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

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Mō te tūnga | About the role

The Defence Technology Accelerator (Def TA) is a newly established NZDF function that connects Defence with industry, academia and government partners to identify, assess and advance innovative technologies with military application.

Def TA helps accelerate the pathway from innovation to operational advantage, providing insights that inform future capability decisions while supporting the growth of New Zealand's defence innovation ecosystem. 

In this role you will be the conduit between our expert Defence Security and Def TA. There are two streams of accountability for this role. You will provide expert advice to senior leaders, internal and external stakeholders, 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 NZDF requirements.

You will also provide direct support to Def TA with the delivery of security surveys, risk assessments, and reports that may be required. You will lead, facilitate, and coordinate the delivery of Defence security services in support of the Def TA, and deliver Industry Security-specific services to the Def TA's partner company's.

Key responsibilities include:

• Lead the development, implementation and review of security policy across Def TA.
• Provide high-quality advice to senior leaders on security, governance, risk assessments, reporting 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 security projects from inception through to implementation and evaluation.
• Build strong relationships industry, academia and government partners
• Monitor emerging security risks and trends to inform future policy direction.

The salary for this role will be approximately $110,000 inclusive of a 4% superannuation contribution. This role is based in Wellington out of Defence House.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

To be successful in this role, you will bring:

• Proven expertise in protective security, with strong knowledge of Personnel, Physical and Information Security frameworks.
• Experience applying the NZPSR, NZISM and/or NZDF security policies in complex operational environments.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills, with the ability to build trusted partnerships across government, industry and internal teams.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to translate complex security concepts into clear, practical advice for diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated experience providing authoritative advice and recommendations to senior leaders and decision-makers.
• Strong risk management capability, including the assessment, reporting, escalation and mitigation of security risks and issues.
• Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, balance competing demands and deliver results to tight deadlines.
• Experience producing high-quality reports, briefings and written communications.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience in a security-related role is essential; experience working with NZ private industry and/or within NZDF is highly desirable.

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 12 October 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.