Advisor Defence Vetting at NZ Defence Force, Wellington - Wairarapa

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Mō te tūnga | About the role

Become a trusted advisor with the team within Defence Security that manages vetting, security clearances, and security-related enquiries. The Defence Vetting team connects the Security function of NZDF with all other areas of the organisation, so this is a key liaison role, and crucial to helping create an excellent customer-focussed environment.

Duties for this role include:

• Providing support and advice regarding NZDF security policies, procedures and systems to internal and external stakeholders.
• Responding to a broad range of email and phone-based enquiries.
• Entering data and vetting records.
• Identifying and analysing risks in order to prioritise, or re-direct, workflows to the appropriate team or person within NZDF.
• Supporting other team members and the wider DSY to action requests when needed.
• Contributing to the development of efficient team systems and processes.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

We are looking for an enthusiastic team-player who can hit the ground running and is happy to go the extra mile, with the ability to adapt to new systems and processes. You will be a data entry and customer service star, with a strong interest in Defence Security.

You will need excellent interpersonal skills in order to relate to a wide range of customers and stakeholders, as well as outstanding verbal and written communication skills. You will be IT savvy, agile, professional, and model the NZDF values of Tū Kaha, Tū Tika, Tū Tira, Tū Maia / Courage, Commitment, Comradeship, and Integrity.

You will also have:

• Previous experience working in a busy call centre or helpdesk within a government agency or large organisation.
• The ability to prioritise workflow and manage simultaneous responsibilities, sometimes under pressure.
• Good attention to detail and accurate data entry.
• The ability to work autonomously and as part of a team, and be able to build rapport with colleagues and key stakeholders.
• An understanding of the New Zealand Government Protective Security Requirements (PSR).
• Experience using MS Office, especially Outlook, in a corporate environment is essential.

Please note: The successful candidate will be required to travel domestically on occasion.

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 Thursday 22 January 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.