Special Operations Systems Integration Engineer

New Zealand Defence Force; Papakura; On-site; NZD 117,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

New Zealand Defence Force seeks a Special Operations Systems Integration Engineer to lead design, integration and testing of advanced C4 systems across soldier platforms and vehicles. You will gather requirements, manage projects, and document technical work in a collaborative Tech Lab environment at Papakura.

Role requires a decade of engineering/ICT experience, expertise in RF/CIS integrations, and strong stakeholder engagement. Occasional travel within NZ and overseas may be required.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years' engineering and/or platform integration experience.
• Extensive hands-on experience integrating RF and Communications Information Systems into mobile platforms.
• Experience leading Agile projects, Scrum teams, and working within Agile/DevOps environments.
• Demonstrated experience with military and commercial SATCOM systems.
• Experience operating in secure environments and handling sensitive information.
• Proven ability to train and mentor technical staff.

Responsibilities

• Design, integration, and testing of networked capability solutions.
• Development and enhancement of C4 systems across operational platforms.
• Requirements gathering and project management for new capability initiatives.
• Preparation and maintenance of technical and programme documentation.
• Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and oversight of external contractors.
• Supporting evaluation, training, and continuous improvement of NZDF networked capabilities.

Skills

Systems engineering

RF systems

C4 networking

Agile / DevOps

Project management

Education

Tertiary qualification in Computer Science or Engineering

Tools

SATCOM systems

Networking equipment

Job description

Special Operations Systems Integration Engineer

This incredibly unique opportunity sits in our 1NZSAS Regt based at Papakura Military Camp, where Unit tasks are focused, often discreet operations of an unorthodox and frequently high-risk nature.

Based in the 1 NZSAS Regiment Tech Lab, a collaborative environment bringing together military, civilian, scientific, and industry expertise to shape the future of NZDF's networked operational capabilities.

You will lead the planning, design, integration, testing, and continuous improvement of advanced Command, Control, Communications and Computing (C4) systems across a range of specialist operational platforms, including soldier systems, Special Operations vehicles, RHIBs, and emerging technologies.

This role combines technical engineering, project management, and stakeholder engagement, with responsibility for gathering requirements, developing new capabilities, managing technical documentation, and ensuring successful delivery of projects. You will work closely with internal Tech Lab teams and external industry partners to deliver innovative and effective solutions that enhance operational effectiveness for New Zealand's Special Operations Forces.

Key areas of responsibility

• Design, integration, and testing of networked capability solutions.
• Development and enhancement of C4 systems across operational platforms.
• Requirements gathering and project management for new capability initiatives.
• Preparation and maintenance of technical and programme documentation.
• Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and oversight of external contractors.
• Supporting the evaluation, training, and continuous improvement of NZDF networked capabilities.

This is an exciting opportunity for a technically skilled engineer who enjoys working at the intersection of technology, innovation, and operational capability development.

The salary for this role ranges from $117,440 to $129,827, inclusive of a 4% superannuation contribution. Appointments within this range are based on skills and experience.

Once you are up to speed in the role, you will be required to go on an on-call roster.This will be explained more at interview time.

You will also be required to travel within New Zealand fairly regularly and potentially overseas (you will need a current passport).

To be successful in this role, you will bring significant experience in communications, networking, systems engineering, and platform integration within complex technical environments.

Key skills and knowledge include

• Strong understanding of Systems Engineering principles and their practical application.
• Proven knowledge of computer systems, network infrastructure, and the installation, testing, and maintenance of communications technologies.
• Experience with RF systems, including coverage planning, interference analysis, optimisation, and performance improvement.
• Sound analytical skills, with the ability to gather, organise, and interpret technical information to support decision-making.
• Understanding of IP networking fundamentals and networked capability solutions.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to translate operational requirements into effective technical solutions.
• Strong planning, forecasting, and project management capabilities.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a small, high-performing team.
• Knowledge of military Command, Control, Communications, and Computing (C4) environments, particularly within the NZ Army or similar organisations, would be advantageous.

Experience and qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years' engineering and/or platform integration experience.
• Extensive hands‑on experience integrating RF and Communications Information Systems (CIS) into mobile platforms.
• Experience leading Agile projects, Scrum teams, and working within Agile/DevOps environments.
• Demonstrated experience with both military and commercial satellite communications (SATCOM) systems.
• Experience operating in secure environments and handling sensitive or classified information.
• Proven ability to train and mentor technical support personnel and end users.
• Experience designing and delivering networked solutions for military organisations is highly desirable.
• Tertiary qualification in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related discipline.

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

Applications close on Wednesday 7 October 2026.

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.

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.