Specialist Mechanical Engineer (Weapon Design and Manufacturing)
Thales
Posted: May 3, 2026
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Quick Summary
Design and manufacture mechanical systems, including weapon design and manufacturing.
Required Skills
Job Description
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.
OUR BENEFITS
• Annual salary review
• Employee discounts with a number of affiliates (Travel, Car hire, Tech, Medical Insurance)
• Modernised Paid Parental Leave
• Veterans Leave
• Novated Lease options
• Family support through our partnership with Parents at Work
• We are recognised as a Family Friendly Workplace.
OUR TEAM
Our Integrated Weapons & Sensors (IWS) team have been supporting Australian soldiers for over 100 years – designing, developing and manufacturing a range of small arms for military use. And with ongoing investment into our facilities and apprentice program, we’re building out our capabilities for generations to come.
YOUR ROLE
We are seeking a highly experienced Specialist Mechanical Engineer for the design, development and optimisation of advanced weapon systems and precision mechanical components. This is a specialist engineering role where you will play a critical part in ensuring engineering excellence across design, manufacturing and lifecycle sustainment.
• Design, review and optimisation of specialized mechanical systems- small, medium calibre weapons, accessories and associated precision components, sub-assemblies & assemblies
• Design manufacturing methodologies, fixtures, process control tools & equipment, develop reference documents
• Engineering oversight of production and manufacturing processes, including tight tolerance control, technical compliance and production integrity
• Validation, testing, review justification reports and performance review of high-stress, high-precision components, sub-assemblies and assemblies
• Assessment of material behaviour, weapon system dynamics & wear characteristics, fit, form, function and reliability in demanding operating conditions
• Root cause analysis, technical problem-solving and corrective action development for performance, production or sustainment issues
• Support for weapon system lifecycle sustainment, maintenance planning, product continuity and long-term capability retention
• Application and oversight of quality, traceability, documentation, compliance and regulatory requirements within a controlled manufacturing environment
• Technical & engineering mentoring, supervision and knowledge transfer to engineers, technicians, apprentices and production personnel
• Liaison with internal and external stakeholders to ensure engineering compliance, production continuity and sustainment outcomes
YOUR EXPERIENCE
• Degree in Mechanical Engineering with Chartered Professional Engineer accreditation
• Extensive experience in mechanical engineering and manufacturing (small arms / medium calibre highly regarded)
• Strong background in manufacturing process design (CNC machining, metallurgy, metal finishing, assembly techniques)
• Proven experience working with high-precision components and tight tolerances
• Experience within a defence-regulated manufacturing environment
WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO APPLY
After you have applied, you will receive an email acknowledging your application. We’ll then provide a personalised experience for suitable applicants as we progress the selection and assessment process.
Prior to being offered employment, you will need to complete pre-employment police and depending on the role type, medical checks as well. #LI-DZ1
As a Defence security clearance is required for this role, applicants must be Australian citizens and eligible to obtain and maintain an appropriate clearance. To learn more about clearances please visit – http://www.defence.gov.au/AGSVA/
In some cases, individuals who hold Australian Defence approved permit (DGSL controlled projects) or a current/past clearance from a foreign government may be eligible to have this clearance recognised by the Australian Government and be eligible for this role. The Australian Defence Trade Controls Act (DTCA) is applicable and as such, your nationality may be a factor in determining your suitability for this role.
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.
Read more about our WORK180 endorsement.