Test and Automation Engineer
Salary: $104,214 - $120,590 (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 Test and Automation Engineer, you'll help ensure the security, resilience and quality of systems supporting NZDF cyber operations.
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.
You will be responsible for developing automated testing and validation capabilities that support the software development lifecycle, helping to identify issues early, strengthen security assurance and improve delivery outcomes. Working as part of a collaborative team, you'll contribute technical expertise across testing, automation and compliance activities.
This will include:
Designing and maintaining automated test frameworks and validation processes
Integrating testing and security validation into the software development lifecycle
Developing automated scripts to improve testing efficiency and repeatability
Supporting threat modelling, vulnerability assessment and compliance activities
Working with stakeholders to define and execute testing requirements
Maintaining testing documentation and supporting release readiness
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.
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 excellent opportunity for an experienced test and automation professional to contribute to secure and resilient cyber capability within NZDF.
You will be a collaborative technical specialist with experience across testing, automation and quality assurance activities. You will enjoy solving complex problems, improving delivery outcomes, and working with multidisciplinary teams to deliver secure and reliable technology solutions.
You will bring:
Experience with automated testing tools, frameworks and methodologies
Strong understanding of the software development lifecycle and testing practices
Experience developing and maintaining automated test scripts
Knowledge of DevSecOps, CI/CD pipelines and modern delivery practices
Understanding of threat modelling, vulnerability assessment or cyber security principles
Experience working with automation and scripting tools
Strong analytical, troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
Experience working within agile delivery environments 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 Monday 7 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.