Java Developer

Our Canberra-based federal government client is seeking an experienced Java Developer.

The Java Developer supports the Team Leader in the day-to-day development, maintenance, enhancement, and support of applications in the ICT environment, including participating in section planning for short term tasks and contributing to strategic planning for longer term initiatives. The role is responsible for undertaking work that is moderately complex to complex and/or sensitive in nature, under limited direction, utilising expertise and knowledge in designing software applications to meet the organisation’s needs.

The candidate must hold an active Negative Vetting Level 1 security clearance prior to commencement.

Estimated start date - Tuesday, 15 October 2026

Initial contract duration - 15 December 2026 to 30 June 2027

Extension term - 12 months

Number of extensions - 1

Experience level - APS6 equivalent

Location of work - ACT

Working arrangements - Hybrid

Maximum hours - 40 hours per week

Applicants will perform the role at the National Office in Canberra. Hybrid working arrangements (i.e. a combination of onsite attendance at National Office and remote working) will be accepted. Candidates proposing relocation or long-distance commuting arrangements will not be considered.

Security clearance - Must have Negative Vetting Level 1 clearance

Closing date - Tuesday November 10

Key duties and responsibilities

Role will be responsible for, but not limited to:

• Appling expertise to enhance and improve existing software, including designing, developing, implementing, and testing software systems, in line with business requirements and software development standards.
• Collaboration with other teams, investigate and resolve issues with the operation of an application.
• Addressing errors by making appropriate changes and rechecking the program to ensure that the desired results are produced.
• Performing revision, repair, or expansion of existing programs to increase operating efficiency or adapt to new requirements.
• Providing a high standard of technical and design documentation.
• Assisting in the development of specialist and/or technical expertise to less experienced and more junior developers.
• Contributing to project progress reporting and comply with governance processes.
• Developing and supporting key internal and external relationships, including managing stakeholders to achieve work area and agency goals.
• Making and communicating decisions using good judgement, expertise, and knowledge, governed by legislation, regulations, best practice principles or relevant operating instructions and procedures.
• Contributing to doctrine, election preparation, and delivery activities in accordance with the election readiness framework, according to individual accountabilities and responsibilities.
• Performing additional duties or assume responsibility of functions as directed from time to time.
• The volume of duties may increase significantly during peak operational periods, including electoral events and other time-critical activities. There may be a requirement to work outside of standard business hours to meet operational priorities and delivery requirements.

Criteria

The client has specified that each candidate must provide a one page pitch to address all criteria specified. This is equal to 5000 characters.

Essential criteria

• Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain high quality, robust and scalable enterprise level software solutions using Java and Java EE.

• Knowledge and experience in successfully setting priorities and delivering quality results on time and on budget

• Proven ability to communicate effectively whilst anticipating stakeholder needs and expectations across a geographically dispersed network.

• Proven analytical abilities with the ability to propose and facilitate change and contribute to business improvement strategies.

• Demonstrated personal integrity whilst achieving results within legislative and policy parameters.

Desirable criteria

• Relevant qualifications in information technology.

• Expertise in software version upgrades

• Knowledge of, or ability to quickly gain knowledge of Australian electoral law and practice

• Knowledge of, or ability to quickly gain knowledge of the Commonwealth frameworks, including ICT frameworks

Submissions

Please provide a one-page pitch addressing the selection criteria, in addition to a resume of no more than three pages, contact details for two referees and your preferred hourly or daily rate.

Why Data Knowhow?

As a contractor with Data Knowhow, you will be provided with mentoring and training to advance your career opportunities - we are keen to support you in your career journey and expand future opportunities for you. Data Knowhow provide expertise in data management, analytics and communication, with our staff mentoring and supporting you during your placement with our clients.

Data Knowhow provides EAP services managed by Wisdom Wellbeing (https://www.wisdomwellbeing.com/au/) and salary sacrificing opportunities offered through Simplygreen (https://www.simplygreen.com.au/).

12% superannuation is provided on top of your requested daily rate if you are successful in this position.

We are continually expanding our offerings to make life as a Data Knowhow employee a valuable experience.

Applications close Tuesday 10 November, 2026.

Position contact

Lisa Cornish

Director, Data Knowhow

lisa.cornish@dataknowhow.com.au

+61 412 073 873