Principal Advisor Capability Security

Mō te tūnga | About the role

You will provide in-depth security advice to New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) capability and infrastructure projects as part of the Security Delivery team within Defence Security. This role ensures that relevant Protective Security Requirements have been considered and incorporated throughout project definition, design and delivery phases, and provides assurance that projects conform to NZDF security policies.

Duties for this role will include:

• Engaging with project teams throughout the lifecycle of each project;
• Advising on Protective Security Requirements, policy, and procedures;
• Reviewing project documentation and technical designs and advising on amendments;
• Raising risks and issues to senior leadership;
• Presenting information and findings to senior leadership as needed;
• Writing user friendly documentation to ensure security policy compliance; and
• Looking for ways to improve business processes.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

You will need exceptional interpersonal skills to build strong and trusted relationships across all levels of the organisation, as well as the ability to inject yourself into different project teams to provide support and ensure that protective security requirements are being fully considered and included. This role requires the ability to think strategically, be proactive and pivot easily with changing priorities and situations, while also providing detailed and technical security advice to multiple projects at different stages and in different locations throughout the country.

You will also need:

• A clear understanding of project management processes and frameworks;
• Effective and professional communication skills, both written and verbal, including ability to review and amend documentation;
• Ability to understand, interpret and apply relevant security policies and procedures;
• Ability to understand flow-on effect of actions and apply sound judgement, initiative and common sense to situations; and
• Exceptional planning and organisational skills with the ability to prioritise workload efficiently.

Technical or engineering experience, particularly in the planning, development, testing or installation of security systems would be highly advantageous.

Please Note: The successful applicant will frequently travel domestically.

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 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.