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

• Salary Band SM1: $121,635 - $150,255
• New Zealand Defence Force
• Auckland

The Defence Technology Agency (DTA) is a branch established to provide applied research, exploratory development, and policy studies on science, technology and related areas with application to military technology, force development and operations. The Human Systems (HS) group has a vacancy as its Director to lead, manage and oversee the strategic and tactical operation of the HS Group, involving a number of major research programmes, and to ensure that NZDF and the Services are provided with appropriate scientific and technological human systems and performance support. The role is a critical enabler and delivery agent of the NZDF Science and Technology Strategic Plan.

The HS Group provides a set of technical capabilities designed to meet the existing and future needs of land, sea and air operations. The project portfolio currently includes high priority work to examine ways to enhance the effectiveness and safety of personnel working within the NZDF through analysis of and research into workplace design, physical and cognitive performance, personnel protection, workforce optimisation, training simulation, leadership and decision making, and human system integration.

The successful applicant will be an experienced manager with demonstrated extensive scientific or technical knowledge, experience and expertise. The workload is varied, technically challenging and interesting. There are opportunities to work collaboratively with scientists and researchers in New Zealand and overseas.

Candidates should preferably hold a postgraduate degree (Honours degree or greater) in an appropriate applied science. Good technical communications skills are required, as is experience in operating with a senior management group and other peers, internally and externally, nationally and internationally. Knowledge of military systems is likely to be helpful.

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

Total starting remuneration will depend on qualifications and experience. There are opportunities for promotion on merit and further training can be supported.

To view the job description and to apply online, please visit the NZDF website www.nzdf.mil.nz/careers, alternatively contact Leanne McCune on 09 4455 901 or email leanne.mccune@nzdf.mil.nz, quoting Vacancy No. DTA-10-08

Applications close Monday, 20 July 2009.

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.