Mo te tunga \| About the role
Step into a pivotal technical role where your expertise keeps critical NZDF equipment fleets safe, reliable and mission-ready. As the Technical Advisor for non-platform Surface Maritime Equipment, you'll lead the delivery of technical guidance, fleet planning, maintenance assurance and engineering support across a diverse range of maritime assets. You'll work closely with technicians, engineers, capability teams and industry partners, ensuring equipment meets strict safety, performance and compliance standards throughout its entire lifecycle.
In this role, you'll drive continuous improvement, analyse complex technical data, and help support the integration of new capabilities into service. Whether you're guiding maintenance strategy, solving technical challenges, advising on configuration changes, or contributing to incident investigations, you'll play a key part in strengthening operational readiness and shaping the future of NZDF equipment management.
Nga pukenga me nga wheako \| Skills and Experience
You'll bring a strong technical or engineering background with hands-on experience working with small boats, outboard motors and associated maritime equipment, along with the ability to maintain, assess and advise on the safe operations and performance of maritime assets. Your expertise spans fleet management, preventative maintenance, technical assurance and equipment compliance, supported by confident communication skills that allow you to clearly convey complex technical information to a wide range of stakeholders.
You'll also have:
Experience with maritime equipment quality management, standards, testing and investigations.
Strong knowledge and practical technical/engineering expertise in associated equipment/technology and commodities.
Skilled in analysing complex technical data, identifying root cause and developing effective solutions.
Familiarity with SAP or other ERP systems, along with standard Microsoft business tools.
Relevant trade qualification (National Certificate / Advanced) and at least five years or practical experience in a related trade.
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 Sunday 29 March 2026.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.