Section Leader

New Zealand Defence Force; Canterbury; On-site; NZD 87,000 - 97,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Life cover & critical illness

Discounted insurances

Free will services

Savings schemes

Mortgage guidance

Job summary

New Zealand Defence Force – Trentham, North Island is seeking a Section Leader to oversee the provision of high quality security and protective services during rostered shifts. You will lead guards, ensure compliance with procedures, and support incident response in a 24/7 environment.

The role requires 5–7 years in security, strong leadership, and the ability to build relationships with stakeholders. A Class 1 NZ Driver Licence and First Aid certification are required, with additional NZDF

Qualifications

• Experience leading security teams in a dynamic environment.
• Strong understanding of security systems and procedures.
• Proven ability to write clear incident reports and follow SOPs.
• Current NZ Driver Licence (Class 1) and First Aid certification.
• Knowledge of NZDF and protective security requirements is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day oversight and support of shift tasks.
• Lead guards on shift and ensure SOP compliance.
• Coordinate handovers for 24/7 security cover.
• Respond to incidents and health and safety matters.
• Maintain records, logbooks and security databases.

Skills

Leadership

Security systems

Communication

Incident reports

NZ Driver Licence

First Aid

Education

National Certificate in Security

Tools

Security equipment operation

Job description

New Zealand Defence Force – Trentham, North Island

The Section Leader oversees the provision of high quality and effective security and protective services during rostered shifts.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing day-to-day operational oversight and support of teams’ tasks and duties, including support and training with the operation of the technical security equipment. Ensuring records, logbooks and databases are up to date.
• Providing guidance and frontline leadership to guards on shift.
• Ensuring compliance with standard operating procedures.
• Leading shift handover protocols to provide a secure environment for staff, visitors and others 24/7.
• Providing support and respond to incidents and health and safety matters.
• Activating on-call/call-back protocols to ensure adequate staffing levels during the shift as required.
• Maintaining an awareness of the building environment and the people working in and/or visiting the building/site.

The salary range for this role is approximately $87,058 to $96,582. Please note that the salary offering is inclusive of 4% KiwiSaver contribution and salary loading (roster) allowance payment. This role also operates on a four days on, four days off roster of day and night shifts. Full time work hours are guaranteed.

Ready to take the next step in your security career? We’re looking for someone with 5–7 years of experience in a security environment and proven leadership skills. If you’re an experienced security guard eager to grow into this leadership role, then this could be a great opportunity!

Your ability to build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, stay calm under pressure and uphold security standards will set you up for success.

A good level of fitness is required, as the role involves standing for extended periods and working in all weather conditions. Don’t worry—we’ll provide sunscreen and wet-weather gear to keep you covered.

What we’re looking for:

• Initiative and sound judgment.
• A solid understanding of security systems and technology.
• Excellent communication skills across diverse groups.
• Ability to write clear, concise incident reports and apply standard operating procedures.
• A Class 1 NZ Driver Licence.
• A current First Aid Certificate or ability to obtain one.

Highly Desirable:

• Previous shift leadership experience.
• Knowledge of NZDF and Protective Security Requirements (PSR).
• Strong understanding of operational and protection functions, preferably in the New Zealand Public/State Sector context.
• A National Certificate in Security.

If you’re passionate about security, thrive under pressure, and want to lead a team that makes a real difference,

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.