Scientist Engineer - Space Effects

Mo te tunga | About the role

Defence Science & Technology (DST) is a civilian unit within the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF), delivering trusted scientific advice and technical support to the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Based in Devonport, DST brings together a multidisciplinary team tackling challenges from the undersea domain through to space-supporting the NZDF to operate effectively in increasingly complex and contested environments.

You will join our Space Effects team whose responsibility it is to transition space situational awareness technology and research programme into the operational domain, with a focus to support RNZAF's capability development in this area. This research programme currently has the following focus areas:

Precise satellite tracking: Developing electro-optic sensor installations to precisely track orbital objects.

System automation: Developing processes to allow autonomous telescope operation.

Satellite data collection and reduction/analysis: Satellite observation at night as part of development activities.

This is a unique and rewarding role suited to an early to mid‑career engineer or scientist, offering a high level of technical challenge and strong opportunities to work with our NZ-based and international research partners.

Key responsibilities

Develop and deliver research in Space situational awareness

Provide expert technical advice to NZDF and government stakeholders.

Communicate research outcomes through reports, presentations, and briefings.

Collaborate with national and international research partners.

Contribute to future capability development and research direction.

What DST offers

Meaningful, real‑world work supporting New Zealand's national defence.

Access to unique research platforms and operational environments.

Collaboration with specialist research teams and international partners.

A friendly, and supportive workplace with a strong emphasis on professional development.

Nga pukenga me nga wheako | Skills and Experience

You will have a genuine interest in telescopes, satellites, and space surveillance, supported by a minimum of an Honours degree (or equivalent four-year degree including a research project) in a relevant STEM discipline. You will also demonstrate working-level proficiency in one or more of the following areas:

Research experience in astronomy or a related field, particularly in instrumentation, image processing, data reduction, and high-precision measurement techniques; and/or

Experience working with telescopes, astronomical cameras, spectrographs, or other scientific instruments, with a sound understanding of their design, operation, and application; and/or

Experience conducting astrometric and photometric measurements of Earth-orbiting satellites (desirable).

In addition, you will bring

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders.

A positive, proactive attitude and a strong commitment to supporting New Zealand's defence and security objectives.

Desirable Experience

2-3 years of post‑graduate experience in relevant industry or an academic research environment is preferred.

Applications from strong early‑career graduates will also be considered.

Couple of things to note

You will need to be able to travel nationally and internationally (you will need a current passport).

You will need to be comfortable working in military environments (for example at sea for some periods of time).

Current clean drivers licence.

We are looking at a mid/late January 2027 start for this role.

Salary will be based on the skills and experiences you bring to the role, we are expecting this will be around $90,000 to $100,000 inclusive of the 4% superannuation contribution.

If you are excited by the opportunity to use science and engineering to solve real‑world defence challenges, we encourage you to apply.

Nou 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 pehea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Applications close on Wednesday 25 November 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.