Mo te tunga | About the role
Join more than 15,000 New Zealanders working for the NZ Defence Force and directly contribute to the defence, security and wellbeing of Aotearoa New Zealand.
We're looking for a Senior Engineer (PKI Specialist) to join our team within Information Command. This is a unique opportunity to lead and shape the way NZDF designs, delivers, and manages its Public Key Infrastructure and broader identity security capabilities.
In this role, you will play a key part in strengthening our cryptographic and identity foundations, ensuring secure, scalable, and standards-aligned solutions across the organisation. You will work closely with cross functional teams to uplift PKI and ICAM capability, while contributing to long term security strategy.
This will include:
Once you have undergone training and are up to speed, there may be a requirement to go on an on-call roster for which you will be compensated.
Please note: As this role requires a high level of security clearance, you will need to be / have been a NZ, UK, Australian, Canadian or USA citizen for a minimum of 10 years to be eligible for this role.
The successful candidate is required to undergo a psychological assessment as part of the pre-employment security vetting process.
Nga pukenga me nga wheako | Skills and Experience
To be successful in this role, you will be an experienced Senior Engineer with deep expertise in PKI, cryptography, and enterprise identity security. You will be comfortable operating in complex environments and influencing stakeholders across both technical and business domains.
Ideally you will also bring:
Nou 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 pehea te tuku tono | How to Apply
Applications close on Friday 3 July 2026.
Use the links on this page where you'll be directed to the Defence Careers website.
Please Note:
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
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.
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