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Defence Studies Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Demonstrated experience in nuclear, defence or other safety-critical industries, with a strong ... paid study leave, global career opportunities Ready to push the limits of what's possible? We ...

$97K - $132K/yr

Experience working within defence, research, nuclear or other highly regulated environments is ... paid study leave, global career opportunities Ready to push the limits of what's possible? We ...

$99K - $135K/yr

Experience working within defence, research, nuclear or other highly regulated environments is ... paid study leave, global career opportunities Ready to push the limits of what's possible? We ...

Practical experience of managing programs & projects concerned with the conduct of studies that address the impact of military capability change. * Expertise in applying analytical methods to defence ...

Practical experience of managing programs & projects concerned with the conduct of studies that address the impact of military capability change. * Expertise in applying analytical methods to defence ...

$123K/yr

... defence programme. This role is based in Adelaide, suitably qualified candidates will be relocated ... paid study leave, global career opportunities Ready to push the limits of what's possible? We ...

$112K/yr

... defence programme. This role is based in Adelaide, suitably qualified candidates will be relocated ... paid study leave, global career opportunities Ready to push the limits of what's possible? We ...

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Defence Studies information

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$21.5K

$276K

$342.5K

How much do defence studies jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for defence studies in the United States is $275,955.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $250,000.00 and $338,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Defence Studies?

Defence Studies is an academic field that focuses on the study of national security, military strategy, defense policy, and the analysis of military conflicts and peacekeeping efforts. It encompasses subjects such as international relations, military history, strategic studies, and security studies. The field prepares students for careers in the armed forces, government, policy analysis, and defense-related organizations by providing a comprehensive understanding of defense mechanisms and global security challenges.

What is the difference between Defence Studies vs Security Studies?

AspectDefence StudiesSecurity Studies
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Defence, Military, or Strategic StudiesBachelor's or Master's in Security, International Relations, or Strategic Studies
Work EnvironmentMilitary institutions, defense agencies, research centersGovernment agencies, think tanks, international organizations
Industry UsagePrimarily in defense and military sectorsBroader, including national security, cybersecurity, and international security

Defence Studies focuses on military strategy, defense policies, and armed forces, often within military or defense institutions. Security Studies covers a wider range of topics like national security, cybersecurity, and international security, involving government agencies and policy organizations. While they overlap in strategic analysis, Defence Studies is more military-centric, whereas Security Studies encompasses broader security issues.

Is a defence studies degree worth it?

A defence studies degree provides knowledge of military strategy, security policies, and international relations, which can lead to careers in defense analysis, intelligence, or government agencies. The degree often requires strong analytical skills and may benefit from internships or security clearances for certain roles.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In defense studies, high-paying roles such as senior military officers, defense contractors, and government officials can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with experience, security clearances, and leadership responsibilities. These positions often require advanced degrees, specialized skills, and extensive experience in defense analysis, policy, or strategic planning.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Defence Studies, and how can they effectively navigate them?

Professionals in Defence Studies often encounter challenges such as rapidly evolving security threats, the need to stay updated on global military strategies, and working within multidisciplinary teams that may include policymakers, analysts, and military personnel. Navigating these challenges requires strong research skills, adaptability, and effective communication to translate complex information into actionable insights. Engaging in continuous professional development, participating in relevant seminars, and fostering collaborative relationships within and outside the organization can help professionals stay ahead in this dynamic field.

What jobs can I get with a military studies degree?

A military studies degree can lead to careers in defense analysis, intelligence, security consulting, and military planning. Graduates often work for government agencies, defense contractors, or in roles requiring strategic, analytical, and leadership skills, sometimes requiring security clearances or specialized training.

What biology jobs pay over $100k?

In the field of biology, roles such as biomedical directors, pharmaceutical executives, and certain research scientists can earn over $100,000 annually. These positions often require advanced degrees, specialized skills, and experience in areas like biotechnology, pharmacology, or healthcare management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Defence Studies professional, and why are they important?

To excel in Defence Studies, you need a solid background in political science, international relations, and military strategy, typically supported by a relevant degree or advanced studies. Familiarity with analytical tools, defense policy databases, and intelligence systems is often required. Critical thinking, research proficiency, and strong written and verbal communication skills are crucial soft skills in this field. These skills enable professionals to effectively analyze security issues, inform policy decisions, and communicate complex concepts to stakeholders.
More about Defence Studies jobs
Infographic showing various Defence Studies job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Locum Tenens, 12% Internship, 46% As Needed, 19% Full Time, 17% Temporary, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 71% Physical, 22% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $275,955 per year, or $132.7 per hour.
Relocate to Australia: Principal - Nuclear Safety Management System Assurance

Relocate to Australia: Principal - Nuclear Safety Management System Assurance

AECOM

Honolulu, HI • Hybrid

Part-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


AECOM rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 62 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 79 rated construction


Job description

Company Description

Work with Us. Change the World.

