Scientist/engineer Space Effects/autonomous Systems

Mō te tūnga | About the role
The Defence Technology Agency (DTA) is a group of 65 scientists and engineers who cover a broad range of areas. There is a desire to work collaboratively together on projects, and the agency is moving towards working at greater depth in the areas it is committed to.
Our Aerospace teams conduct research to defeat drones, improve drones, develop space-based capabilities or monitor space activities above Aotearoa.
- Autonomous Systems - to conduct research into both drone defence and drone exploitation, so NZDF can safely and effectively use this technology in defence operations and protect itself against autonomous system threats.
- Space Effects Team Navigation Warfare - to develop expertise in military satellite navigation, harden military systems against GPS jamming and also work in our space operations/space surveillance research programme.
- Space Effects Team Space Operations - to focus on space surveillance, ground station development and experimentation using on-orbit hardware.

You will quickly find yourself working on established projects and will actively participate in the development of hardware and the software components needed to integrate your work with other systems. You will also work closely with the armed forces as we transition the best technology from R&D into military capability.
These are rewarding positions offering opportunities for personal and professional growth through established partnerships with national and international academic institutions, commercial organisations and government agencies.
Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience
You will need a proven academic foundation in software engineering, electronics, and signal processing, radio frequency electronics or closely related disciplines.
We know you won't arrive with a deep expertise in all the areas we are researching. We are therefore looking for graduates with good core technical skills, a practical mindset, a positive attitude and a motivation to contribute the New Zealand's defence and security.
Formal training on aspects of uncrewed/autonomous systems, satellite systems, satellite navigation and defence-related areas will be provided.

**Essential Skills and Experience**:

- Demonstrated skills in software engineering, electronics engineering, signal processing or related fields.
- Demonstrated ability to develop software (Python, C or C++ preferred).
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, and an ability to engage with internal and external clients at all levels.

Knowledge/skills/experience in some of the following areas on entry would be an advantage:

- A relevant post-graduate qualification.
- Electronic Warfare.
- Radio-Frequency engineering.
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning techniques.
- Counter drone technologies and techniques.
- Sensor technologies.
- Field and lab-based experimentation.
- Control system theory relating to vehicle operation.
- Cloud or edge computing technology.
- Containerisation technology (e.g. Docker).
- Collaborative software development and configuration management (e.g. Git).
- Design principles for electronics.
- Basic workshop skills (e.g. drilling, cutting).
- Additive manufacture.

Mō mātou | About Us
DTA is currently seeking graduates to fill five positions across different teams, including the Space Effects team, Cyber and EMW, Human Sciences, and Autonomous Systems. This is an exciting opportunity for a cohort of graduates to join the Defence Technology Agency. Each of the five positions is listed separately and contains the role specific information for each - please check them out.
The DTA is also the primary NZDF agency with responsibility for developing, managing and enhancing all aspects of scientific and technical liaison, coordination and cooperation with external-to-Defence agencies (national and international) and similar agencies within the Defence Forces of other nations. This will include developing, enhancing and maintaining international links with similar specific Defence technology establishments of other nations.
Every hour of every day, 365 days of the year, the New Zealand Defence Force is contributing to the defence, security and well-being of Aotearoa / New Zealand. As a modern, professional military, it is our goal to maintain well trained, equipped and disciplined armed forces that can react to crisis at short notice.
Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you
In return for your expertise, dedication and hard work, NZDF is offering remuneration reflective of your experience, along with:

- Flexible working environment and positive culture.
- 5 weeks annual leave per year.
- Free onsite parking and great nearby amenities including a Gym and pool.
- Fully funded life cover up to $300,000.
- Access to holiday accommodation across NZ.
- Discounts Handbook for selected retail, entertainment and service providers.
- Opportunities for career development.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Appl