Recruitment Advisor at NZ Defence Force, Wellington - Wairarapa

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Mō te tūnga | About the role

This is a 6-month fixed term opportunity through to December, supporting a period of high recruitment activity across NZDF.

Our team is busy, but we all enjoy what we do! We work hard, are accountable, and collaborate closely to deliver high-quality recruitment outcomes. We support a wide range of hiring managers across the country to recruit for unique civilian roles within the NZDF.

We take pride in our mahi, enjoy a good laugh, and thrive on delivering excellent recruitment advice and support. In this role, you'll deepen your recruitment expertise, take ownership of end-to-end processes, and build strong partnerships with hiring managers.

We're looking for the right person to fit our team - someone who brings positive energy, curiosity, and a willingness to get stuck in. The rest will fall into place with guidance, full support from our team, and on-the-job learning.

A typical day could include:

• Providing tailored recruitment and selection advice to managers across varied business areas.
• Writing engaging, fit-for-purpose adverts and interview questions.
• Ensuring recruitment processes align with policy and best practice.
• Coaching and supporting managers on interview techniques and selection tools.
• Advising on assessment methods and selection strategies.

This role is based in Wellington CBD.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

This is a great opportunity for someone already in recruitment who's looking to broaden their experience and gain insight into the New Zealand Defence Force. You'll bring a strong understanding of end-to-end recruitment and be confident building relationships and influencing outcomes.

You'll bring a proactive mindset, strong communication skills, and a desire to contribute to a high-performing team in a fast-paced environment.

You will also bring:

• Solid experience in recruitment coordination or advisory, with a strong understanding of end-to-end processes.
• Exceptional written communication skills, with a high standard of spelling and grammar, and the ability to produce clear, accurate, and professional correspondence.
• Prior experience with platforms such as Salesforce, Seek, Government Jobs and SharePoint.
• Confidence to provide advice to hiring managers, including senior leaders, and influence decision-making.
• Strong planning and organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• A collaborative approach and willingness to share knowledge and support others.
• A solutions-focused mindset, with the ability to interpret policy and apply sound judgement.
• A genuine interest in people, and a drive to deliver great outcomes for candidates and hiring managers.

In return, you'll join a supportive and positive team where you can make a meaningful contribution during this period of high demand, while continuing to build your recruitment experience and capability.

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 4 June 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:

Low 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 five (5) years.
• You must have a five (5) 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.