At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.

There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.

Job Description

As a Principal – Nuclear Safety Management System Assurance, you will provide technical leadership in the development, implementation and continual improvement of Nuclear Safety Management Systems (NSMS) for complex and highly regulated environments. Acting as a subject matter expert, you will ensure governance frameworks, policies, processes and assurance methodologies are robust, regulator-ready and aligned with nuclear industry best practice. Working closely with multidisciplinary teams and senior stakeholders, you will play a critical role in embedding nuclear safety principles, governance excellence and organisational resilience across major programmes.

This role is based in Adelaide. Suitability qualified personnel will be relocated. 

How you’ll make a difference:

  • Lead the development and maintenance of Nuclear Safety Management System documentation, including policies, frameworks, processes and technical standards.
  • Ensure NSMS artefacts align with regulatory requirements, industry standards and international nuclear safety frameworks.
  • Develop governance structures, accountability frameworks and assurance methodologies that support effective nuclear oversight.
  • Provide technical leadership on nuclear safety culture initiatives, compliance programmes and continuous improvement activities.
  • Support audit readiness, regulatory engagement and the development of compliance verification and assurance tools.
  • Review and assure the quality, consistency and technical integrity of governance and safety management documentation.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders across engineering, operations, quality, risk and programme teams to drive governance excellence.
Qualifications

The following qualifications and experience are highly desired, but if you don’t tick all the boxes, you could still be a perfect fit for this role. Please apply, all applications will be considered.

The qualities that help you thrive:

  • Degree qualification in Engineering, Science, Risk, Quality, Governance or a related discipline.
  • Demonstrated experience in nuclear, defence or other safety-critical industries, with a strong focus on governance, assurance or management systems.
  • Experience developing, implementing or assuring management systems, governance frameworks or regulatory compliance programmes.
  • Strong understanding of nuclear safety principles, including defence-in-depth, safety culture and organisational governance.
  • Working knowledge of international nuclear frameworks and standards, including IAEA, WANO, INPO, ISO 9001 and ISO 19443.
  • Proven experience engaging with regulators, audits, inspections or compliance assurance activities.
  • Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement and technical writing skills, with the ability to translate complex requirements into practical solutions.

Australian Citizenship, with the ability to obtain defence clearance or suitably cleared AUKUS clearance is required for this role. 


Additional Information

Why you’ll love working with us:

  • Flexible work arrangements, including alternative start/finish times, part-time, job-sharing and hybrid work options
  • Purchase up to 6 weeks additional annual leave per year         
  • Flex public holidays – swap Easter or other holidays for ones that suit you better
  • Continuous learning and growth - lunch and learns, professional development courses, financial study assistance, 5 days paid study leave, global career opportunities

Ready to push the limits of what’s possible?

We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, additional health or mental health needs, and/or neurodiverse conditions. If you require any adjustments during the hiring process, please let us know.

Applications are reviewed as they come in, and the role may close earlier than expected, so if this opportunity sounds like you, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Learn more about life at AECOM: LinkedIn, Facebook , Instagram, X, YouTube - explore our AECOM voices, employee stories, latest projects, and much more!

At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.

AECOM acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands on which we, our clients and our communities live and work around Australia. We pay our respects to their cultures and to their Elders — past, present, and emerging. We are committed to connecting to Country in our work through meaningful engagement with First Nations peoples and businesses.  Find out more about our Australian Reconciliation Action Plan here: https://aecom.com/au/our-vision-for-reconciliation/.

About AECOM

AECOM is the world’s trusted infrastructure consulting firm, delivering professional services throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. On projects spanning transportation, buildings, water, new energy and the environment, our public- and private-sector clients trust us to solve their most complex challenges. Our teams are driven by a common purpose to deliver a better world through our unrivaled technical and digital expertise, a culture of equity, diversity and inclusion, and a commitment to environmental, social and governance priorities. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm and its Professional Services business had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. See how we are delivering sustainable legacies for generations to come at aecom.com and @AECOM.

Freedom to Grow in a World of Opportunity 

You will have the flexibility you need to do your best work with hybrid work options. Whether you’re working from an AECOM office, remote location or at a client site, you will be working in a dynamic environment where your integrity, entrepreneurial spirit and pioneering mindset are championed.

You will help us foster a culture of equity, diversity and inclusion – a safe and respectful workplace, where we invite everyone to bring their whole selves to work using their unique talents, backgrounds and expertise to create transformational outcomes for our clients.

AECOM provides a wide array of compensation and benefits programs to meet the diverse needs of our employees and their families. We also provide a robust global well-being program. We’re the world’s trusted global infrastructure firm, and we’re in this together – your growth and success are ours too.

Join us, and you’ll get all the benefits of being a part of a global, publicly traded firm – access to industry-leading technology and thinking and transformational work with big impact and work flexibility. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in each person’s potential, and we’ll help you reach yours.


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