Network Administrators and COMSEC Account Managers
The Organisation
The Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) protects Australia and Australians from threats to their security. In a complex, challenging and changing security environment, our success is built on the imagination and intelligence of our team. ASIO’s people are ordinary Australians but they do extraordinary things – they are our most important asset. To be successful in our mission, we need talented people who are highly capable, dedicated, adaptable and resilient.
We seek to reflect the diversity of the community we protect. ASIO is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, where all staff are valued and respected. We welcome applications from all eligible candidates, irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious affiliation, age or disability. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples are encouraged to apply. We are secretive about what we do, not what we value.
The opportunity
ASIO is seeking highly skilled and detail-oriented Network Administrators and COMSEC Account Managers to manage and maintain the security and integrity of our network infrastructure, as well as ensure the secure handling and management of sensitive communications security (COMSEC) equipment and materials that underpin ASIO’s critical mission.
You’ll be part of a dynamic team where creativity, experimentation, and innovation are encouraged. Our collaborative culture fosters a sense of community among technologists, where you’ll have the opportunity to share ideas, develop new skills, and continuously learn from your peers.
A merit pool may be created to fill future vacancies which have the same or similar requirements to this position. This merit pool will be valid for up to 18 months.
This role may attract an additional technical skills allowance of up to 10% of base salary.
Role responsibilities
As a Network Administrator in ASIO you will:
- Design, configure, and troubleshoot network devices, including routers, switches, firewalls, and VPNs.
- Implement and maintain network security measures, such as access controls, intrusion detection, and encryption.
- Collaborate with senior engineers to develop and maintain network architecture and infrastructure.
- Conduct network performance monitoring and optimisation.
- Participate in incident response and problem management activities.
- Provide technical support and training to users.
- Stay up-to-date with emerging network technologies and threats, and apply this knowledge to improve ASIO’s network security posture.
As a COMSEC Account Manager in ASIO, you will:
- Manage and maintain COMSEC equipment, including encryption devices, cryptographic key generators, and authentication systems.
- Operate COMSEC systems such as the Australian Key Management Infrastructure (AKMI) and the Communications Security Accounting Reporting and Distribution System (CARDS).
- Maintain the accountability and control of COMSEC equipment and materials, including conducting regular audits and developing associated documentation such as Key Management Plans and Site Security Plans.
- Provide training and guidance on COMSEC procedures to authorised personnel.
- Coordinate with other organisations or agencies to ensure interoperability and compliance with COMSEC standards and regulations, including the Australian Communications Security Instruction (ACSI) suite of publications, the Australian Government’s Protective Security Policy Framework (PSPF) and the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) guidelines.
What you will bring
We invite applications from people with one or more of the following attributes:
- Strong understanding of networking fundamentals, including TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, and routing protocol.
- Familiarity with network security concepts, including firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion detection.
- Experience with network/system management tools.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
- Industry certifications such as Cisco CCNA or equivalent, ITIL Foundation in IT Service Management are advantageous.
- Previous experience in COMSEC Account Manager roles is advantageous.
- Relevant tertiary qualifications in information technology, computer science or related disciplines preferred.
- Up to 2 years experience in network/system administration or engineering is desirable.
In addition, it is desirable for Network Administrator applicants to be able to demonstrate experience in one or more of the following:
- Cisco routing, switching and access platforms IOS XE, SD-WAN, Catalyst.
- Cisco Data Centre platforms NX-OS and ACI.
- Cisco security and management platforms ISE, Firepower, DNAC.
- Cisco UC Platforms Call Manager, Cisco Meeting Server.
- Cloud (Azure, AWS, etc).
- Palo Alto Firewalls.
- SolarWinds, Splunk.
What we offer you
ASIO provides a number of benefits to its staff including:
- A competitive salary, including a 7.5% allowance for maintaining a TOP SECRET-Privileged Access security clearance.
- Employer superannuation contributions of 15.4%.
- A variety of leave options, in addition to the standard 4 weeks annual leave to ensure your work-life balance.
- Flexible working arrangements to assist you to maintain your work-life balance. (Please note: due to our unique working environment, work from home options are generally not available. Study assistance, including financial support and study leave for tertiary education.
- Access to 7 staff-led diversity and inclusion networks.
- Mentoring opportunities.
- Access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
Eligibility
To be eligible for the role, you must be:
- An Australian citizen.
- Assessed as suitable to hold and maintain a TOP SECRET-Privileged Access security clearance.
ASIO is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, where all staff are valued and respected. We welcome and value applications from all eligible candidates, irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious affiliation, age or disability. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are encouraged to apply.
Reasonable adjustments
Please advise us if you require any additional assistance in order to fully participate in the recruitment process or the workplace.
Location
These positions are located in Canberra, Sydney and Melbourne. Relocation assistance is provided to successful candidates where required.
How to apply
Click on ‘Apply online’ to commence your application. Your application must be complete and include the following:
- A written pitch of up to 800 words using examples to demonstrate how your skills and experience meet the requirements of the role.
- A current CV, no more than 2 pages in length, outlining your employment history, the dates and a brief description of your role, as well as any academic qualifications or relevant training you may have undertaken.
- Details of 2 referees, which must include a current or previous manager.
All employment decisions and selection processes at ASIO are based on merit principles and candidates must be prepared to undergo various selection stages.
ASIO holds all employment applications in the strictest of confidence. It is essential that you do the same. Please do not discuss your application with others as doing so may adversely affect your potential employment.
Closing date and time
Monday 27 January 2025, 5:00pm AEDT
No extensions will be granted and late applications will not be accepted.
Employment conditions
Employment is under the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation Act 1979. Conditions of service are similar to those applying in the Australian Public Service. We recognise entitlements accrued under the Public Service Act 1999 and provide for continuation of superannuation under the Commonwealth schemes. Salary packaging arrangements are also available.
Enquiries
If you require further information after reading the selection documentation, please contact ASIO Recruitment at careers@asio.gov.au or phone 02 6263 7888.
More information
For more information about ASIO, please visit: www.asio.gov.au.