Operational Environment and Effects - Senior and Mid-Level Planner (Defence)

TL;DR

Operational Environment and Effects Planner (Defence): Design, develop, and deliver advanced collective training activities for Combat Training Centre with an accent on operational, environmental, informational, and sustainment effects. Focus on creating realistic exercise scenarios, integrating functional expertise, and synchronising planning across major training exercises.

Location: Townsville based personnel preferred; high performing remote candidates considered. Travel to various Defence locations required (up to 15 trips annually).

Company

Australia’s leading Defence-focused consulting organisation supporting Army readiness through advanced collective training capabilities.

What you will do

• Design and develop realistic exercise scenarios and structured planning materials.
• Participate in planning conferences, workshops, and working groups.
• Provide subject matter expertise in operational, informational, environmental, and sustainment domains.
• Support synchronisation, coordination, and execution of training activities.
• Contribute to reviews, observations, reporting, and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with planners, coaching staff, and Defence stakeholders.

Requirements

• NV1 (SECRET) security clearance minimum (NV2 preferred for some roles).
• Senior military planning experience: O6 (Colonel equivalent) for Tier A Lead, O5 (Lt Col) for Tier A Senior, O4 (Major) for Tier B.
• Experience in formation-level or higher headquarters planning, land-based collective training, and exercise management.
• Ability to produce high-quality planning artefacts and engage senior stakeholders.
• Ability to travel domestically for planning and training support.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and independent working skills.

Nice to have

• Joint or multi-agency planning experience.
• Combat Arms or Combat Support background (required for at least two Tier B roles).
• Experience at Brigade, Joint Task Force, or Division level.

Culture & Benefits

• Collaborative, mission-focused environment with camaraderie, innovation, dedication, respect, and excellence.
• Employee benefits platform, professional development, certifications, and study assistance.
• Mental health support via Employee Assistance Program and paid parental leave.
• Career growth through succession planning, mentorship, and internal promotions.
• Employee referral program with incentives and support for veterans.

Hiring process

• Submit complete online application via Careers page, answering all required questions.
• May create talent pool for similar opportunities within 12 months.