Procurement and Commercial Specialist at NZ Defence Force, Wellington - Wairarapa

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Mō te tūnga | About the role

Defence Commercial Services provides specialist procurement and commercial expertise across NZDF, partnering with stakeholders to deliver value-for-money outcomes, manage risk and ensure compliance with Government procurement requirements.

As a Procurement and Commercial Specialist, you will lead and support end-to-end procurement activities across infrastructure, construction, facilities management and professional services projects. From developing procurement strategies and engaging the market through to contract award and commercial management, you will play a key role in delivering successful project outcomes that support Defence capability.

Working closely with Defence Estate and Infrastructure (DEI), you will help deliver the commercial solutions that support the planning, development and maintenance of NZDF's land, property and infrastructure assets. This is an opportunity to contribute to projects of national significance, working with a wide range of stakeholders to turn strategic requirements into practical and commercially robust outcomes.

This is a varied and rewarding role offering exposure to a diverse portfolio of projects, the opportunity to influence key decisions, and the chance to further develop your procurement and commercial expertise within a supportive and high-performing team.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

We are seeking a motivated and collaborative procurement professional with experience delivering procurement and commercial outcomes in a complex environment. You will have demonstrated success building strong relationships with customers, suppliers and stakeholders, while providing trusted advice and achieving high-quality results.

You will be customer-focused, outcome-driven and comfortable managing multiple priorities while maintaining alignment with strategic and operational objectives. You will enjoy working as part of a team, proactively identifying opportunities, solving problems and continuously improving the way procurement services are delivered.

Your communication skills, both written and verbal, will enable you to engage effectively with a broad range of stakeholders and produce high-quality procurement and commercial documentation. You will bring sound judgement, professionalism, integrity and a pragmatic approach to navigating challenges and delivering outcomes.

You will have practical experience across the end-to-end procurement lifecycle and a sound understanding of the Government Procurement Rules and procurement best practice principles. Experience in construction, infrastructure, property, facilities management or related categories would be highly advantageous. Experience working within the public sector is desirable but not essential.

Occasional travel may be required. A current Class 1 Full Driver Licence is preferred.

If you are a proactive procurement professional who enjoys working across varied and meaningful projects, can build trusted relationships, and is committed to achieving great outcomes for customers and stakeholders, we would welcome your application.

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.