Draftsperson

Job Location: Osborne, SA – We offer a range of hybrid and flexible working arrangements – please speak to your recruiter about the options for this particular role.

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.

Role Description:

An exciting opportunity for a Detailed Designer/Draftsperson to join the Hunter Class Frigate Program based in Osborne, SA. Reporting to the Production Engineering Team Lead working under the Production Engineering Support Manager.

This role will see you provide engineering support to production through the development of modification packages, production work instructions, and engineering drawings required to implement engineering changes throughout the ship build lifecycle. Additionally, you will develop resolutions for day-to-day production technical issues, via the investigation of the engineering product definition, including CAD models, engineering drawings, materials, specifications, equipment integration and manufacturing activities.

You will assess issues, develop practical engineering solutions and support the implementation of approved design changes while ensuring compliance with applicable standards, requirements, configuration management and change management processes.

We are looking for qualified engineers, candidates with a diploma qualification, or a relevant trade certificate. Experience in one or more of the following domains will be highly desirable:

• Welding and fabrication

• Equipment and machinery

• Detailed design and/or drafting

• Structural and mechanical engineering of fabricated assemblies

• Design-for-manufacture and engineering problem solving, including assessment of drawing errors, design conflicts, and production queries in a fabrication environment

• Ship design/building across any of the following disciplines, structural, outfitting/auxiliaries, piping and HVAC.

Core Duties:

• Develop detailed modification packs to support the implementation of approved Engineering Change Requests (ECRs), Engineering Change Proposals (ECPs), and design updates.

• Produce and revise engineering drawings, installation drawings, fabrication details, and production support documentation.

• Create production-ready design solutions that support efficient and safe implementation of engineering changes onboard vessels and within module construction areas.

• Review engineering design data and assess impacts on production, integration, and installation activities.

• Conduct design investigations and resolve drafting and configuration issues as they arise throughout the build process.

• Ensure all drawings and documentation comply with company standards, naval shipbuilding requirements, and configuration management processes.

• Support production teams by providing technical clarification and drawing interpretation when required.

• Review reported issues and perform technical investigations, root cause analysis and engineering assessments relevant to your domain.

• Support the management and closure of production queries, non-conformances, deviations and concessions.

• Provide a link in the communication process between Production and the wider business on the issue management process.

About You:

• Degree or diploma qualification in Mechanical, Structural, Manufacturing, Drafting or a related engineering discipline; or

• Relevant trade qualification (Mechanical, Fabrication, Boilermaker, Structural or similar) supported by production, manufacturing or engineering experience.

• Experience within naval shipbuilding, marine, defence, heavy engineering, or complex manufacturing industries.

• Understanding of shipboard systems, structures, outfitting, or production engineering processes.

• Experience working with Engineering Change Management processes and familiarity with PLM systems and enterprise engineering tools.

• Demonstrated experience in detailed design and drafting within a complex engineering or manufacturing environment.

• Demonstrated ability to interpret CAD models, engineering drawings, technical specifications and manufacturing documentation.

• Understanding of structural, mechanical, manufacturing or fabrication processes relevant to the candidate’s area of expertise.

• Experience investigating and resolving technical issues relating to design, manufacture, assembly or production activities.

• Ability to assess the impact of design changes and support their implementation within a controlled engineering environment.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

• Baseline Defence Security Clearance or eligibility to obtain.

The Hunte Class Frigate Team

BAE Systems Australia is leading the largest ever surface ship project in Australia’s defence history – the design and build of Hunter class frigates. The Hunter Class Frigate Program is transforming Australia’s shipbuilding industry by supporting the building of a world-class, continuous naval shipbuilding capability for our nation

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 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. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) are applicable and as such, your nationality may be a factor in determining your suitability for this role. Please visit this webpage for more information