Mechatronics Engineer

Mō te tūnga | About the role

Join the Directorate of Land Engineering as a Mechatronics Engineer and help shape the future of NZDF land capability. This is a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of innovation, developing prototype solutions, advanced technologies, and engineering systems that support Land equipment, vehicle platforms, communications systems, and future capability needs. You’ll take concepts from inception to reality through documented design, prototyping, testing, and implementation, making a tangible impact on Defence outcomes.

Working within a highly skilled engineering environment, you’ll lead and deliver complex technical projects, engage with stakeholders across NZDF and industry, and act as a design lead on engineering development work. From robotics and automation through to advanced manufacturing, control systems, and rapid prototyping, this role offers the opportunity to solve challenging problems and deliver innovative engineering solutions that support New Zealand’s Defence capabilities.

Key responsibilities include:

• Lead the design, development, prototyping, testing and implementation of innovative mechatronics engineering solutions.
• Support future Army capability through engineering projects involving land equipment, vehicle systems, communications technology, and emerging technologies.
• Develop 3D CAD models, technical drawings, simulations, and prototype systems using modern engineering tools and methodologies.
• Conduct research into leading edge technologies and identify opportunities to improve operational capability and engineering outcomes.
• Provide technical advice and collaborate with military personnel, project teams, industry partners, and external stakeholders.

The salary for this role ranges from $104,214 -$115,131, inclusive of a 4% superannuation contribution. Appointments within this range are based on skills and experience.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

We’re looking for an innovative and forward-thinking engineer who enjoys solving complex technical challenges and turning ideas into practical solutions. You’ll bring a strong mechatronics background and be comfortable working across mechanical, electrical, electronic, software, and control system disciplines. Your ability to combine technical expertise with creativity and systems thinking will be key to success in this role.

You will have at least 5 years of post-qualification engineering experience and a track record of delivering engineering projects from concept through to implementation. Experience in prototype development, advanced manufacturing, automation, robotics, systems integration, or defence related technologies will be highly regarded. You’ll also be a strong communicator who can engage effectively with both technical and no-technical stakeholders.

What you’ll bring:

• A Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronics) or equivalent engineering qualification.
• 5 years’ experience in engineering design, development, testing, and implementation of complex systems.
• Strong CAD, modelling, analytical, and problem solving skills, with experience developing innovative engineering solutions.
• Proven experience in prototyping, systems integration, automation, robotics, embedded systems, or advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Proven ability to work as part of a multi-faceted team or as an individual depending on relevant task requirements.

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

Safeguard your loved ones with a fully funded life cover of up to $300,000 and critical illness protection. Other benefits include discounted additional insurances, free will services and savings schemes for the Defence community. Get expert financial guidance and mortgage broker services. Find all our benefits and more on the Force 4 Families website.

NZDF champions diversity and inclusivity, valuing every member and fuelling their success. We embrace uniqueness, understanding that diverse teams drive creativity, innovation, and excellence. With an open door to all – irrespective of gender, ethnicity, ability, age, or family dynamics – NZDF offers an empowering work environment. Join us in shaping a brighter future, where everyone thrives.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Applications close on Tuesday 8 September 2026.

Use the links on this page where you’ll be directed to the Defence Careers website.

Please Note:

• All applications must be made online, via the Defence Careers website. Each listing contains the Position Description.
• Your cover letter will be a key part of our selection process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key activities outlined in the Advert and Position Description.
• Applicants will be required to undergo a pre-employment drug-screening test prior to any offer of employment being made.

NZDF Employees/Members – please apply internally via the HR Toolkit; this will ensure that you are visible as an internal candidate.

NZDF Contractors – please apply via the Defence Careers website.

NZDF Reserves – please apply via the Defence Careers website if you cannot access the HR Toolkit.

Please Note:

To be eligible for the required level of government security clearance with the NZ Defence Force, you need to meet certain citizenship and residency criteria. Here’s what you need to know:

Higher Level Security Clearance

• You must be a New Zealand citizen or you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa.
• At minimum, you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa, and you must be a citizen of and have lived in Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, United States of America or New Zealand continuously for the last ten (10) years.
• You must have a ten (10) year background history that can be verified and assessed appropriately by the NZ Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) to determine if you are suitable for a security clearance at this level.

If you do not meet the minimum criteria, unfortunately, your application will not be accepted. We do welcome your application at a time when you will meet the requirements.