Electronic Observer

Role overview

Leidos Airborne Solutions Australia is seeking an Electronic Observer to join its airborne surveillance team in Darwin or Broome. This position comes with 6 weeks of annual leave and offers a pathway into future roles such as Electronic Mission Coordinator. The workplace is certified as family friendly and is designed to support employees through different stages of life and family responsibilities.

About the organisation

Leidos supports government and commercial customers with mission-focused technology and services. In Australia, the airborne solutions business carries out border surveillance and search-and-rescue missions, operating across aviation bases, a 24/7 operations centre, a systems integration lab and a mission equipment service centre. The team also works with local SMEs to prototype, test and integrate advanced ISR mission systems.

What the role involves

As an Airborne Surveillance Observer, you will work aboard a specially modified regional turboprop aircraft fitted with advanced surveillance and mission equipment. You will report to the Electronic Mission Coordinator while airborne and collaborate with a skilled crew to support civil maritime surveillance operations. A key part of the job is accurately collecting mission data and intelligence and distributing it securely to clients and stakeholders.

This role is suited to someone looking for an unusual career path without needing an aviation background. The work includes flying to distinctive locations across Australia and the Pacific, operating in airborne environments and a range of weather conditions, and taking part in deployments across multiple locations.

Training and working conditions

Successful applicants must complete 16 weeks of training based in Darwin or Broome from the start date. Extended leave outside normal circumstances is not available during this training period. The role is covered by the Surveillance AU Pilot & Observer Enterprise Agreement 2024-2028.

Requirements

You should bring a Senior First Aid Certificate or an equivalent qualification, along with intermediate-level experience using computers and IT systems. Candidates must be able to commit to the full 16-week training program in Darwin or Broome, meet pre-employment medical requirements and Civil Aviation Safety Authority medical standards, and show a strong commitment to safe work practices.

The role also calls for the ability to work independently and within a team, build strong working relationships, and maintain a high level of integrity, discretion and confidentiality. Applicants need to be Australian citizens, at least 18 years old at the time of application, and willing to obtain and hold a baseline AGSVA security clearance.

Recruitment process and additional notes

The hiring process is expected to include 1 to 2 interviews, background checks, a police check and a pre-employment medical. Candidates may also need to satisfy International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) requirements, which can limit eligibility for some dual nationals, permanent residents or former nationals of certain countries under ITAR 126.1.

Leidos is committed to an accessible recruitment process and can provide support during application or recruitment if needed. The organisation is also focused on diversity, inclusion and equal opportunity, and welcomes applicants from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people with disabilities, veterans, neurodiverse people, and people of all genders, sexualities and age groups.

The company also highlights its advocacy groups, including Women and Allies Network, Young Professionals, Defence & Emergency Services, Action for Accessibility and Abilities, and Pride+, which support connection and community across the workforce.

Pay and benefits

Leidos states that it offers competitive compensation and a broader benefits package that may include health and wellness programs, income protection, paid leave and retirement support. The employer notes that pay ranges are guidelines only and final offers may depend on responsibilities, education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, internal equity, market data, any applicable bargaining agreement and other legal factors.

Safety and compliance

Leidos warns applicants to be alert to fraud and notes that it will not request payment-related information or advance money during the hiring process. Official communication is carried out through Leidos.com email systems, not free personal email services or messaging apps. The company also states its commitment to non-discrimination and equal consideration for qualified applicants under applicable laws.

About the work culture

The role is described as fast-paced, mission-driven and suited to people who want to contribute to work that protects national interests and saves lives. Leidos emphasizes innovation, inclusion, shared values and a high-performance environment where employees are encouraged to help shape outcomes and take on challenging work.