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Posted 29 August, 2026

Senior Engineer - Software

New Zealand Government
Wellington, WGN, NZ Full Time
Reference: da4b4393616c2c13

Job Description

\n Mō te tūnā | About the role\n

We’re establishing a new Cyber Operations Application Team (COAT) that will help protect and strengthen critical NZDF digital capabilities.

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As a Senior Engineer - Software, you’ll contribute to the development, support and maintenance of software systems and applications that support NZDF cyber operations.

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This is an opportunity to join a newly established team and work alongside cyber specialists, engineers and technology professionals supporting secure and resilient digital services across NZDF.

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You will be responsible for designing, developing and maintaining secure software solutions, helping to ensure security principles are embedded throughout the software development lifecycle.

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Working as part of a collaborative team, you’ll provide senior technical expertise, support continuous improvement and contribute to the delivery of resilient cyber capabilities.

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This will include:

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  • Developing and maintaining secure software systems and applications
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  • Embedding secure coding practices throughout the software development lifecycle
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  • Supporting cyber security tools and software-based security solutions
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  • Participating in threat modelling, code reviews and vulnerability remediation
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  • Contributing to automation, testing and DevSecOps practices
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  • Mentoring team members and sharing technical expertise
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Note: this role will require travel to support operational and business requirements. The successful candidate may also be required to participate in an on-call roster in the future as operational requirements evolve.

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Applications may 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.

Ngą pūkenga me ē ū me… | Skills and Experience\n

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced software engineer to contribute to work that supports NZDF cyber operations and digital capability.

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You will be a collaborative technical professional with experience developing secure software solutions in complex environments.

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You will enjoy solving challenging technical problems, working across multidisciplinary teams and applying secure development practices to support critical systems.

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You will bring:

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  • Significant experience in software engineering and application development
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  • Knowledge of secure software development and secure coding practices
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  • Experience with programming and scripting languages such as Python, Java, C#, JavaScript or similar
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  • Experience with automation, CI/CD pipelines and DevSecOps practices
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  • Understanding of threat modelling and software security principles
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  • Experience working with cloud, containerised or modern application environments
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  • Strong problem-solving and analytical capability
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  • Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
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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.

Nŋu te rourou | What’s in it for you\n

Your skills and dedication deserve recognition, and NZDF delivers with competitive pay matched to your experience.

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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.

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Other benefits include:

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  • discounted additional insurances, free will services and savings schemes for the Defence community
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  • Get expert financial guidance and mortgage broker services
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  • Find all our benefits and more on the Force 4 Families website
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NZDF champions diversity and inclusivity, valuing every member and fuelling their success. We embrace uniqueness, understanding that diverse teams drive creativity, innovation, and excellence.

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With an open door to all - irrespective of gender, ethnicity, ability, age, or family dynamics - NZDF offers a flexible, empowering work environment.

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Join us in shaping a brighter future, where everyone thrives.

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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\n

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 ten (10) years.

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You must have a ten (10) 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.

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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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