Science Researcher

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Mō te tūnga | About the role

Our Platform Warfare Division is a team of approximately 30 scientists and engineers who provide science and technical support in the areas of land, maritime and air warfare, autonomous systems and space.

This role is part of the land warfare programme that provides support regarding ballistics and personnel protection and detection and protection from chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosives (CBRNE) threats.

A typical day in this role will see you working with NZDF military personnel, planning and supporting test and evaluation of detection equipment and undertaking laboratory work in support of long term research tasks, generally in collaboration with NZ and international partners. You may also provide specialist support to uniformed personnel, providing guidance to identify and appropriately handle hazardous materials that are outside their regular experience.

You may then plan or deliver a training package or support the technical part of a training exercise, another day you may evaluate acquisition project paperwork for new CBRNE equipment, support evaluation of equipment that is tendered, or read relevant intelligence reports to maintain situational awareness.

This role is based in Trentham Military Camp, due to the nature of this role, there is limited options to work remotely. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt. It is advised to apply early to avoid disappointment, as this role may close ahead of time due to a high volume of applicants.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

The ideal person for this role would have 2 to 10 years' experience working for a science organisation or FVEY partner laboratory.

You will have a good understanding of explosive chemistry and chemical and biological threats.

Key skills needed:

Essential

• Strong interpersonal skills including the development and maintenance of key strategic international relationships.
• Confident communication skills and ability to adapt communication style according to the audience, including explanation of complex scientific principles to a non-scientific audience.
• Good report writing skills and an ability to clearly articulate the findings in writing and orally.
• A pragmatic approach to identifying issues and developing solutions.
• Ability to work independently and a demonstrated drive to further develop knowledge and understanding of basic scientific principles and their application toward defence interests.
• Ability to apply relevant national and international standards to provide advice and develop and perform test protocols across a broad range of application areas.

Desirable

• Excellent chemical, biological and radiological knowledge and appropriate application to defence scenarios. 
• Familiarity with chemical and explosive materials and associated personnel protection measures. An understanding of safety considerations with these materials.
• A broad understanding of biological, radiological materials and associated personnel protection measures. An understanding of safety considerations with these materials.

We are seeking an individual who holds a tertiary level postgraduate qualification in science with a minimum of honours (four years study including a research project) or equivalent experience. The programme of study or experience should provide a broad understanding of chemical and biological sciences.

The role does require the ability to travel both internationally (valid passport needed) and domestically when required. You will also need a full driver's licence and be able to work in remote and arduous environments with military personnel in the air, land and maritime domains.

Please note the remuneration offered will be dependent on skills and experience.

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.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Applications close on Thursday 10 July 2025.

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 and a Contact Us option for any queries or technical issues.
• 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.

NZDF is currently undertaking a Workforce Savings Programme (WSP) to realise efficiencies and required enduring savings, in which NZDF has proposed some changes to the organisational structure of its civilian workforce. At this point in time this position is not proposed to be affected. We welcome your application for this important role and want to let you know that if the WSP 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

• 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.