Aerospace Jobs in AU (Jun 26)

Australia's aerospace industry is growing rapidly, driven by significant defence investment, an expanding space sector, and the continued strength of commercial aviation. Aerospace companies in Australia range from global OEM giants to specialist SMEs delivering maintenance, manufacturing, and systems integration services. Whether you are a graduate engineer, an experienced aerospace professional, or a technician seeking opportunities in this sector, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of Australia's leading aerospace employers in 2026 — and where they are hiring.

The Australian Aerospace Sector in 2026

Australia's aerospace and defence industry contributes more than $12 billion annually to the national economy and employs over 20,000 people in direct roles, with a much larger indirect workforce across manufacturing, maintenance, logistics, and technology services. The Australian Government's 2024 Defence Industrial Strategy and the AUKUS partnership have significantly expanded demand for aerospace skills and capabilities, particularly in areas such as autonomous systems, advanced air vehicles, satellite communications, and sovereign manufacturing. The industry is geographically dispersed, with major hubs in Queensland, South Australia, New South Wales, and the ACT.

Major Aerospace Companies in Australia

Airbus Australia

Airbus operates in Australia through its Defence and Space, and Helicopters divisions. It supports the Royal Australian Air Force's fleet of KC-30A tanker aircraft and provides maintenance and support for defence helicopter programmes. Airbus is also involved in Australian space sector initiatives through satellite communications programmes. Key hiring locations include Brisbane, Adelaide, and Canberra. For a full breakdown of roles and salaries at Airbus, see our Airbus Job Application & Careers Australia 2026 guide.

Boeing Defence Australia (BDA)

Boeing Defence Australia is one of the country's largest aerospace employers, responsible for the sustainment of Royal Australian Air Force aircraft including the F/A-18F Super Hornet, EA-18G Growler, P-8A Poseidon, and other platforms. BDA operates primarily from RAAF Base Amberley (Queensland), RAAF Base Williamtown (NSW), and Canberra, employing thousands of engineers, LAMEs, technicians, and programme managers. BDA also delivers the AIR 5349 Wedgetail sustainment programme and supports various advanced systems integration projects.

BAE Systems Australia

BAE Systems Australia is a leading defence contractor with a major presence in South Australia, particularly in support of the Hunter-class frigate programme and naval combat systems integration. In the aerospace domain, BAE Systems supports RAAF platforms, cyber systems, and electronic warfare capabilities. The Adelaide-based operations are among the company's largest globally outside the UK. BAE Systems employs engineers, project managers, and systems specialists across aerospace, maritime, and land domains.

Lockheed Martin Australia

Lockheed Martin Australia provides aerospace and defence systems across space, aeronautics, and rotary missions. The company is a major partner in Australia's F-35A Joint Strike Fighter programme, supporting systems integration and sustainment at RAAF Base Williamtown and Tindal. Lockheed Martin Australia also has significant space sector activities through satellite systems and mission control support. Hiring is concentrated in Canberra, Brisbane, and Sydney.

RUAG Australia

RUAG Australia provides maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services for Australian military and commercial aviation fleets. The company is heavily involved in the sustainment of the RAAF's PC-9/A aircraft and provides aerospace engineering support across multiple platforms. RUAG hires LAMEs, engineers, and technical support staff primarily in NSW and Queensland.

L3Harris Australia

L3Harris Technologies in Australia delivers advanced defence technology including communications systems, electronic warfare, and avionics. The company supports several RAAF and ADF programmes and employs engineers, systems specialists, and project managers across Canberra, Sydney, and Brisbane.

Northrop Grumman Australia

Northrop Grumman's Australian operations support defence surveillance, cyber, and space programmes. The company is involved in the AIR 7000 Triton maritime surveillance system and several classified intelligence and space systems programmes. Key offices are in Canberra and Melbourne.

Raytheon Australia

Raytheon Australia provides missile systems, radar, and electronic warfare capabilities to the Australian Defence Force. The company employs engineers, project managers, and technical specialists across Canberra, Melbourne, and Adelaide, with significant work related to integrated air and missile defence systems.

Space Connect / Australian Space Agency Ecosystem

Australia's growing space sector includes a network of emerging companies such as Gilmour Space Technologies (Queensland), Skykraft (ACT), and Inovor Technologies (SA), as well as the Australian Space Agency based in Adelaide. The sector is attracting increasing government and private investment, creating new engineering, software, and operations roles for those interested in the space economy.

Skills Most in Demand in Australian Aerospace

The most sought-after skills in Australian aerospace in 2026 include licensed aircraft maintenance engineering (LAME — CASA Part 66), avionics and electronic warfare systems expertise, software engineering (particularly real-time and embedded systems), cyber security and resilience engineering, systems engineering, autonomous systems and UAV operations, and programme management with defence contracting experience. Australian Government security clearances — particularly at NV1 and NV2 levels — are a significant enabler for roles across the defence aerospace sector.

How to Break Into the Australian Aerospace Industry

For those entering the sector, a degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or computer science from an accredited Australian university is the most common pathway. TAFE and RTO qualifications in aviation maintenance and avionics provide access to technical trade roles. Many major defence contractors run graduate programmes and internships that provide structured entry into the sector. Engaging with industry bodies such as the Defence Industry Advisory Council (DIAC), the Australian Industry and Defence Network (AIDN), and the Space Industry Association of Australia (SIAA) can provide networking opportunities and awareness of emerging roles.

Aerospace jobs in Australia