Policy Advisor / Senior Policy Advisor / Principal Policy Advisor

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Mō te tūnga | About the role

You will join a small, well-established and supportive team, contributing to the development of operational policy for managing the Defence Estate, and providing policy advice to internal and external stakeholders. The Defence Estate consists of 81,000 hectares of land and 5,000 buildings spread across nine military camps and bases, two large training areas and regional locations.

The subject matter is varied and include topics such as the development of design standards, asset management, and the use of the Estate by third parties, energy management, contamination, and climate change.

You will develop new policies and review existing policies. You'll also provide policy advice (both written and oral) to a range of internal and external stakeholders.

The work is challenging and interesting. You will have the opportunity to visit military camps and bases to inform the work you do, and build relationships across all areas of NZDF.

There are two positions available. The level you will be appointed at depends on your experience and skill set. Please indicate in your cover letter which level you are applying for.

The Policy Advisor role is a great development opportunity and you will be well supported by colleagues.

The Senior Policy Advisor works more independently and leads projects.

The Principal Advisor is expected to coach and support junior members of the team. You will work on more strategic, complex projects and support the Director of Estate Policy as required.

The total remuneration (including 4% employer KiwiSaver contribution) for these roles is:

• Policy Advisor: $85,447 - $98,891
• Senior Policy Advisor: $111,619 - $129,442
• Principal Policy Advisor: $120,624 - 139,965

These roles are based in Wellington CBD with the option of some remote working.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

We are looking for someone who can:

• Communicate confidently with people at all levels, both civilian and military, to define policy problems.
• Undertake policy research and analyse what you've learnt to identify potential policy solutions.
• Consult with appropriate stakeholders on potential policy solutions.
• Develop succinct policy documents that meet Defence writing standards.
• Respond appropriately to policy queries.

You will have experience in:

• Developing and maintaining effective relationships across a broad range of stakeholders.
• Listening and being open to new ideas.
• Persuading and influencing.
• Analysing complex information and presenting it in plain English.
• Writing high quality documents with excellent attention to detail.
• Working with others to achieve outcomes.

Experience Level:

• A Policy Advisor will have 1 - 4 years' experience, preferably in property management, resource management or infrastructure; and a relevant tertiary qualification.
• A Senior Policy Advisor will have 5+ years' public sector policy experience, preferably in property management, resource management or infrastructure; and a relevant tertiary qualification.
• A Principal Policy Advisor will have 5+ years' public sector policy experience at a senior level in a large organisation, preferably in asset management, property management, resource management or infrastructure; and a relevant tertiary qualification.

This role requires occasional domestic travel to the military camps and bases so a Class 1 Full Driver's Licence is required.

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 Monday 29 April 2024.

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.