Operations Manager - C-17

At CAE, our mission is clear: to help make the world a safer place. For nearly 80 years, we’ve driven innovation in simulation, training, and mission readiness to support critical operations worldwide. By leveraging advanced technologies, we empower our customers to operate smarter, faster, and more sustainably. Join a purpose-driven organisation where bold ideas are encouraged, collaboration drives progress, and your growth fuels our shared success.

At CAE, our mission is clear: to help make the world a safer place. For nearly 80 years, we’ve driven innovation in simulation, training, and mission readiness to support critical operations worldwide. By leveraging advanced technologies, we empower our customers to operate smarter, faster, and more sustainably. Join a purpose-driven organization where bold ideas are encouraged, collaboration drives progress, and your growth fuels our shared success.

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As Operations Manager - Non ASIST Platforms, you will be responsible for the efficient and effective delivery of services across a portfolio of Defence sustainment and training programs. Acting as the primary interface between CAE and our customers, you'll lead operational delivery, drive customer outcomes, and ensure contract objectives are achieved across safety, quality, schedule, cost, and risk.

This role sits within CAE Defence & Security's Air Services Portfolio and plays a critical role in supporting Australian Defence training capability. Working across a matrixed environment, you'll collaborate with maintenance, engineering, training and functional teams to deliver safe, compliant and high-performing operations while building strong customer relationships and fostering a "best for customer" culture.

• I lead service delivery across Defence sustainment and training programs, ensuring contractual outcomes are achieved safely and efficiently.
• I build and maintain strong customer relationships, acting as a key point of contact for operational matters and service delivery.
• I oversee training centre operations, working closely with maintenance, engineering and training teams to meet performance objectives.
• I manage operational governance including reporting, risk management, KPIs and customer deliverables.
• I ensure compliance with all safety, security and quality requirements while promoting a strong safety culture.
• I manage program budgets, revenue performance and operational planning to support successful contract outcomes.

• 5+ years' experience in project, program and customer management.
• 3-5 years' experience working with Defence customers including Commonwealth of Australia and OEM stakeholders.
• Strong financial and commercial acumen.
• Experience managing risk in accordance with ISO 31000 or equivalent frameworks.
• Ability to travel and engage directly with customers and stakeholders.
• Ability to obtain and maintain an NV1 Defence Security Clearance.
• Ability to work across our Defence training and operational sites in a hybrid capacity.

• Experience managing complex budgets, forecasts and financial performance.
• Experience with aircraft, simulator, engineering, training or technology-based programs.
• Strong operational leadership capability within matrix organisations.
• Knowledge of Defence sustainment, maintenance or training environments.
• Advanced problem-solving and stakeholder management skills.
• Understanding of forecasting and operational planning processes.

As the Australian Department of Defence is a major client, you must be eligible to obtain a Defence Security Clearance to work in this role. Please be mindful that one of the main requirements to obtain a clearance is Australian Citizenship.

• Australia (multiple Defence and training sites as required)
• We operate a hybrid working approach.
• Your role will involve occasional interstate travel and customer site visits.

If this role fits what you are looking for and you believe you have the necessary skills and experience, click 'Apply Now' and attach your resume.

CAE is committed to providing equal opportunities to all applicants, regardless of race, nationality, colour, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, neurodiversity, veteran status, age, or other characteristics protected by law. We encourage applicants who may not meet every qualification to apply. Reasonable accommodations are available – contact your recruiter or email CAEcareers-Careers@cae.com if needed.

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As part of our process, we may use AI‑supported tools to help review applications, with human decision‑making at every step. CAE thanks all applicants for their interest. However, only those whose background and experience match the requirements of the role will be contacted.

CAE is committed to providing equal opportunities to all applicants, regardless of race, nationality, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, neurodiversity, veteran status, age, or other characteristics protected by law. We encourage applicants who may not meet every qualification to apply. Reasonable accommodations are available—contact your recruiter or email CAECarrieres-Careers@cae.com if needed.