Network Engineer

Salary: $97,344 - $112,555 (including 4% superannuation)

Mō te tūnga | About the role

We're establishing a new Cyber Operations Application Team (COAT) that will help protect and strengthen critical NZDF digital capabilities. As a Network Engineer, you'll play a key role in designing, implementing and maintaining secure network solutions that underpin cyber operations and mission critical systems.

This is a rare opportunity to join a brand new team and contribute to work that directly supports NZDF's mission and New Zealand's security. You'll work alongside cyber specialists, engineers and delivery professionals to build resilient, scalable and secure network capabilities in a rapidly evolving digital environment.

You will be responsible for delivering advanced network engineering outcomes across NZDF cyber environments, ensuring network services are secure, reliable and aligned with operational requirements. Working within an Agile product team, you'll help shape solutions that support both current and future cyber capabilities.

Please note that 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.

This will include:

• Designing and configuring secure network architectures.

• Implementing network solutions across secure environments.

• Supporting network resilience, performance and fault resolution.

• Applying network security principles including segmentation and zero trust.

• Collaborating with internal engineers and external partners.

• Contributing to automation and continuous improvement initiatives.

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.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced Network Engineer to help establish a new cyber capability within NZDF while contributing to work of national significance.

You will be a technically capable and collaborative professional with experience designing and supporting secure network environments. You'll thrive in complex settings, enjoy solving challenging technical problems and have a passion for building resilient, high performing network services.

You will bring:

• Experience designing and implementing enterprise network solutions.

• Strong understanding of network security principles and practices.

• Experience with routing, switching and firewall technologies.

• Knowledge of network segmentation and zero trust concepts.

• Experience troubleshooting complex network environments.

• Familiarity with network automation and scripting tools.

• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

• Experience working in complex or highly regulated environments.

• Relevant industry certifications such as CCNP, CCIE or equivalent desirable.

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.

Nōu 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 pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Applications close on Wednesday 2 September 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.