Principal Advisor Security Policy at NZ Defence Force, Wellington - Wairarapa

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Mō te tūnga | About the role

Bring your policy expertise to one of New Zealand's most unique policy environments. Lead the development of security policy that helps protect NZDF people, information, assets and capabilities, while supporting New Zealand's defence and national security interests.

Reporting to the Manager Security Policy and Enhancement, you will lead NZDF's Defence Security policy programme and provide expert advice to senior leaders on security policy, governance and regulatory matters. You will shape strategic direction, influence enterprise decision-making, and ensure policy frameworks remain effective, practical and aligned with government requirements.

Key responsibilities include:

• Lead the development, implementation and review of security policy across NZDF.
• Provide high-quality policy advice to senior leaders on security, governance and regulatory matters.
• Translate legislative, regulatory and government requirements into practical policy solutions.
• Develop and maintain policy instruments supporting compliance with the New Zealand Protective Security Requirements (PSR).
• Lead policy projects from inception through to implementation and evaluation.
• Build strong relationships across government, defence, intelligence and security communities.
• Monitor emerging security risks and trends to inform future policy direction.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

We are seeking an experienced policy professional who can provide strategic advice, influence senior decision-makers and deliver high-quality policy outcomes in a complex environment.

To be successful, you will bring:

• Significant experience leading policy development within a large and complex organisation.
• Exceptional policy writing and analytical skills.
• Experience interpreting legislation and regulatory requirements.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and influencing capability.

Experience in security, intelligence, defence, regulatory, risk or compliance environments, along with knowledge of the Protective Security Requirements (PSR), would be advantageous.

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 Monday 14 September 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.