Lead Cost Analyst

Join our Downer Professional Services team and play a key role in delivering complex defence and national security projects that safeguard Australia’s future.  
Downer Professional Services comprises of three business units our Technical, Advisory, and Capability consulting practice, and Team Downer, which partners with CASG and NSSG as a major service provider to Defence. Together, we are a multi-disciplinary advisory and delivery partner of choice for clients across Defence and National Security. 
We are seeking an experienced Lead Cost Analyst to support a major Defence acquisition program within the CASG environment.
About the Role
Working closely with the Project Manager and Pricing Lead, you will take the lead on project cost estimation, financial modelling and the development of cost submissions supporting key Government approval processes. This is a senior role requiring strong Defence costing experience, commercial awareness and the ability to develop and clearly communicate complex financial information to senior stakeholders.
What You’ll Do  
You will play a key role in developing whole-of-life cost estimates, financial models and business cases for a major Defence acquisition project. You’ll analyse cost and schedule risks, support tender evaluations and Government submissions, and provide clear financial analysis to inform project planning and key investment decisions.
This role offers a broad scope, with key role responsibilities including: 

• Supporting cost proposals through Capability Costing Branch, Department of Finance and other external agency reviews.
• Providing clear written and verbal briefs to senior internal and external stakeholders.
• Providing strategic funding advice to support program affordability.
• Supporting project leadership with briefing materials, financial advice and status updates.
• Delivering cost modelling and analysis within short and sometimes competing timeframes.

What You’ll Bring  
 
You will bring strong experience in project costing, financial analysis and cost modelling, ideally gained within Defence, CASG or another complex Government acquisition environment.

You will have demonstrated experience developing robust cost estimates and financial models and be comfortable working across complex acquisition activities involving Government submissions, tender evaluation and senior stakeholder engagement. 

• Experience working on projects within the Defence Land Domain.
• Demonstrated experience leading the development of cost models for major acquisition projects.
• Experience developing cost submissions supporting Government approval processes.
• Practical experience with Defence's Capability Costing Tool and/or ACEIT.
• Experience evaluating complex tenders, particularly the financial and commercial components.
• Strong understanding of whole-of-life costing and project affordability.
• Experience developing and presenting financial advice to senior Defence and Government stakeholders

Due to the nature of the work, you are required to currently hold and maintain an AGSVA Security clearance as required by the Commonwealth. In some instances, compliance with International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) requirements may also be an inherent requirement. 
More than anything, you’ll bring a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and a commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes for our clients. 

Why Downer Professional Services 
At Downer Professional Services, we’re not just a workplace - we’re a business dedicated to contributing to the shaping of the future of defence in Australia. As the country’s only sovereign prime, we’re committed to making a real difference in protecting Australia’s interests.  

What is means to belong at Downer Professional Services  

• Meaningful work: Help to deliver critical Defence projects that protect Australia and shape its future. 
• Professional development: Access career mapping, accelerated learning programs, and shared learning through our Communities of Practice. 
• Great perks: Enjoy discounts on healthcare, retail, vehicles, and more through Perks@Downer. 
• Veteran support: Benefit from initiatives like up to 20 days of Reservist Leave to stay connected post-service. 

You want your work to matter and so do we. With over 26,000 people across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific, our team is made up of individuals with unique perspectives, backgrounds, and ideas. 
We know that diversity makes us stronger and we actively celebrate it through our commitment to inclusion and belonging. 
We’re committed to building a team that reflects the diverse communities we serve and we welcome people of all ages, genders, sexual orientations, cultures, abilities, and lived experiences. We especially encourage applications from those whose voices have traditionally been underrepresented in our industry, including women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, Māori and Pasifika Peoples, veterans, people with disability, and neurodivergent individuals. Even if your experience doesn’t align perfectly with this role, we’d still like to hear from you. If it feels like the right fit, apply - potential counts, and so do you. 
As a WORK180 Endorsed Employer, we support flexibility that works for your life, inclusive leadership that values your voice, and equitable access to opportunity so you can do your best work and bring your whole self to it. 
If you need support or adjustments through the recruitment process, just let us know, we’re here to help you put your best foot forward.