Cost Estimation Analyst | Defence Aerospace

Develop and analyse cost estimates for major Defence projects.

Join a stable, established and well respected leading organisation in Defence.

Australian citizenship, NV1 clearance, ITAR compliance required.

Amentum is continually expanding our opportunities working on prominent defence projects across air, land and sea supporting the critical capabilities that keep Australia safe. We have a growing presence in cyber, space and nuclear programs.

Tell me about this role:

Amentum are seeking an experienced NV1 cleared Cost Estimation Analyst professional to play a key role within Air Force Headquarters (AFHQ). This function will work under limited direction to perform and achieve moderately complex cost estimation tasks supporting Air Force Headquarters (AFHQ) as an experienced (Level 3) Cost Estimation Analyst to support ‘AIR5349 EA-18G Growler’ Project. AFHQ provide support to a wide range of Air-force units in project and product delivery in terms of providing and meeting Air-force capability requirements to meet Operational outcomes.

This role offers generous training and development opportunities as well as other benefits including subsidised parking, flexible working and different leave arrangements including paid parental, study, reserve and volunteer leave.

What will I be doing day to day?

In this role, your day‑to‑day responsibilities will include:

Lead and support cost modelling and cost estimation activities across AFHQ and assigned projects

Develop, maintain and analyse whole-of-life cost estimates and cost models to support Gate 2 and Government Second Pass approval activities

Conduct complex cost estimation, financial analysis and pricing investigations to inform Defence decision-making and project outcomes

Research, collect and normalise data to support the development, review and independent assessment of cost estimates

Prepare high-quality project documentation, briefs, submissions and reports for Defence and Government committees

Engage with a broad range of domestic and international stakeholders to identify requirements, resolve complex issues and achieve project outcomes

Analyse and evaluate cost estimates, providing evidence-based advice and recommendations to senior management

Support milestone reviews, government approvals and independent cost assessments through the delivery of robust cost analysis

Translate complex research and analytical findings into clear, objective and well-documented conclusions

Contribute to the delivery of strategic objectives and initiatives through cost modelling, analysis and reporting activities

Collaborate within an integrated workforce, providing support to Air Force Headquarters (AFHQ) and the AIR5349 EA-18G Growler Project

What sort of skills do I need?

To be successful in this role, you’ll bring:

5–7+ years’ experience in cost estimation, cost modelling, and forecasting, ideally within Defence, CASG, or complex government environments

Proven experience in cost estimation, cost modelling and cost analysis within complex project environments

Strong analytical, research and problem-solving skills, with the ability to draw objective, evidence-based conclusions

Demonstrated ability to develop independent cost estimates and support business cases, milestone reviews and government approval processes

Experience preparing high-quality briefs, submissions, reports and other Defence-style documentation

Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to build relationships, influence outcomes and manage competing priorities

Ability to interpret and apply legislative frameworks, government decision-making processes and Defence policy requirement

Experience conducting financial investigations, pricing analysis and evaluation activities

Strong communication skills, including the ability to explain complex analysis to senior leaders and diverse stakeholders

Ability to work independently under limited direction while delivering outcomes in a fast-paced, evolving environment

Resilience, adaptability and a proactive approach to achieving project outcomes

Australian citizenship and NV1 security clearance as a minimum

What’s in it for me?

Flexibility - We like our employees to have the flexibility they need to live the lives they choose. With flexible working options such as WFH where possible.

Inclusion - Our employees should feel safe bringing their whole self to work, we offer a number of programs promoting inclusion.

Benefits and Rewards – Our benefits and rewards includes additional superannuation; flexible leave options; salary continuation insurance; professional certification bonus; employee discount program.

Amentum: Trusted Partner in National Security

Amentum is a key service provider to the Australian Government, supporting critical national security and Defence capabilities across land, air, maritime, cyber, space, nuclear, and digital domains. With over 880 professionals nationwide, we deliver complex infrastructure, logistics, and technical solutions with a strong focus on quality, safety, and innovation.

With 27+ years of experience and a presence in major cities and regions, we’re proud of our people - our greatest asset. Join us and be part of a high-performing team with exceptional benefits and career opportunities. Apply directly or reach out to Jeremy Parkinson, jeremy.parkinson@global.amentum.com.