Senior Engineer - Software

Mō te tūnga | About the role We're establishing a new Cyber Operations Application Team (COAT) that will help protect and strengthen critical NZDF digital capabilities. As a Senior Engineer - Software, you'll contribute to the development, support and maintenance of software systems and applications that support NZDF cyber operations. This is an opportunity to join a newly established team and work alongside cyber specialists, engineers and technology professionals supporting secure and resilient digital services across NZDF. You will be responsible for designing, developing and maintaining secure software solutions, helping to ensure security principles are embedded throughout the software development lifecycle. Working as part of a collaborative team, you'll provide senior technical expertise, support continuous improvement and contribute to the delivery of resilient cyber capabilities. This will include: * Developing and maintaining secure software systems and applications * Embedding secure coding practices throughout the software development lifecycle * Supporting cyber security tools and software-based security solutions * Participating in threat modelling, code reviews and vulnerability remediation * Contributing to automation, testing and DevSecOps practices * Mentoring team members and sharing technical expertise Please note that this role will require travel to support operational and business requirements. The successful candidate may also be required to participate in an on-call roster in the future as operational requirements evolve. Applications may 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 This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced software engineer to contribute to work that supports NZDF cyber operations and digital capability. You will be a collaborative technical professional with experience developing secure software solutions in complex environments. You will enjoy solving challenging technical problems, working across multidisciplinary teams and applying secure development practices to support critical systems. You will bring: * Significant experience in software engineering and application development * Knowledge of secure software development and secure coding practices * Experience with programming and scripting languages such as Python, Java, C#, JavaScript or similar * Experience with automation, CI/CD pipelines and DevSecOps practices * Understanding of threat modelling and software security principles * Experience working with cloud, containerised or modern application environments * Strong problem-solving and analytical capability * Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills No candidate is expected to meet every desired skill / experience listed. If your background differs from what we've outlined but you believe you can contribute to the role, we encourage you to apply. 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 Wednesday 9 September 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 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. 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.