Mechatronics Engineer

New Zealand Defence Force; Canterbury; On-site; NZD 104,000 - 115,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully funded life cover

Critical illness protection

Discounted insurances

Free will services

Mortgage guidance

Job summary

New Zealand Defence Force – Trentham, North Island, is seeking an innovative mechatronics engineer to design, prototype, test and implement advanced solutions. You will work across mechanical, electrical, electronic and software disciplines to deliver practical engineering outcomes.

Applicants should have a Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronics) and at least five years’ post-qualification experience, including prototyping, automation or systems integration.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronics) or equivalent.
• 5 years’ post-qualification engineering experience.
• Experience in prototype development, automation, robotics or systems integration.
• Strong CAD, modelling, analytical and problem solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, prototyping, testing and implementation of mechatronics solutions.
• Support Army capability through engineering projects involving land equipment, vehicle systems, communications tech and emerging technologies.
• Develop 3D CAD models, technical drawings, simulations and prototype systems.
• Provide technical advice and collaborate with military personnel, project teams, industry partners and external stakeholders.
• Conduct research into leading edge technologies to improve capability and outcomes.

Skills

CAD modelling

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Systems integration

Automation

Embedded systems

Education

Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronics)

Job description

New Zealand Defence Force – Trentham, North Island

Key responsibilities include:

Lead the design, development, prototyping, testing and implementation of innovative mechatronics engineering solutions.

Support future Army capability through engineering projects involving land equipment, vehicle systems, communications technology, and emerging technologies.

Develop 3D CAD models, technical drawings, simulations, and prototype systems using modern engineering tools and methodologies.

Conduct research into leading edge technologies and identify opportunities to improve operational capability and engineering outcomes.

Provide technical advice and collaborate with military personnel, project teams, industry partners, and external stakeholders.

The salary for this role ranges from $104,214 -$115,131, inclusive of a 4% superannuation contribution. Appointments within this range are based on skills and experience.

We’re looking for an innovative and forward-thinking engineer who enjoys solving complex technical challenges and turning ideas into practical solutions. You’ll bring a strong mechatronics background and be comfortable working across mechanical, electrical, electronic, software, and control system disciplines. Your ability to combine technical expertise with creativity and systems thinking will be key to success in this role.

You will have at least 5 years of post-qualification engineering experience and a track record of delivering engineering projects from concept through to implementation. Experience in prototype development, advanced manufacturing, automation, robotics, systems integration, or defence related technologies will be highly regarded. You’ll also be a strong communicator who can engage effectively with both technical and no-technical stakeholders.

What you’ll bring:

• A Bachelor of Engineering (Mechatronics) or equivalent engineering qualification.
• 5 years’ experience in engineering design, development, testing, and implementation of complex systems.
• Strong CAD, modelling, analytical, and problem solving skills, with experience developing innovative engineering solutions.
• Proven experience in prototyping, systems integration, automation, robotics, embedded systems, or advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Proven ability to work as part of a multi-faceted team or as an individual depending on relevant task requirements.

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

• 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 an empowering work environment. Join us in shaping a brighter future, where everyone thrives.

Applications close on Tuesday 8 September 2026.

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.