Principal Geospatial Specialist

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Mō te tūnga | About the role

You will provide strategic direction for the development and management of Defence Estate's asset management information system. You will provide specialist expertise, serving as the team and technical lead in driving the development and implementation of geographical information system projects and technologies that will elevate the decision making capabilities of the NZDF.

You will:

• Create custom solutions that will ensure that the GIS system is tailor-fit to meet the requirements and needs of the Defence Estate.
• Oversee the management of the GIS system and related spatial information, ensuring efficient and effective processes are in place.
• Perform complex geospatial analysis and mapping for management decision-making purposes, providing insights to inform high-level decisions.
• Mentor and support GIS team members and GIS system users, helping to foster a collaborative and productive work environment.

This role must be based in Wellington CBD. Once you have undergone training and are up to speed, there is the option of working from home up to two days a week. Occasional domestic travel is required.

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

You will have 7 years practical experience as a GIS Analyst with expertise in managing geographical information and utilising imagery software suites. In particular, you will have experience creating custom GIS solutions to solve problems and minimise risks.

Ideally, you will also have:

• Strong interpersonal skills, a customer-focused approach, and the ability to work collaboratively.
• The ability to coach and mentor more junior members of the team.
• Technical skills operating ArcGIS Online, and experience with CAD and integration of GIS with SAP.
• Proficiency in Arcade, HTML, SQL scripting and Python, with practical experience in system administration and the management of server environments.
• Excellent project management skills, problem solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Well-developed written and oral communication skills including the ability to liaise with a wide and diverse target audience.
• Understanding of asset management principles as they relate to data capture and reporting, as well as experience in developing training packages and provision of computer-based operator training.
•  A tertiary qualification in Computer Science or Geographic Information Systems or similar work experience is desired and highly advantageous.
• A Class 1 Full Driver's License is preferred but not essential.

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 8 May 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.