Contracts Administrator
Job Location: Osborne, SA or Melbourne, VIC
Who we are:
Join BAE Systems and you'll be part of something bigger. As a valued member of our global colleague network, you'll bring your unique skills and perspectives to help pioneer progress and protect what matters most. You'll be trusted to play your part in delivering the advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions of tomorrow - shaping a safer future, for all of us.
From the depths of the ocean, to the far reaches of space - there's no limit to where a career at BAE Systems could take you.
Role Description:
As a Contracts Administrator you will be accountable for managing and negotiating effective contractual arrangements with capable suppliers to meet the organisation's cost, schedule, quality, and safety objectives, while maximising value and minimising risk through strong relationship and performance management.
Multiple positions of varying levels of expertise are available.
Core Duties:
- Actively monitor and manage subcontractor performance against KPIs, service levels and contractual obligations.
- Manage all subcontract commercial activities across the project lifecycle, including progress claims, payment assessments, warranties, notices, variations, and contract amendments.
- Lead and participate in subcontract and project meetings as part of the Integrated Project Team, providing commercial and contractual advice to support informed decision-making.
- Lead commercial negotiations with suppliers and execute supplier agreements, subcontracts, and purchase orders in accordance with approved procedures and Delegations of Authority (DOA).
- Build and maintain strong working relationships with subcontractors, the customer and internal stakeholders.
- Manage and facilitate contractual variations and change control processes, ensuring alignment with project schedule, SHE, quality, risk, and budget objectives.
- Monitor, analyse, and report on subcontractor cost forecasts, commitments, and earned value to support effective project cost control.
- Act as the key commercial interface between head contract and subcontracts, ensuring contractual requirements, risk allocation, and changes are effectively flowed down and flowed up as required.
- Contribute to the development and improvement of contracts across the business
- Lead supplier evaluation and sourcing activities, providing commercial input and recommendations to support best-value procurement outcomes for the project and the business.
Essential Skills:
- Demonstrated experience managing complex, high-value contracts in a commercial or project environment is essential.
- Proven ability to analyse supplier proposals and contractual terms to identify, assess, and mitigate commercial and operational risks.
- Completion of Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) qualifications would be advantageous.
- Background in Project Management would be desirable.
- Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams and organisational boundaries to deliver business outcomes.
- Proven capability to build and maintain strong working relationships with key suppliers and internal stakeholders within a project-based environment.
The Hunter Class Frigate Program
BAE Systems Australia is leading the largest ever surface ship project in Australia's defence history - the design and build of Hunter class frigates. The Hunter Class Frigate Program is transforming Australia's shipbuilding industry by supporting the building of a world-class, continuous naval shipbuilding capability for our nation
Why BAE Systems?
Here you'll build a career with purpose and limitless possibilities. With lifelong learning and meaningful work - this is a place where you can grow your career with confidence and be empowered to be your best. You'll be recognised for your contribution and enjoy rewards tailored to what's most important to you and your family - support for your financial and personal wellbeing, as well as a balanced lifestyle. In an environment embracing sustainable ways of working and with a strong sense of shared purpose, our supportive culture is a place you can feel you belong and proud of the difference you make.
A place where everyone can thrive
We're committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We know that a diversity of backgrounds, perspectives and experiences strengthens our teams and is vital to the work we do.
We support our veteran community through VetNet Australia, along with initiatives such as Reserve Service Leave, a Veteran Mentoring Program, and partner-supported programs.
We welcome applications from all candidates and strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to apply.
We are proud to be recognised as an employer of choice for women by WORK180 and recipients of the Benchmarcx Top Employer for Candidate Experience Excellence 2026. As members of the Circle Back Initiative, we commit to responding to every applicant.
If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact our recruitment team to discuss the support you may need. You can also connect with us via Careers and Employment.
Security statement
Please note, as a defence security clearance is required for this role, applicants must be Australian citizens and either possess or be eligible to obtain and maintain one. Further information regarding security clearances.
