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Research And Development Manager

Thales Group Mulwala, NSW (New South Wales)

Job Description

We’re inventing the future, right here, right now, at Thales. We design the critical security solutions of tomorrow by combining the curiosity to explore, the intelligence to question and the vision to create. Together we solve complicated problems by combining our experience in the market with our leading research and development capabilities.

Thales operates the Benalla and Mulwala facilities which are Australia’s only major manufacturer of propellants, high explosives, munitions, ammunitions and munitions components for the Australian Defence Force and commercial customers in Australia and overseas. These facilities also have the capability to produce and support a wide variety of Guided Weapons, Space and Hypersonic systems.

Why work for Thales Australia?

  • Cutting-edge technology and innovation: We offer an opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology in defence, security, and civil markets. Contribute to the development of energetic materials for new products, working on Guided Weapons, Space, and Hypersonic systems, providing a unique and exciting environment for professional growth.

  • Professional development and growth: We emphasise mentoring and development, fostering a supportive environment for new employees and graduates. Take the opportunity to not only enhance your own technical expertise but also to mentor and guide others in their career development.

  • Diverse industry exposure: We operate in various sectors, such as secure communications, avionics, land and air systems, and ground transportation systems. This diversity offers the opportunity to gain knowledge and experience in multiple domains and develop a well-rounded skillset.

  • Global presence and collaboration: Thales have a worldwide presence, offering potential opportunities for international collaboration and exposure. Our professionals are a part of a global network and contribute to projects that have an international impact.

  • Commitment to safety, environment, and quality: We adhere to strict occupational health, safety, and environmental standards, ensuring a safe and responsible work environment. We are committed to continuous improvement, focusing on customer needs and maintaining efficient, effective systems. Contribute to projects that prioritize safety, quality, and environmental stewardship.

  • Benefits for the position

  • Thales were the first Engineering company in Australia to pay the superannuation guarantee on unpaid primary carer’s leave

    Primary Carers Leave – 20 weeks with no employment minimum

    Secondary Carers Leave – 10 weeks with no employment minimum

  • Take part in company’s bonus scheme and receive contributions to the company private health insurer

  • Relocation Assistance – if you’re keen on moving to the region. This position requires the person to be located on-site

  • Thales provides development for lifelong learners. Training is offered in our online platform, on site and abroad

  • Great savings on gym memberships (Fitness Passport) and other Thales Employee discounts

  • Positive team culture that are passionate about the work that they do

  • The Research & Development Manager will form part of the Technical & Engineering Team and will provide support for the development of energetic materials for new products and the provision of support to resolve specialist technical issues at the Thales Mulwala and Benalla facilitates.

    Duties and Responsibilities

  • Ensuring the resources, technical skills and supporting systems of the R&D function are sufficient to meet the requirements of the business.

  • Supporting the R&D team to understand the context and customer needs

  • Ensuring the feasibility of the technical solution including:

    the adequacy of the solution in term of architecture and technology maturity with respect to solution requirements,

    the consistency of the technical solution within the business’ strategy,

    the feasibility with respect to cost, schedule, skills, resources and industrial organisation,

  • Holding the position as Product Design Authority for relevant products and to discharge the responsibilities in a professional manner.

  • Ensuring that the production aspects of the technical solution are considered in terms of Manufacturability, Maintainability, Consistency between Non-Recurring & Recurring/Production costs.

  • How About You?

  • Recognised Chemical, Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering degree able to meet the requirements for Professional membership of Engineers Australia (or equivalent professional body)

  • Demonstrated leadership experience – experience in managing people and operations in a research or product development environment

  • Knowledge of and experience with Energetics, Propellants, High Explosives, Ammunition and/or Guided Weapons systems is considered essential

  • Good to Know

    You’ll get an email acknowledgement after you’ve applied, Thales strives to provide a personalised experience for all suitable applicants.
    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 –
    International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) are applicable and as such, your nationality may be a factor in determining your suitability for this role.
    As part of our standard process you will complete police, medical, employment and reference checks. Thales also complies with current public health orders in place and as such you may be requested to provide your COVID-19 vaccination record.
    For more information on Thales visit us @ThalesCareers on Instagram

    #LI-BG1

    Thales is committed to promoting and maintaining a workplace culture of shared respect that enables all of us to feel valued, do our best, and remain truly passionate about the place that we work. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments to provide a positive, barrier-free recruitment process and supportive workplace. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and individuals from diverse backgrounds.

    We are also proud to be a WORK180 Endorsed Employer for Women. If you would like to know more on how we are supporting our employees, you can view our policies and initiatives here: .

    Wellbeing matters at Thales, and where possible we encourage flexible working.

      This job vacancy was been posted over 40 days ago, but is still active and currently accepting new applications.

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    Thales Group