Communications Security Operations Specialist

Mo te tunga | About the role

Communications Security (COMSEC), through the provision of compliant cryptographic items, should enable responsive and trusted networks for the provision of command, control, communication and interoperability within the NZDF, intergovernmental departments, allies and partners within a secure operating environment.

As the COMSEC Operations Specialist within our Branch, you will use your influencing and relationship management skills to become a trusted subject matter expert and a key point of contact for advice on COMSEC employment, management, and distribution.

You will provide the first line response to COMSEC incidents, triaging and developing the immediate course of action, to mitigate affect to the live environment and maintain operational effectiveness and security.

Please note some keys points regarding this role:

• Due to the nature of this role and system accesses, there is no option to work remotely.
• You must be able and willing to travel within New Zealand and overseas if required.
• Commit to working a 1 in 3 on-call roster; you will be well compensated for this.
• 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.

You will not be eligible to start in this role until you have obtained the required clearance for this role, this may take more than six months so please factor that into your decision when applying.

These points will be explained more if you are successful to the next stages of recruitment.

Applications will be reviewed upon receipt. It is advised to apply early to avoid disappointment, as this role may close ahead of time due to a high volume of applicants.

Nga pukenga me nga wheako | Skills and Experience

You don't necessarily need to be a COMSEC expert to be considered for this role. You will have equivalent expertise, for instance in IT, or be someone who has been previously responsible for deploying complex technical capability.

To be considered, you will demonstrate a strategic mind set, solid analytical skills, strong relationship management skills and the ability to influence and provide good advice so you can become a trusted partner. You will be comfortable with repetitive tasks and demonstrate a high level of accuracy.

In addition we are looking for you to demonstrate that you have:

• An understanding of COMSEC (or equivalent) including user requirements generation and system specification,
• able to develop and conduct training within your field of expertise,
• knowledge of military communications and COMSEC issues, cryptographic technologies and practices,
• technically competent and able to conduct software upgrades on COMSEC equipment
• an understanding of policy formulation and structure with an emphasis on technical content,
• the ability to analyse technical information, and
• strong communication skills.

No candidate is expected to meet every desired skill / experience listed. If your background differs from what we've outlined but you believe you can contribute to the role, we encourage you to apply.

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 Tuesday 18 February 2025.

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.

NZDF is currently undertaking a Workforce Savings Programme (WSP) to realise efficiencies and required enduring savings, which may require NZDF to propose changes to the organisational structure of its civilian workforce. As we progress through the WSP, we will be communicating with our people about any potential impact on roles and structures. We welcome your application for this important role and want to let you know that if the WSP, and any subsequent proposed change process, is likely to impact on the role you are applying for, we will let you know at the earliest opportunity.

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 for at least the last ten (10) years.
• 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.
• To obtain this level of clearance, you must have a background history of fifteen (15) years 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.