Our client is a national security-focused government organisation operating at the forefront of cyber defence, intelligence, and protective security. They play a critical role in safeguarding Australia’s national interests by identifying, assessing, and mitigating complex cyber threats in an increasingly hostile digital environment.
Working within a highly sensitive and mission-driven setting, this organisation brings together specialist expertise, cutting‑edge technology, and rigorous security practices to protect critical systems and infrastructure at a national scale.
About the Role
We are seeking experienced Lead Security Specialists – Vulnerability Assessors to join a high-performing cyber security team based in Canberra. In this role, you will lead and conduct advanced vulnerability assessments and penetration testing activities across complex ICT environments, helping identify and prioritise risks that could impact critical systems.
You will be responsible for driving forensically sound investigations, evaluating security controls, and providing expert guidance to improve security architecture and threat awareness. This is a senior, hands-on role requiring both deep technical expertise and the ability to provide authoritative advice to stakeholders across the organisation.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading and performing complex, forensically sound investigations across a wide range of systems and devices
- Identifying, assessing, and prioritising vulnerabilities discovered through penetration testing and simulated attack exercises
- Analysing sophisticated threat profiles and translating findings into actionable security recommendations
- Providing expert advice on improving ICT security posture and mitigating emerging risks
- Reviewing system designs, security controls, and architectures to ensure secure integration and efficient use of technology
- Contributing to the continuous improvement of security standards, practices, and risk management approaches
The ideal candidate is a highly skilled cyber security professional with extensive experience in vulnerability assessment and penetration testing within complex, high-security environments. You will bring proven leadership capability, strong analytical skills, and the confidence to operate as a trusted technical authority.
You will demonstrate:
- Advanced experience in penetration testing and simulated attack exercises at a senior or lead level
- Strong knowledge of threat intelligence, threat modelling, and vulnerability management
- The ability to lead teams, guide technical decision-making, and mentor others
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical risks to diverse stakeholders
- Relevant industry certifications (e.g. CREST, CHECK, or equivalent) highly regarded
Candidates must also be willing to undergo an Organisational Suitability Assessment (OSA) prior to engagement.
Why partner with Whizdom?
We’re Whizdom. We view you as an extension of our strong, dependable brand and have differentiators which really are different! The Whizdom way:
- We pay our contractors same day you submit your timesheet!
- We are Level 3, DISP certified and have signed the Veteran Employment Commitment and been awarded the highest level of compliance to this important initiative, proactively assisting veterans transitioning from the forces to civilian roles. We’ve been lucky enough to win industry awards for our high level of process compliance and are ISO 9001 certified. Our commitment to reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions has been accredited in line with large global organisations.
- We value diversity and welcome applications from Indigenous Australians, people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds and people living with a disability.
Location: The role is based in Canberra ACT.
Contract terms: 12 months from commencement date, plus 2x 12 month extensions
Experience Level: Senior – EL1 Equivalent
Security Requirements: Current Top-Secret Positive Vetting (TSPV) security clearance is strongly preferred, however candidates who have held a TSPV in the previous 12-month period (which has since been downgraded) may be considered. An OSA(Organisational Suitability Assessment) will be required for this position.
How to Apply: Please upload your resume to apply. Please note you will need to complete selection criteria to complete this application process. We will be in touch with instructions for suitably skilled candidates.
Candidates will need to be willing to undergo pre-employment screening checks which may include, ID and work rights, security clearance verification and any other client requested checks.
Applications open until 8am 14 May 2026.
Reach Damien on 0480 002 503 or damienm@whizdom.com.au for any further information.
