Team Leader Research and Entitlements at NZ Defence Force, Wellington - Wairarapa

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Mō te tūnga | About the role

Lead a dedicated team responsible for researching military service records, assessing entitlements, and supporting the recognition of service through medals and historical records. This is a people-focused leadership role where you'll coach and develop staff, manage team performance and workflow, and ensure the delivery of high-quality services in a complex and rewarding environment.

Key responsibilities include:

• Lead and mentor a team to deliver high-quality outcomes
• Manage workflow, priorities and service delivery across the team
• Provide guidance on complex enquiries and entitlement decisions
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders across NZDF
• Monitor performance, reporting and continuous improvement activities
• Ensure compliance with privacy, information and policy requirements

The starting salary for this role is between $83,507 - $92,111, inclusive of a 4% superannuation contribution. Appointments within this range are based on skills and experience.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

We're looking for someone who is an exceptional people leader first and foremost. You don't need to be a subject matter expert in military history, records research or medal entitlements, as these can be learned on the job. Instead, we're seeking someone with strong leadership skills, sound judgement, and the ability to lead a team through complex and high-volume work.

What you'll bring:

• Minimum 5+ years' experience leading a successful team
• A relevant tertiary qualification or equivalent leadership experience
• Proven coaching, mentoring and people development skills
• Strong organisational and workload management skills
• Sound judgment and confident decision making
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Experience managing workflow, reporting and service delivery
• The ability to interpret and apply legislation, policies or procedures

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

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 23 November 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.
• 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:

Low 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 five (5) years.
• You must have a five (5) 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.