Specialist Equipment Manager at NZ Defence Force, Auckland

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Mō te tūnga | About the role

This incredibly unique role is part of a 20+ strong team who respond to strategic tasks or threats, for which either the task or environment precludes the use of conventional operations.

You will be responsible for the management of all specialist climbing, mountaineering, diving, boating and simulation training aid stores held within the Logistics Troop.

This includes:

• Battery management
• Maintenance
• Servicing
• Security
• Demanding
• Issuing
• Stocktaking and receipting
• Providing equipment support to operations and training activities.

The position also involves periodic technical inspection of specialist equipment and keeping key stakeholders up to date with equipment management issues. 

Please note: A good level of physical fitness is required in order to be able to successfully fulfil the role requirements, including the ability to lift moderate weights.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

This role would suit someone just starting out in their workforce journey who has some warehousing experience and a detailed knowledge or understandings of the specialist equipment mentioned above, or maybe you are nearing the end of your working career and want to support NZDF in this incredibly unique opportunity. 

This is a great developmental opportunity, with a salary of around $70,000 per year.

Key skills needed:

• An understanding of equipment management principles and an appreciation of inventory management principles and practices, including good housekeeping principles
• Competent computer literacy skills with particular experience in MS Word and Excel, with good keyboard skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills with an ability to relate to a wide range of people both individually and within groups, with an emphasis on customer service
• Strong written communication skills with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Ability to work effectively in small teams and have a high level of self-motivation
• A high level of integrity and ability to work independently
• A sound understanding of Occupational Health and Safety.

There are a number of qualifications you could bring to the role which would be an advantage: Current forklift licence including D endorsement, SAP IM / PM / PI qualification, Climbing and Mountaineering Height Safety Equipment Inspection Qualification, HSNO Class 2-9 Handler qualification, current Workplace First Aid qualification, Small boating operator's qualification.

No candidate is expected to meet every desired skill / experience listed. If your background differs from what we've outlined but you believe you can contribute to the role, we encourage you to apply.

A full driver licence is needed, as is the ability to participate in an on-call roster (once you are up to speed in the role).

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:

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.