Senior Security Adviser

• Providing expert security advise across the full range of disciplines
• Working with a multi-disciplinary team in both security and technology
• Delivering critical advice in a complex world
• Wellington based – 12 months fixed term

An opportunity like no other providing security advice in a critical agency that operates in a range of complex environments!

About the role - Kōrero mō te tūranga

This is a 12-month fixed term role within the security team, created to provide expert persec, physec and infosec advice to technology projects. This is both an advisory role and a problem solving one. You will be working alongside the technology teams providing them advice and support.  The role is focused on ensuring that our policies, practices and standards are being met and compliant, drawing on the experiences of others and a deep knowledge of security and the Protective Security Requirements (PSR). You will work with the wider security team to provide practical fit for purpose advice.

• Lead the security engagement with technology projects
• Deliver expert, practical advice and support on security issues
• Work with others to find pragmatic and secure solutions that support effective business operations
• Lead on complex security issues

For more detail you can view the position description here.

The full salary range for this role is $106,973 to $144,727 total remuneration, inclusive of our 3% KiwiSaver employer contribution. The midpoint is $125,850. We expect to appoint depending on your level of experience. 

Who are we looking for? - Mā‎ wai te mahi nei?

We’d like to hear from you if you are an experienced security professional with the following skills and experience:

• A wide experience base that incorporates physical, personnel and information security
• An ability to find ways to ensure that security policies and practices enhance business effectiveness
• Ability to problem solve in complex environments
• An interest in, or understanding of, technology would be advantageous
• Understanding of The Treaty of Waitangi/Te Tiriti, Te Reo Māori and Māori customs and protocols would be beneficial. 

Please note, this is not a cybersecurity role.

Why MFAT? - Ngā hua o te mahi i te Manatū Aorere

We are committed to a focus on leadership, talent, training and development, and flexible work options consistent with guidance from the Public Service Commission. Check out our benefits page to find out more about why we love working here.

MFAT is Rainbow Tick accredited. We value diversity and are committed to providing an inclusive culture where everyone feels supported, valued, and a sense of belonging. We welcome applications from people from a diverse range of backgrounds.

About us - Mō mātou

Our people represent New Zealand on and offshore, and in doing so make New Zealanders safer and more prosperous. By building connections with and influencing other countries and international institutions, we advance New Zealand’s interests and pursue New Zealand's values. We provide advice to the Government on the implications for New Zealand of what is happening in the world.

To Apply/Interested? - Me pēhea te tuku tono

Apply today with your CV and cover letter.

For any queries you can email recruitment@mfat.govt.nz

To be considered for this position at Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade you must be a NZ citizen for 10 years.

You must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance. Ordinarily, to obtain this level of clearance candidates must have sufficient checkable background in countries where meaningful and reliable checks can be undertaken. Where requisite checks are unable to be made, the candidate application may not be able to be progressed.

Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.

Applications close at midnight on Sunday 7 September 2026.

Please note: This is not a Foreign Policy/diplomatic role. This is a ‘Corporate’ role (known here as a Specialist role) based in central Wellington, NZ. 

While it is not usual for specialist staff to be ‘posted’ outside of NZ, from time to time a specialist role overseas becomes available at one of our embassies, high commissions, missions or consulates. To be considered for one of these positions you would need to apply and be considered via a competitive recruitment process.

If you do have an interest in an MFAT foreign policy/diplomatic career, you would be welcome to apply for this either via our graduate recruitment or mid-level foreign policy recruitment campaigns.