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Posted 16 July, 2026

Technical Operative at New Zealand Government

New Zealand Government
Wellington, WGN, NZ Full Time
Reference: 1bed0166c7125ff9

Job Description

Overview Apply for Technical Operative at New Zealand Government in Wellington City, N, NZ. This Full time on site position offers great opportunities for career growth. Join our diverse and talented people and work at the heart of national security, providing essential intelligence to the NZ government to protect New Zealand and its people. Why join the NZSIS? The New Zealand Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) is the nation's domestic and foreign security intelligence agency. Our mission is to protect New Zealand and its people from emerging threats through the collection, analysis and reporting of highvalue intelligence. As a Technical Operative you will apply cutting-edge tradecraft and technology to support nationalsecurity investigations that directly contribute to the safety and security of all New Zealanders. We encourage applications from people of all genders, cultural backgrounds, ages, abilities and life experiences. NZSIS recognises that diverse perspectives strengthen our ability to protect the nation. If you do not meet every single attribute but have transferable skills or experience, a strong willingness to learn and a commitment to our mission, you are still encouraged to apply. Responsibilities Designing, building, testing and troubleshooting bespoke electronic, mechanical, RF or control system solutions. Deploying technical equipment that enables intelligence collection and analysis. Making rapid, sound decisions under pressure, often with incomplete information. Contributing to continuous improvement initiatives and sharing knowledge across the organisation. Required Attributes Excellent teamwork, collaboration and communication skills; while retaining the ability to operate independently when required. A strong aptitude for learning technical concepts on the job. A demonstrated knowledge of IT, networking, electronics, and/or RF technologies. Creative problem-solving ability demonstrated through work, study or hobby projects. Curious about emerging technologies and their potential impact on NZ. High integrity and a willingness to obtain and retain a TopSecret (TSS) security clearance. Preferred Experience A trade qualification or working background in electrical, electronic, fabrication or mechanical engineering. A current Electrician practising licence issued by the New Zealand Electrical Workers Registration Board. Recent graduates candidates who have completed a tertiary qualification in Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science or a closely related discipline and can demonstrate relevant project work. Experience in the design, build and maintenance of bespoke computer networks, hardware platforms and software development. Hands‑on experience designing, prototyping or repairing electronic or mechanical systems. Experience with field-deployable equipment, instrumentation or sensor platforms. Embedded systems design including hardware selection, firmware development and integration. Industrial controls expertise design, configuration and programming of automation hardware and software. Selection Process Key points in our selection process: If shortlisted and progressed through the recruitment process, you may be invited to complete the following activities: Cognitive and psychometric testing; Assessment Centre; An interview. The successful candidate will be required to commit to and successfully complete a six‑week pass/fail training course in Wellington in July 2027 and upon successful completion will become employed as a permanent Technical Operative. Additional Requirements The ability to work unsociable hours and travel on short notice; a supportive home environment is essential. Successful completion of operational training currently scheduled for July 2027 is mandatory for continued employment. Benefits Medical Insurance and Vision Care packages. Enhanced employer contributions to your Kiwisaver. Generous Leave benefits, including additional paid days off and enhanced sick and parental leave. Childcare allowance for your preschoolers. Opportunities for personal and professional growth and career pathways across the intelligence community. Eligibility Have been a New Zealand Citizen for at least 10 years OR hold a current NZ Residency Class Visa and ideally have been a citizen of the UK, USA, Canada or Australia for at least 10 years. Be eligible to obtain a Top Secret Special (TSS) security clearance. #J-18808-Ljbffr

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