Technical Operative

Overview 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. 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 high‑value intelligence. As a Technical Operative you will apply cutting‑edge tradecraft and technology to support national‑security investigations that directly contribute to the safety and security of all NewZelanders. 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. The Role You will work as part of a multidisciplinary technical team delivering overt and covert solutions in the field. Responsibilities Design, build, test and troubleshoot bespoke electronic, mechanical, RF or control‑system solutions. Deploy technical equipment that enables intelligence collection and analysis. Make rapid, sound decisions under pressure, often with incomplete information. Contribute to continuous‑improvement initiatives and share knowledge across the organisation. Qualifications Required attributes: excellent teamwork, collaboration and communication skills; the ability to operate independently when required. Strong aptitude for learning technical concepts on the job. Demonstrated knowledge of IT, networking, electronics, and/or RF technologies. Creative problem‑solving ability demonstrated through work, study or hobby projects. Curiosity about emerging technologies and their potential impact on NZ. High integrity and a willingness to obtain and retain a Top‑Secret (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 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. Key Points in Our Selection Process Shortlisting and progression may involve cognitive and psychometric testing. Assessment Centre activities. Interview. Additional Requirements The successful candidate must be able to work unsociable hours, travel on short notice and have a supportive home environment. Successful completion of operational training scheduled for July2027 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 Before you apply, you must: • Be a NewZealand 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, which typically requires a 15‑year checkable background. You can self‑check your eligibility at http://www.protectivesecurity.govt.nz/eligibility-tool. #J-18808-Ljbffr