Lead Data Engineer – Data Engineering | Federal Contract

Must be an Australian citizen. Must be able to obtain Negative Vetting Level 1 security clearance.

1. A tailored resume in docx format
2. A one page pitch to address all criteria specified. This is equal to 5000 characters.
3. Contact details for 2 professional referees: referee name, contact number and email.
4. Response to additional requirements.

• RFQ ID: LH-07096
• Agency: Australian Federal Police
• Closing Date: Wednesday, 15 July 2026 – 11:59pm, Canberra time
• Estimated Start Date: Friday, 23 October 2026
• Initial Contract Duration: 12 months
• Extension Term: Other
• Experience Level: Lead - EL1 equivalent
• Security Clearance: Must be able to obtain Negative Vetting Level 1
• Location of Work: ACT
• Working Arrangements: Hybrid. The primary office is in Canberra however working remotely from an alternate location, including work from home, or flexible work arrangements may be considered. Any approval is at the sole discretion of the Buyer. All required travel to and from location will be at the Seller's expense unless previously agreed.
• Maximum Hours: 7.5 hours per day

Data Engineers prepare raw data for analytical or operational uses. They make data accessible so that it can be used for optimisation, delivery of services and enhanced analytics solutions.

The Services, delivered in collaboration with and under supervision by nominated AFP personnel, include, but are not limited to, the following:

• → Design, construct, install, test and maintain data pipelines.
• → Create custom software components and analytics applications.
• → Leverage modern software automation techniques to uplift the capabilities of the broader team.
• → Ensure that all systems meet the business/company requirements as well as industry practices.
• → Employ an array of technological languages and tools to connect systems together.
• → Collaborate with members of the team (e.g., data architects, the IT team, data scientists) on the project's goals.
• → Recommend different ways to constantly improve data reliability and quality.

As part of the services, the seller must ensure the specified personnel:

• → Maintains currency in information technology processes and technical knowledge through ongoing professional development.
• → Establishes and maintains effective business relationships and professional networks.
• → Contributes to and implements improved ICT practices and procedures.
• → Provides mentoring, coaching and training.
• → Works effectively in a small team environment, and wider Command environment.
• → Remains accountable for accurate completion of work within timeframes and quality requirements, shares own expertise with others and guides and mentors less experienced buyer employees; and
• → Records and maintains files/information in accordance with buyer requirements.

• Proven experience with the development of data streaming and processing pipelines (Python, Apache Kafka, Apache NiFi, or similar).
• Data pipeline development and management experience including but not limited to data migration, modelling and analytics.
• Experience with modern DevSecOps tools and methodologies.
• Strong analytical skills across structured and unstructured datasets.
• 5+ years industry experience in mathematics, statistics, software engineering, IT or data engineering.

Technology is a critical enabler of the AFP's operational and corporate services to ensure that we achieve our purpose. We use technology to assist frontline policing and protective services through direct tactical interventions in investigations, and to strategically maintain, sustain and evolve our foundational technology platforms and architecture. We are continuing to develop this capability by:

1. modernising the AFP's technology foundations and applications, and increasing the cyber-security position of the organisation
2. evolving our internal processes to navigate the development and deployment of emerging technologies
3. continuing to mature our use of technology across the 6 strategic shifts outlined in our AFP Technology Strategy 2025
4. enhancing our collaboration with academic institutions, police forces and the technology sector to understand technological challenges and opportunities to strengthen law enforcement capabilities.

The buyer has specified that each candidate must provide a one page pitch to address all criteria specified. This is equal to 5000 characters.

1. Solution The extent to which the potential supplier's response meets the AFP's requirements as set out in the ATM documents.
   20%
2. Ability to deliver The extent to which the potential supplier demonstrates its capability and capacity to provide the requirements. Proven experience with the development of data streaming and processing pipelines using Python, Apache, Kafka, Apache NiFi or similar technologies. Data pipeline development and management experience including but not limited to data migration, modelling and analytics.
   50%
3. Whole of life costs The whole of life costs for the AFP. Evaluation includes the quoted price and any costs the AFP will incur after accepting the potential supplier's response. Ability to adhere to AFP standards and practice Ability to gain and maintain necessary clearances Demonstrated ability to communicate and work effectively within a team Experience working in teams with an Agile Development way of working Demonstrated ability to deliver a data or analytical product through to success and to be able to understand it's business impact.
   30%

1. Interviews and reference checks will be conducted for shortlisted candidates. For each candidate, provide the contact details for 2 professional referees (referee name, contact number and email).
2. Subcontractor arrangements are not permitted as part of this RFQ. Sellers must please ensure compliance with this requirement before submitting candidates.

We know the government ICT market and we keep things straightforward. We take time to understand your background, your goals and the type of role that suits you. We believe transparency is about more than rates and our margins are fair and always disclosed.

1. Fair, disclosed margins
2. Clear communication at every stage
3. Honest advice on fit and competitiveness
4. Visibility on submissions and process status
5. A professional and respectful experience

You choose what's best for you.

1. PAYG through Pinaka
2. Third-party payroll
3. Self-employed (own ABN)

With a single, transparent and fixed margin, we ensure compliance to all state and payroll laws. So that is one less thing for you to worry about.

Already in a role but not happy with the setup?

Port in your contract to Pinaka for a simpler and more transparent experience. We also have some exciting limited time offers on top of the incredible margins we offer.

Our referral program for people who introduce strong candidates to us.

Refer a friend - Earn $1/hr per successful referral as long as you both with us. Refer as many friends as you want; no caps.