Section Leader at NZ Defence Force, Wellington - Wairarapa

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Mō te tūnga | About the role

The Section Leaderoversees the provision of high quality and effective security and protective services during rostered shifts.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing day-to-day operational oversight and support of teams' tasks and duties, including support and training with the operation of the technical security equipment. Ensuring records, logbooks and databases are up to date.
• Providing guidance and frontline leadership to guards on shift.
• Ensuring compliance with standard operating procedures.
• Leading shift handover protocols to provide a secure environment for staff, visitors and others 24/7. 
• Providing support and respond to incidents and health and safety matters.
• Activating on-call/call-back protocols to ensure adequate staffing levels during the shift as required.
• Maintaining an awareness of the building environment and the people working in and/or visiting the building/site.

The salary range for this role is approximately $87,058 to $96,582. Please note that the salary offering is inclusive of 4% KiwiSaver contribution and salary loading (roster) allowance payment. This role also operates on a four days on, four days off roster of day and night shifts. Full time work hours are guaranteed.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

Ready to take the next step in your security career?We're looking for someone with 5–7 years of experience in a security environment and proven leadership skills. If you're an experienced security guard eager to grow into this leadership role, then this could be a great opportunity!

Your ability to build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, stay calm under pressure and uphold security standards will set you up for success.

A good level of fitness is required, as the role involves standing for extended periods and working in all weather conditions. Don't worry—we'll provide sunscreen and wet-weather gear to keep you covered.

What we're looking for:

• Initiative and sound judgment.
• A solid understanding of security systems and technology.
• Excellent communication skills across diverse groups.
• Ability to write clear, concise incident reports and apply standard operating procedures.
• A Class 1 NZ Driver Licence.
• A current First Aid Certificate or ability to obtain one.

Highly Desirable:

• Previous shift leadership experience.
• Knowledge of NZDF and Protective Security Requirements (PSR).
• Strong understanding of operational and protection functions, preferably in the New Zealand Public/State Sector context.
• A National Certificate in Security.

If you're passionate about security, thrive under pressure, and want to lead a team that makes a real difference—apply now and take your career to the next level!

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 Wednesday 16 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.