Scientist/Engineer Space Effects - Space Operations at NZ Defence Force, Auckland

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Mō te tūnga | About the role

Joining our Space Effects research team, you will work on the generation, reception and interpretation of electronic signals. Your focus will be ground station systems, specifically satellite uplink/downlinks, antenna control systems and optical space surveillance systems; but you will also apply your skills to satellite hardware and space-based navigation systems where required.

You will quickly find yourself working on active projects as we develop DTA's remote ground station and space observatory. You will actively participate in the development of software components needed to integrate your work with other systems, and also work closely with the armed forces as we transition the best technology from R&D into military capability.

This is a rewarding position offering opportunities for personal and professional growth through established partnerships with national and international academic institutions, commercial organisations and government agencies.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

A proven academic foundation in either signal processing, electronics (especially RF electronics), software development or closely related discipline will be augmented by practical electronics, software or networking skills to interface hardware with online processing resources that can be local or cloud-based.

We know you won't arrive with a deep expertise in the areas we are researching. We are therefore looking for graduates with good core technical skills, a practical mind-set, a positive attitude and a motivation to contribute the New Zealand's defence and security in the space domain.

Formal training on satellite systems, satellite navigation and defence-related areas will be provided.

Essential Skills and Experience: 

• A minimum of an honours degree (four year degree including research project in an appropriate STEM subject) is required for this role. Equivalent experience may be considered.
• A relevant post-graduate qualification would be highly desirable.
• Demonstrated skills in software engineering, electronics engineering, signal processing or related fields.
• Demonstrated ability to develop software (Python, C or C++ preferred).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, and an ability to engage with internal and external clients at all levels.

Knowledge/skills/experience in some of the following areas on entry would be an advantage:

• Electronic Warfare.
• Collaborative software development (e.g. Git).
• Containerisation technology (e.g. Docker).
• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning techniques.
• Field and lab-based experimentation.
• Cloud or edge computing technology.
• Basic workshop skills (e.g. drilling, cutting).
• Additive manufacture.

This is a rewarding position that also offers personal and professional growth through leadership of relevant projects in collaboration with industry and academia, as well as the international partners.

Mō mātou | About Us

Every hour of every day, 365 days of the year, the New Zealand Defence Force is contributing to the defence, security and well-being of Aotearoa / New Zealand. As a modern, professional military, it is our goal to maintain well trained, equipped and disciplined armed forces that can react to crisis at short notice.

The Defence Technology Agency (DTA) delivers research outputs to give NZDF the winning edge on operations. DTA's outputs may be derived from scientific investigation, experimentation, simulation, operations analysis, prototype development and product improvement. DTA is also the lead NZDF unit responsible for scientific and technical liaison, coordination and cooperation with other national agencies and international defence organisations.

We are seeking five graduates to fill positions across our teams. This is an exciting opportunity for a cohort of graduates to join DTA. Each of the five positions is listed separately and contains the role specific information for each – please check them out.

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

NZDF is an inclusive organisation that is open to flexible working arrangements and welcomes applications from people regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, age, or family circumstances.

In return for your expertise, dedication and hard work, NZDF is offering remuneration reflective of your experience, along with:

• Flexible working environment and positive culture.
• 5 weeks annual leave per year.
• Free onsite parking and great nearby amenities including a Gym and pool.
• Fully funded life cover up to $300,000.
• Access to holiday accommodation across NZ.
• Discounts Handbook for selected retail, entertainment and service providers.
• Opportunities for career development.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

To view the Position Description and to Apply, please use the links on this page.

Please note:

• Applicants will be required to undergo a pre-employment drug screening test prior to any offer of employment being made.
• If you are an existing NZDF employee (excluding contractors) you must apply through our Internal Vacancies site, via the HR Toolkit.

Applications close on Wednesday 4 October 2023.

Please note: Applicants must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand (NZ) and be able to obtain and maintain the required level of NZ Government security clearance for the position applied for. The minimum citizenship and residency criteria for security clearances to be granted by the NZ Defence Force are as follows:

Higher level Security Clearance

• most preferably a NZ citizen who has resided continuously in this country for the last 10 years, OR
• is a citizen of, and/or has resided continuously in one or more of the following countries for the last 10 years: either Australia, Canada, NZ, UK or the USA; and has a background history that is verifiable and can be assessed as appropriate by the NZSIS towards a recommendation of suitability for a security clearance at a higher level.

If you do not meet these minimum criteria, we will not be able to accept your application.