Lead Optic Network Data Management Specialist

Application closing date: Sunday, 02 August 2026 • 11:59pm, Canberra time

Estimated start date: Monday, 24 August 2026

Location of work: ACT

Working arrangements: This is an on-site Canberra based role which requires 5 days in office. Remote / Interstate based candidates will not be considered.

Length of contract: 12 months

Contract extensions: 2x 12 months

Security clearance: Must have a current and active Negative Vetting Level 2 (Strong candidates without an NV2 may be considered)

Rates: $120 - $140 per hour (inc. super)

At Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade (DFAT), the Telecommunications and Data Centre Support (TCS) is responsible for delivering and operating the department’s communications and infrastructure backbone across data centres and global networks, supporting both projects and day-to-day operations.

The Telecommunications and Data Centre Support Section within the Infrastructure and Operational Support Branch of DFAT's Information Management and Technology Division has a requirement for an ICT labour hire resource to fill the role of Data Centre Optical Network Specialist with responsibility for providing critical capability to support and sustain DFAT’s core ICT infrastructure. This role underpins the operational performance of the Data Centre Network (DCN) and DFAT Optical Network (DON) across the two Canberra-based DFAT data centres managed by the Telecommunications and Data Centre Support Section (TCS).

The requirements of the role will include:

• Install and support network, server, and associated ICT infrastructure within DFAT data centres.
• Undertake fibre optic and copper cabling installation, termination, and testing, including rack preparation activities.
• Support the operation and sustainment of DCN and DON environments.
• Apply strong networking knowledge to troubleshoot, resolve, and optimise infrastructure performance.
• Assist in the development and maintenance of technical documentation under direction.
• Coordinate with internal teams and external vendors to deliver infrastructure solutions.
• Ensure all work is undertaken in accordance with DFAT standards, procedures, and safety requirements.

The Skills Framework for the Information Age (SFIA) has been used to inform the requirements. In summary, DFAT is seeking a candidate with the following relevant skillset:

• Delivery and Operataions - Technology Management - IT Infrastructure (ITOP) - Level 4

Relevant tertiary qualification in Information Technology, Telecommunications, Network Engineering or a related discipline; or equivalent demonstrated industry experience. Industry certifications (desirable), such as: Ciena certifications (e.g. Ciena Certified Network Associate/Professional), Cisco certifications (e.g. CCNA, CCNP). Optical networking or transport certifications (desirable), including DWDM/OTN-related qualifications, as well as structured cabling or fibre optic handling cert.

Essential criteria

1. Demonstrated minimum 5+ years’ experience engineering, operating, and supporting CIENA optical transport networks, including DWDM-based Data Centre Interconnect (DCI) solutions.
2. Strong understanding of optical network architecture, design, and implementation, including provisioning, testing, optimisation, and ongoing support of CIENA platforms to deliver high-capacity, resilient services.
3. Proven experience deploying and managing optical network infrastructure in data centre and enterprise environments, including fibre connectivity, carrier lead-in services, and end-to-end service commissioning.
4. Current Australian Government NV2 security clearance, or ability and willingness to obtain and maintain one.

Desirable criteria

1. Demonstrated ability to produce and maintain technical documentation, including High-Level Designs (HLD), Low-Level Designs (LLD), build guides, and operational procedures.
2. Experience working within government or large enterprise environments, particularly secure and/or multi-site network infrastructures.
3. Hands-on experience in data centre operations, including rack installation, structured cabling, and hardware lifecycle management.
4. Familiarity with telecommunications carriers and service providers, including coordination of circuits, provisioning activities, and fault resolution.

HOW TO APPLY

Please provide an updated CV (a maximum of 3-5 pages) to reflect your suitability to the role based on the job description. You will also need to complete responses to the essential and desirable criteria which is no more than 5000 characters for each response. Your application will be reviewed based on ability to demonstrate, or potential to develop, the capabilities required.