australian Citizenship
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Ability to obtain and maintain an NV1 Defence Clearance
Additional Details
During deployment, you will receive on the job training combined with instructor led classroom training. This training program and work is carried out in accordance with company and US Navy processes and procedures.
At the completion of your deployment, you will return to Western Australia (WA) to carry out the planning, management, and in-water maintenance activities on the United States Navy Virginia Class Submarines at HMAS Stirling. Repatriation to WA is non-negotiable, so please consider this when applying.
Please note: This is a Civilian role and recruitment processes will differ from those undertaken in Active Service Defence recruitment.
Benefits
We’re here to support you prior to deployment and when you are overseas. As an ASC employee working overseas, you will have access to a host of great benefits:
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Be paid to work, train, and live in the United States
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Work on world-class nuclear-powered submarines and learn cutting-edge nuclear technology
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Have access to benefits and entitlements to support relocation and your time living and working overseas (such as cost-of-living allowances, housing assistance, family assistance)
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Return home to a secure job with ASC in the future nuclear-powered submarine program
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Access to ASC’s extensive employment benefits
Next Steps
Shortlisted applicants will be contacted to organise a phone call for a further discussion to the opportunity.
Early applications are encouraged as shortlisting may commence immediately.