About working with us

Job vacancies at the Australian Embassy in Tokyo are advertised below.

Locally engaged staff do not have diplomatic or consular status, privileges or immunity. Wages and conditions of service are based on Japanese labour laws and Japanese labour market conditions.

Please note that a security assessment is a mandatory condition of employment with the Embassy.

Current local job opportunities

Current local job opportunities

For current vacancies, and how to apply for vacancies at the Australian Embassy in Tokyo, please go to the following page: Current opportunities - local engagements

Defence Research Manager – Job Ref – 0701/2026

Applications close at 5p.m. JST on 10 November 2026

The Defence Section at the Australian Embassy in Tokyo is seeking a highly motivated and experienced professional to join our Defence Research Team and support the Australia-Japan defence relationship. The role provides specialist research, policy analysis, and advice with a focus on Japanese defence industry developments, defence science and technology policy, and Australia-Japan defence cooperation. Responsibilities include managing a team of locally engaged staff; monitoring and analysing developments in Japan's Ministry of Defense, Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Agency (ATLA), defence industry and research sectors; preparing reports and advice for Australian Defence stakeholders; liaising with government, industry and research organisations; and supporting high-level visits, meetings and engagements. The position also provides technical and sensitive Japanese-English interpretation for high-level bilateral engagements, translation services, and contributes to strengthening Australia-Japan defence industry and science and technology cooperation.
Applicants must demonstrate knowledge of defence policy and strategy, Japan-Australia defence relations, defence industry, science and technology, or related policy areas; high proficiency in written and spoken Japanese and English; strong research, analytical and stakeholder engagement skills; and the ability to manage competing priorities with limited supervision. Experience leading teams and managing sensitive information is highly desirable. 
Employment is subject to the successful candidate obtaining and maintaining a Negative Vetting Level 1 Australian Government Security Clearance. To be eligible for an Australian Government Security Clearance, applicants must be Australian citizens. Citizens of New Zealand, UK, USA or Canada may also be eligible. Information regarding Australian Government Security Clearances, including eligibility requirements, can be found here: About Security Clearances – The vetting assessment | Sectors | Security | Department of Defence

To maximise your chances of being shortlisted, your application should clearly outline how you meet the key responsibilities and selection criteria for this role.  For more information and to apply, please visit the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade - Jobs List - Local Engagements    

 

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The Embassy is an equal opportunity employer and is a smoke-free workplace.