Test and Acceptance Manager

• Test and Acceptance Manager
• Competitive salary package and excellent superannuation
• Sydney or Melbourne based

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:

Test and Acceptance Manager We are seeking an experienced Testing & Acceptance Manager to lead the end-to-end testing, commissioning and acceptance of the company’s national telecommunications infrastructure projects. This role will ensure all infrastructure is delivered, validated and accepted in line with contractual, technical and operational requirements, supporting quality and readiness across the network.

As Testing & Acceptance Manager, you will demonstrate strong analytical capability, attention to detail and the ability to interpret complex technical and contractual requirements. Risk identification, mitigation and control will be central to your role, alongside your ability to influence stakeholders, resolve issues and drive timely outcomes.

You will bring a deep understanding of telecommunications infrastructure testing, commissioning standards and acceptance frameworks, with experience across fibre optic networks, transmission systems and associated infrastructure. Your ability to standardise processes, uplift quality assurance practices and embed a culture of “right first time” delivery will be key to success.

Key Responsibilities will include:

Testing & Commissioning Leadership

• Lead the testing and acceptance framework across all infrastructure programs.
• Implement standardised testing, commissioning and handover processes.
• Ensure all infrastructure is tested and commissioned in accordance with technical specifications and design requirements.

Acceptance & Handover Governance

• Define and manage acceptance criteria across project deliverables.
• Lead formal acceptance processes, including Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) and final network commissioning.
• Ensure readiness for handover to operations. Quality Assurance & Compliance
• Drive a strong quality assurance culture across delivery partners.
• Ensure compliance with standards, industry codes and contractual obligations.
• Implement audit and assurance processes to verify testing outcomes and contractor performance.

Contractor & Vendor Management

• Manage contractors, integrators and vendors across testing and commissioning.
• Ensure testing obligations are clearly defined, understood and executed in line with project requirements.
• Resolve technical and performance issues through structured engagement.

Risk Management

• Identify and manage risks across testing, commissioning and network acceptance.
• Develop mitigation strategies to minimise delays and operational impacts.
• Provide clear reporting on progress, risks and readiness.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Collaborate closely with delivery, network operations, engineering and commercial teams.
• Act as the key interface across construction, engineering and operations.
• Provide guidance to senior management on testing strategies, risks and outcomes.

Continuous Improvement

• Drive improvements in testing efficiency, automation and standardisation.
• Drive lessons learned and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Support the development of scalable processes aligned to the companies growing infrastructure footprint. 

Expertise, experience & qualifications:

• Degree or diploma in Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field, or a trade background (e.g Electricain, Telecommunications Technician).
• Proven experience in telecommunications infrastructure testing, commissioning and acceptance.
• Experience across fibre optic networks, transmission systems and associated infrastructure.
• Strong understanding of testing methodologies (FAT, SAT and integrated system testing).
• Strong knowledge of quality assurance, standards and compliance requirements.
• Proven ability to manage contractors, vendors and cross-functional teams.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Experience in commissioning and handover of critical infrastructure into operations will be highly regarded. 

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.