Senior Network Engineer – Hybrid Cloud Networks | NV1 | Canberra

Australian citizenship required. Must have an active Negative Vetting Level 1 (or higher) security clearance.

Location: Canberra (Onsite).

1. A tailored resume in docx format (strictly 3 pages max)
2. A one page (5000 character) summary response to the selection criteria below.

• RFQ ID: LH-07518
• Agency: Australian Electoral Commission
• Closing Date: Friday, 4 September 2026 at 11:59pm Canberra time
• Estimated Start Date: Tuesday, 6 October 2026
• Initial Contract Duration: ASAP to 30 June 2028
• Extension Term: 12 months
• Number of Extensions: 1
• Experience Level: Senior – EL1 equivalent
• Security Clearance: Active Negative Vetting Level 1 required prior to commencement
• Location of Work: ACT
• Working Arrangements: Onsite at the AEC National Office in Canberra. Hybrid arrangements may be considered at the Hiring Manager’s discretion.
• Maximum Hours: 40 hours per week

The AEC is seeking an experienced Network Engineer to enable the delivery of the Commission’s objectives and outcomes by undertaking the design, implementation and operational support of network services.

• → Analyse, develop, interpret and evaluate complex telecommunications systems design and network specifications, data models and diagrams in the development, configuration and integration of computer systems.
• → Research, analyse, evaluate and monitor telecommunications network infrastructure to ensure networks are configured to operate at optimal performance with exceptional resilience and redundancy, including resolution of telecommunications network problems and emergencies.
• → Advise, document, commission, build, configure and support network integration with multiple network partners supporting the AEC’s journey to Hybrid cloud with multiple providers.
• → Assess and make recommendations for improvements to network operations and integrated hardware, software and operating systems.
• → Ensure compliance and alignment with all cyber recommended patch levels and hardening across the fleet of networking devices and appliances and all associated server operating systems.
• → Install, configure, test, maintain and administer new and upgraded telecommunications networks and applications.
• → Provide network programming in support of specific business needs and requirements.
• → Prepare and maintain procedures, maintenance instructions and documentation for network inventory, and record the diagnosis and resolution of network faults, enhancements and modifications.
• → Monitor network traffic, and activity, capacity and usage to ensure continued integrity and optimal network performance.
• → Keep abreast of changes in industry practices and emerging telecommunications technology and identify opportunities for improvement in the AEC’s systems and infrastructure.
• → Analyse complex issues and contribute to the management, preparation, and coordination of policy formulation and/or project management.
• → Be part of a dynamic team fostering professionalism to ensure high quality outputs, including the development of team members at lower classifications, building team capacity and encouraging career development.
• → Develop and support key internal and external relationships, including managing stakeholders to achieve work area and agency goals. In addition, represent the agency by promoting its interests in various forums and maintaining relationships with vendor partners and telecommunication providers.
• → Make and communicate decisions using good judgement, expertise, and knowledge, governed by legislation, regulations, best practice principles or relevant operating instructions and procedures.
• → Contribute to doctrine, election preparation and delivery activities in accordance with the election readiness framework, according to individual accountabilities and responsibilities.

• Layer 2 networking, including VLANs, trunks and Spanning Tree
• Modern cloud-based networking technologies
• Firewall configuration and maintenance
• Dynamic routing protocols, including BGP and OSPF
• DWDM optical networks
• Layer 4–7 application performance troubleshooting
• DNS and DHCP network infrastructure
• Hybrid cloud network integration
• Network monitoring, resilience, redundancy and cyber hardening

The Chief Technology and Data Officer Branch drives the AEC’s digital resilience and data-driven transformation through four core areas: Cloud and Infrastructure Operations ensures secure, scalable systems; IT Service Operations provides nationwide IT support and logistics; Enterprise Technical Enablement manages devices, network security, and technical initiatives; and Data Capability Exchange oversees data strategy, engineering, AI governance, and geospatial services. Together, these functions enable reliable technology and data capabilities for electoral operations and organisational efficiency.

The Chief Technology and Data Officer Branch is responsible for the management of the agency’s ICT infrastructure, including on-premises and cloud networks, messaging systems, file storage and management, database administration and software delivery.

1. • Ability to research, analyse, evaluate and monitor network infrastructure to ensure networks are configured to operate at optimal performance. As well as assess and recommend improvements to network operations and integrated hardware, software, communications and operating systems
   • Ability to install, configure, test, maintain and administer new and upgraded networks, including support and troubleshoot network problems and emergencies.
   • Proven ability to communicate effectively whilst anticipating stakeholder needs and expectations across a geographically dispersed network.
   • Ability to proactively collaborate with key stakeholders (and vendors) and build relationships across our IT partners
   • Understanding of maintaining and operating Layer 2 networks such a VLANs, Trunks, Spanning-Tree.
   • Demonstrated Understanding and use of modern cloud-based networking technologies
   • Demonstrated ability in communicating complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences, providing clear explanations and justifications for recommendations
   • Proven ability to proactively establish priorities and manage risk to ensure the delivery of successful electoral events.
2. To be considered compliant, submissions need to be provided in 1 PDF Document including: Page 1 - a completed copy of the AEC Candidate Submission Guide provided as part of the industry brief (Emailed to the listed BuyICT contact address upon RFQ publication):
   • Provide information for the following items: Candidate Name, Position Title, Opportunity ID, Candidate Availability, Location, Citizenship Status, Security Clearance Level, Planned Leave (exceeding 1 week), Additional Engagements, Submitting Consultant.
   • Choose an item or check the box that applies to the following options: Previous AEC Employee or Contractor, Current AEC Contractor, Code of Conduct, Submission History, Authority to Represent, Submission Compliancy.
   • Consultant comments may be added (must be limited to the space provided). Page 2 - A one-page pitch addressing the selection criteria. This should not exceed one page. Pages 3 - 5 - A resume of no more than three pages. We will strictly adhere to the above requirements. Submissions will be deemed non-compliant if they do not meet the listed criteria, if they exceed the 5-page limit or if the rates of submitted candidates are included in the PDF.

1. • A relevant bachelor’s degree or higher qualification. At least five years of relevant experience and/or relevant vendor certification may substitute for the formal qualification
   • Contribute to the development and maintenance of network and infrastructure architectures, standards and roadmaps
   • Provide strategic input into future infrastructure design, including server and network integration patterns
   • Lead or contribute to architectural governance artefacts (e.g. strategies, policies, and technology standards
   • Engage with stakeholders to shape long-term infrastructure direction and ensure alignment with business objectives
   • Experience Configuring and maintaining firewalls
   • Experience configuring Dynamic Routing Protocols such as BGP, OSPF
   • Experience deploying and maintaining DWDM optical networks
   • Experience troubleshooting L4-7 application performance problems
   • Experience maintaining DNS and DHCP network infrastructure

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.

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