Deployment Services Officer at NZ Defence Force, Manawatu-Whanganui

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Mō te tūnga | About the role

At the New Zealand Defence Force, our people don't serve alone. Behind every deployment is a network of whānau, and communities who carry the load at home.

We are seeking a Deployment Services Officer (DSO) to play a vital role in supporting that network - before, during, and after deployment. Based at Linton Military Camp, working across the country, you'll work alongside military and civilian teams to deliver an integrated wellness approach, supporting our personnel.

You'll be a key connection point between deployed personnel, their families, and NZDF support services - ensuring people feel informed, and supported. This is a role with real human impact.

What you'll be doing:

• Supporting NZDF personnel and their whānau across the full deployment lifecycle - before, during, and after deployment.
• Providing clear information, guidance, and reassurance to families navigating the challenges of deployment.
• Building and maintaining trusted relationships with eligible family members and wider whānau networks.
• Delivering training and presentations, coordinating activities, and leading support initiatives that prepare and assist families.
• Responding to welfare needs with empathy and professionalism, while working closely with NZDF units and community partners and contributing to ongoing service improvements.
• Keep accurate records, passing appropriate information to commanders and maintaining appropriate confidentiality.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

We're looking for someone who brings a strong people focus, sound judgement, and the ability to support others through complex or challenging situations.

What you'll bring:

• Proven ability to build trust with diverse individuals and communities.
• Strong empathy and resilience when supporting people in challenging situations.
• Excellent communication skills, both one-on-one and in group settings.
• Experience in community, education, health, social services, or military environments.
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage competing priorities.
• Discretion and professionalism when handling confidential information.

If you've supported people in meaningful ways - whether through your work, community involvement, or lived experience - 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 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.