About AARNet

Australia’s Academic and Research Network (AARNet), founded in 1989, has played a pivotal role in shaping Australia’s digital landscape as the pioneers of the country’s Internet. Our mission extends beyond mere connectivity; we are the architects, builders, and operators of a world-class network infrastructure that fuels critical research and learning. At AARNet, innovation thrives within a vibrant community

The Role

AARNet is seeking an enthusiastic Civil Design & Construction Planner to design telecommunications fibre optic projects. This role involves producing detailed designs for projects of varying sizes, complexities, and locations across all Australian states, both regional and metro. With the assistance of field staff, you will investigate possible fibre routes, develop cost models and estimations, and produce civil and mechanical designs that will service Australia’s academic and research sector.
A capacity to observe, learn, and apply new knowledge efficiently will support your success in designing critical national infrastructure projects. These projects power network services for a range of external and internal customers across Australia, including regional schools, major universities, and innovative research centres. Your excellent technology skills, coupled with an eye for detail, will assist you in creating quality and accurate drawings for use by our Project Planning, Civil Construction, and Reporting functions. Strong communication skills and an ability to empathise and listen will support you in effectively liaising with multiple internal and external stakeholders to achieve positive and viable outcomes.

Responsibilities

As a member of the Infrastructure Group, you will work closely with Construction Managers and our project planning team to conceptualise fibre optic construction projects that meet strategic objectives and customer requirements. You will investigate and plan potential projects, balancing technical project requirements with civil construction methodology options to produce project drafts, drawings, and proposals that are commercially viable.
Your experience with, or desire to learn, design software such as Auto CAD and Visio will provide the foundation for your skills development in this role. Applying your ability to think analytically and solve problems conceptually, you will use field source and geographical data to produce high-quality and detailed project design solutions. You will be supported by subject matter experts to produce construction drafts and designs that will be used to make strategic infrastructure decisions.
Your interpersonal skills will support you in connecting and empathising with internal and external stakeholders, ranging from customers to impacted landowners. (Previous experience in first-person land access/negotiation is highly desirable but not essential.) You will demonstrate excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to interpret project requirements and provide clear and concise messaging.
Project requirements will differ between each project, and you will be required to produce fit-for-purpose civil designs, drawing on your ability to manage project workloads and volumes. The variety and volume of projects will draw on your effective organisation and planning skills.
Projects will range in size, location, and complexity, and regular travel to regional locations across Australia will be required to gain an ‘on the ground’ understanding of the network. This will assist you in conceptualising projects and potential paths

Expertise, experience & qualifications

• You have good written and verbal communication skills
• You have strong computer skills and are comfortable using a range of design software including Auto Cad & Visio
• You have knowledge and experience with construction methodologies
• You have experience designing construction routes in the telecommunications industry. Similar underground construction industries such as Power or Pipelines will be considered.
• You have strong organisation and planning skills
• You have good interpersonal skills and will enjoy working collaboratively

Why Work at AARNet?

At AARNet, we’re passionate about advancing global education and critical research. Our Australia-wide network, with global reach, supports some of the most demanding network-based applications. If you’re looking for a purpose-driven workplace where you can make a difference, consider joining our team.
Make an impact: By working with us, you’ll directly contribute to critical research in fields like astronomy, physics, earth observation, environment, health, and medicine. Our mission matters, and we’re committed to providing equal opportunities for all.
Competitive Benefits and Conditions:

• Superannuation: Enjoy a 17% superannuation contribution.
• Parental/Adoption Leave: We offer 24 weeks of paid parental leave and superannuation top-up.
• Secondary Carer Leave: 16 weeks of paid parental leave for secondary caregivers.
• Wellness Leave: 2 days per month paid Women’s wellness leave.
• Family & Domestic Violence Leave: 20 days of paid leave.
• Other Supportive Leaves: Paid leave for various life events such as weddings, deaths, trauma, and disasters.
• Purchased Leave: Options to purchase additional Annual Leave.
• Flexible Work Options: We support work-life balance.
• Equal Opportunity Focus: We value diversity and inclusion.
• Social Responsibility and Ethics: We lead by example.
• Cutting-Edge Technologies: Access to work with the latest industry technology.