Operations Information Manager

Mō te tūnga | About the role

Based at Headquarters Joint Forces New Zealand (HQJFNZ), Trentham, as the Operations Information Manager you’ll provide Information Management (IM) support to NZDF personnel within HQJFNZ and on operations in New Zealand and overseas.

In this role, you’ll design and deliver information management solutions that support communication and collaboration within our information environment and enable operational success. You’ll provide practical advice, training, and support to personnel on best-practice information and records management, ensuring our information assets are managed effectively and securely. As your knowledge of the operational environment develops, you’ll have opportunities to build your specialist expertise and take on increasingly complex Information Management responsibilities. This includes supporting compliance with NZDF policies and key legislation such as the Public Records Act 2005, Official Information Act 1982 (NZ), and Privacy Act 2020.

Applications may be reviewed upon receipt. It is advised to apply early to avoid disappointment, as this role may close ahead of time due to a high volume of applicants.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

This is a role in a small but dedicated team, where processes and policies continually evolve, and our information management capability is going through a significant uplift. You’ll need to be adaptable, comfortable managing competing priorities and able to respond effectively during periods of high operational tempo, particularly when NZDF responds to disasters. This means there may be times where you’ll need to work outside of regular hours.

You’ll bring:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Practical experience in information management, records management, document management or a related field
• A working knowledge of IM legislation, systems, practices, supported by relevant experience, training or formal qualification.
• Familiarity with collaboration and information management technologies such as Microsoft SharePoint, Teams and Power Automate.
• An understanding of information lifecycle management, including the creation, capture, storage, retention and authorised disposal of information and records.
• The ability to analyse requirements, solve problems and develop practical solutions that meet customer and organisational needs.
• A proactive, solutions-focused mindset with sound judgement and strong attention to detail.
• Adaptability and the ability to manage competing priorities in a complex and changing environment.
• A commitment to learn and develop the specialist IM knowledge required to support NZDF operations.

Experience in a military, emergency management or similar complex operational environment would be advantageous but is not essential.

A relevant qualification, such as the New Zealand Diploma in Records and Information Management (Level 6), or equivalent knowledge gained through practical experience, would also be advantageous.

Role-specific training and development will be provided to help you build the specialist knowledge required for the position.

This role requires occasional domestic travel. You need to have a Class 1 Full Driver’s Licence.

No candidate is expected to meet every desired skill / experience listed. If your background differs from what we’ve outlined but you believe you can contribute to the role, we encourage you to apply.

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

Your skills and dedication deserve recognition, and NZDF delivers with competitive pay matched to your experience. But that's just the beginning – 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 a flexible, empowering work environment. Join us in shaping a brighter future, where everyone thrives.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Applications close on Monday 28 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 and a Contact Us option for any queries or technical issues.
• 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 ten (10) years 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.

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.