Senior Digital Forensic and Incident Response Analyst

**Mo te tunga | About the role**

Focused on external and internal threats originating from multiple sources, this role will see you conducting real time analysis and response to escalated security events and alerts. This will involve preparation, detection & analysis, containment, eradication & recovery and post-incident activities.

As a senior analyst, your leadership abilities will see you mentoring team members and share your expertise as well as assuming leadership responsibilities when required.

Once you have undergone training and are up to speed, there is a requirement to go on an on-call roster for which you will be compensated for.

Due to the nature of this role, along with systems access, there are limited options to work remotely.

**Nga pukenga me nga wheako | Skills and Experience**

Your background will clearly demonstrate:

- Minimum 3-5 years of technical experience in Cyber Security with a focus on incident response and forensics (Advanced Threat Detection Tools, IDS/IPS, Network Packet Analysis, Endpoint Protection).
- Exceptional knowledge of network protocols and operating systems (Windows, Unix, Linux, Databases).
- High level of investigation and research skills.
- Practical experience in a Security Operations Centre (SOC) environment.
- Strong communication skills, including the ability to accurately document technical problems in a clear and concise way to a non-technical audience.
- Technical competency across IT infrastructure, networking, IT security and associated risks.
- Experience in incident response, incident handling and digital forensics.
- Knowledge of the NZ Government requirements for security including the NZISM, Protective Security Requirements and GCIO requirements.
- Industry qualifications or related education are an advantage, but not essential.

In addition, you are passionate about cyber security and take pride in contributing to a diverse team of cyber security professionals, whose performance is critical to the success of the NZDF.

**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.

**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 **Sunday 7 December 2025**.

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

Please Note:

- 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.

**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 for **at least** the last ten (10) years.
- 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.
- To obtain this level of clearance, you **must** have a background history of fifteen (15) years 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.