Combat Systems Analyst

New Zealand Government; Auckland; On-site; NZD 104,000 - 115,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Life cover

Critical illness protection

Discounted insurances

Free will services

Mortgage guidance

Job summary

New Zealand Defence Force at Devonport Naval Base seeks a Combat System Analyst (Above Water) to enhance the operational effectiveness of Navy combat systems. You will lead research, planning, coordination, and analysis of performance trials, assessing sensors, weapons, and support systems to measure readiness and identify improvement opportunities.

Working with fleet units, training, engineering, and partners, you will provide specialist advice, monitor performance trends, and contribute to

Qualifications

• Experience with naval combat systems requirements and specifications including NZDF fleet requirements.
• Experience with combat system testing, condition monitoring, maintenance and repair is beneficial.
• Knowledge of ship signatures and signature reduction techniques.
• Knowledge of above-water warfare systems, weapons, counter measures and tactical procedures.
• Ability to operate operational evaluation equipment.
• Ability to analyse system condition reports.

Responsibilities

• Lead research, planning, coordination and analysis of operational performance trials for above-water combat systems.
• Monitor performance trends of combat systems and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Contribute to development of warfare policy, doctrine, tactics and procedures.
• Support technical investigations, capability development, weapons firings, and integration of new systems.

Skills

Systems thinking

Analytical thinking

Evidence-based reporting

Naval combat systems

Signature reduction

Evaluation equipment

Data analysis

Communication skills

Policy development

Operational readiness

Job description

Mo te tunga | About the roleBased at Devonport Naval Base, this role sits in the Office of the Captain Fleet Operational Readiness which supports, monitors, and reports on the preparedness of our Navy's Force Elements in accordance with the NZDF Readiness Framework.As the Combat System Analyst (Above Water), you will play a key role in enhancing the operational effectiveness of Navy combat systems. You will lead the research, planning, coordination, and analysis of operational performance trials, assessing the performance of above-water warfare sensors, weapons, support systems, and combat systems to measure readiness and identify opportunities for improvement.Working closely with fleet units, training organisations, engineering authorities, and allied partners, you will provide specialist advice, monitor combat system performance trends, manage vessel signature reduction activities, and contribute to the development of warfare policy, doctrine, tactics, and procedures. You will also support technical investigations, capability development, weapons firings, and the integration of new systems, ensuring our platforms maintain operational advantage and readiness.Once you have undergone training and are up to speed, there is the option for flexible working arrangements.We are looking for a late January 2027 start for this role.The salary for this role ranges from $104,214 to $115,131, inclusive of a 4% superannuation contribution. Appointments within this range are based on skills and experience.Nga pukenga me nga wheako | Skills and ExperienceYou will be a systems and analytical thinker, able to identify desired outcomes, gather and assess evidence, test assumptions, and provide clear, evidence-based reports and recommendations.It would be beneficial if you have knowledge of and experience in:Naval Combat systems requirements and specifications including specific New Zealand Navy fleet requirements,Combat system testing, condition monitoring, maintenance and repair would be very beneficial.Ship signatures and signature reduction techniques.In depth knowledge of all above water warfare systems and weapons.In depth knowledge of above water warfare, counter measures and tactical procedures.Ability to operate operational evaluation equipment.Ability to analyse system condition reports.You will bring strong organisational, analytical, and communication skills, with a keen eye for detail and accurate record keeping. Flexible and proactive, you can solve problems, manage competing priorities, and deliver high-quality work to tight deadlines.Nou te rourou | What's in it for youSafeguard 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 ApplyApplications close on Tuesday 17 November 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.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 ClearanceYou 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.