Principal Advisor, Science Partnership

Principal Advisor, Science Partnering at NZ Defence Force, Wellington - Wairarapa

Mō te tūnga | About the role Defence Science & Technology (DST) is the avenue through which NZDF and the Ministry of Defence (MoD) maintains currency on near, future, and emerging science and technology. The purpose of this new role is to grow Defence Science partnering with the New Zealand Science & Technology (S&T) ecosystem, enable our engagement with partner nation organisations, and contribute science leadership across our portfolio of science programmes. There are three focus areas to achieve this purpose:

1. Partner across the S&T ecosystem and identify innovative ways to achieve science-based outcomes for the betterment of NZDF and potentially wider benefits for Aotearoa New Zealand.
2. Enable engagement with our international partners, at an executive level.
3. Lead and own the S&T portfolio management processes within DST.

Building relationships and fostering strong stakeholder connections is one of the most essential skills you need to possess. You will need to collaborate with our Aotearoa New Zealand based partners and our overseas counterparts, focusing on how we can enhance each other effectively, within available resources. Credible experience in science and technology, coupled with business development expertise, will be essential as you explore co-development opportunities and navigate funding opportunities. A minimum of a master's degree in a science, technology or engineering discipline is preferred and a suitable business qualification is highly desirable. Alternative equivalent experience may be considered. Having a Defence or Defence Science background would be advantageous. This role requires both international and domestic travel, so you must have a current passport and the ability to be away from home for some periods of time. 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. 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 Thursday 13 February 2025 . Use the links on this page where you'll be directed to the Defence Careers website. Please Note:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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. NZDF is currently undertaking a Workforce Savings Programme (WSP) to realise efficiencies and required enduring savings, which may require NZDF to propose changes to the organisational structure of its civilian workforce. As we progress through the WSP, we will be communicating with our people about any potential impact on roles and structures. We welcome your application for this important role and want to let you know that if the WSP, and any subsequent proposed change process, is likely to impact on the role you are applying for, we will let you know at the earliest opportunity. 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

1. You must be a New Zealand citizen or you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa.
2. 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.
3. 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr