Join an integrated and modern defence organisation with vital civilian roles.

The Defence Technology Agency (DTA), based at Devonport Naval Base, Auckland, is the technological research and development agency of the New Zealand Defence Force and supports the operations of the Royal New Zealand Navy, Royal New Zealand Air Force, New Zealand Army and other government agencies.

This position within the Sensor Systems Group involves working with RF and antenna measurements, and with supporting research with test planning and implementation. The work includes modelling Radio Frequency (RF), propagation and designing and/or analysing the performance of analog and mixed signal hardware systems. This will include software modelling work and assisting in the implementation of a distributed computing system to improve processing times. The work to be done supports multiple projects for the defence forces and core projects at DTA. The person hired will become DTA's main expert for all aspects of RF measurements and antenna work, with strong participation in the work in multiple sections.

This work also involves analysis and measurements in direct support of NZ national and military equipment characterisation or acquisition efforts. The appointee will be part of a small team working on a range of projects associated with electronic defence and communications systems.

You will assist with international collaboration and occasional travel may be required. Your engineering interests must be flexible and adapt to the changing requirement of the NZ Defence Force.

The successful candidate would preferably hold a post-graduate degree (Honours degree or greater) in engineering, the physical sciences, or a related area and should have a number of the following attributes:

* Demonstrated ability to independently conduct development and measurements work

* A strong desire to become an expert on all things RF for the DTA

* Background and interest in antennas and EM propagation from HF through 18GHz

* A background and interest in practical RF measurements techniques

* Ability to work directly with military personnel to assist in problem diagnosis

* Solid background in test design and results reporting

* Experience with EM or mathematical modelling software

* An interest in software modelling and distributed computation

* Excellent communications and report writing skills

* Enthusiasm, flexibility and a willingness to learn.

DTA is a civilian agency of the NZ Defence Force. Applicants must hold New Zealand citizenship. The successful applicant will be required to obtain a security clearance.

The starting salary will depend on qualifications and experience. It will be negotiated at the time of offer. There are opportunities for promotion on merit and further training can be supported.

Salary Range: $40k - $70k (variable depending on experience)

To view the job description and to apply online, please visit NZDF website www.nzdf.mil.nz/careers Alternatively, contact Reception on phone 09 445 5901, or email leanne.mccune@nzdf.mil.nz, quoting Vacancy No. DTA 01-08.

Applications close Monday 11 August 2008.

Please note: Applicants must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand and be able to obtain and maintain the required NZDF security clearance. Because a security clearance is required for the role, applicants must be New Zealand citizens, or have resided in New Zealand for a minimum of 5 years, or have been citizens of the UK, Canada, Australia or the USA for 10 years or more. If you cannot meet these requirements we may not respond to your application.