Intelligence Analyst

Mo te tunga | About the role

Our Strategic Intelligence Branch is a unique and inclusive blend of civilian and military intelligence analysts.

We deliver insights, forecasts and warnings related to global activities and trends that affect New Zealand Defence Force and Ministry of Defence activities.

In this role you will become a Defence Intelligence expert; you will focus on a topic related to international defence and security.

Senior officials and Ministers will rely on your intelligence assessments to enhance and inform their decision-making.

You will be trusted to provide verbal briefs on a regular basis, drawing on information from a range of sources, translating findings into accessible, valuable information.

This role is unique because as you develop your critical thinking and grow within NZDF, you can move through the promotion framework.

So, you may start as an Analyst but have the opportunity to progress into a Senior and Lead Analyst as you develop.

There will also be training opportunities both on- and off-shore, as well as the opportunity to travel overseas for conferences, familiarisation visits, short-term postings and secondment.

Please note : As this role requires a high level of security clearance, you will need to be / have been a NZ, UK, Australian, Canadian or USA citizen for a minimum of 10 years to be eligible for this role.

The successful candidate is required to undergo a psychological assessment as part of the pre-employment security vetting process.

Nga pukenga me nga wheako | Skills and Experience

You will have a strong interest in international affairs and defence matters with demonstrated research and critical thinking skills.

You will be organised and adaptable to thrive in a high-tempo work environment.

You will also have :

• Effective communication skills – both written and verbal.
• Analytical and research skills.
• The ability to establish and maintain effective relationships and networks.
• Integrity in handling sensitive information.
• A relevant postgraduate qualification.

Please review the PD for more information.

Our current staff members have a wide range of academic backgrounds, including history, physics, psychology and strategic studies.

If your background differs from what we've outlined but you believe you can contribute to the role, we encourage you to apply.

Experience as an intelligence or policy analyst in a strategic environment is highly desirable but not required.

PLEASE NOTE : Shortlisted candidates will need to be available to attend an assessment to be held in person in Wellington on Wednesday 22 October 2025.

If successful at the assessment stage, interviews are expected to take place at the end of October.

The salary being offered will depend of your skills and experiences as they relate to the role.

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 Friday 26 September 2025.

Use the links on this page where you'll be directed to the Defence Careers website.

Please Note :

Each listing contains the Position Description and a Contact Us option for any queries or technical issues.

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.

NZDF is currently undertaking a Workforce Savings Programme (WSP) to realise efficiencies and required enduring savings, in which NZDF has proposed some changes to the organisational structure of its civilian workforce.

At this point in time this position is not proposed to be affected.

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

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.