Senior/Principal Planner

• Shape national policy on radio spectrum use with high-impact, strategic advice
• Full-time permanent Senior or Principal Spectrum Planning Analyst 
• Wellington-based but we are open to applicants from around the country 
• $110,098 to $160,472 (dependent on role and experience) plus kiwisaver & wellness benefits

Our job is to ensure that New Zealanders can choose and use the best wireless technologies for their needs. At its core, this is about determining who gets access to radio spectrum.  We undertake analysis, monitor technology trends and provide advice on the regulatory regime. We plan for new use of radio spectrum, allowing new services to emerge while seeking to enable existing spectrum users to grow and innovate. From time to time we run large auctions to assign rights to use spectrum.

Our major projects for this year include planning for the use and sharing of 24-30 GHz spectrum by satellites and mobile, the expiry of existing mobile and radio broadcasting spectrum rights and providing spectrum for use by private networks and wireless internet service providers. We will also be undertaking work to prepare for future uses of spectrum and to improve the technical rule sets of our regulatory regime. We have strong connections across government and there is a range of work underway with other agencies on aeronautical systems, maritime systems, emergency services and more.

We work closely with MBIE's Radio Spectrum Management operational teams. You can learn more about the work of radio spectrum management here. 

Salary of $110,098 to $138,028 for a Senior Planning Analyst and $132,417 to $160,472 NZD for a Principal Planning Analyst.

The Senior/Principal Spectrum Planning Analyst position is responsible for developing sound engineering advice on the management of the radio spectrum resource to support effective and efficient use while supporting a higher rate of sustainable economic development. This technical advice will inform policy advice to the Minister or other decision makers, the specific rules and regulations that are set and inputs to international meetings.

The Senior/Principal Spectrum Planning Analyst will be expected to: 

• Provide expert technical radio engineering and radio spectrum management knowledge and analysis to support decision making 
• Develop expertise in multiple radiocommunication services 
• Assist MBIE to ensure the international harmonisation and best practice use of the radio spectrum, including supporting MBIE's international engagements, where needed
• Provide input to the preparation of consultations and the development and implementation of licensing rules 
• Develop and maintain relationships with stakeholders across MBIE's Radio Spectrum Management functions and with relevant personnel in other government agencies, and 
• Develop and maintain relationships, liaise with and influence national and international stakeholders, as required. 

Note that while this role will be domestically focussed for the first few years, in future there may be an element of international travel required as part of this role.

We are looking for someone with proven skills in radio spectrum planning activities, including: 

• Demonstrable technical expertise in radio engineering fundamentals, including radio wave propagation and interference/co-existence analysis and modelling
• Familiarity with radio technologies and standards
• An understanding of the spectrum management environment, regulatory frameworks and planning practices
• Strong teamwork skills, being able to work with others to deliver effective, timely solutions
• Strong written and verbal communications skills

Advantageous skills include: 

• An understanding of New Zealand radio spectrum licensing and/or compliance practices
• Knowledge of international spectrum management institutions and practices
• Knowledge and experience in interference modelling software tools and geographical information systems such as MATLAB, HTZ communications and ARC-GIS

Candidates must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand.

MBIE's goal is to create a resilient and high-performing economy that delivers real and ongoing quality of life for all New Zealanders.

We do this by working with others to create an environment that supports businesses to be more productive and internationally competitive, enables all New Zealanders to participate in the economy through improved job opportunities and by working to ensure quality housing is more affordable.

People are at the heart of our mahi, our way of working is guided by our values which shape our behaviours.

• Mahi Tahi – Better Together
• Māia – Bold and brave
• Pae Kahurangi – Build our Future
• Pono Me Te Tika – Own It

Our aspirations are echoed in our Māori identity – Hīkina Whakatutuki – which broadly means 'lifting to make successful'.

MBIE recognises the partnership founded under Te Tiriti o Waitangi between Māori and the Crown and is committed to giving effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi. We will do this through enduring, meaningful and effective partnerships with iwi, Māori, other Māori groups/organisations and the Crown, as this is critical to enable economic and social development, both for Māori and for wider Aotearoa New Zealand. We are committed to continuing to partner with iwi in order to find new sustainable solutions to address long standing systemic and cross-cutting issues facing Māori and wider Aotearoa New Zealand and we are also committed to identifying opportunities for iwi to lead and creating an enabling environment for iwi to leverage these opportunities.

Click on the links below to view the respective position descriptions for each role:

Senior Spectrum Planner

Principal Spectrum Planner

All applications must be submitted via our online process.  Please indicate in your cover letter whether you would like to be considered for the Senior Planner role, Principal Planner role, or for both positions.

Please email  quoting ref MBIE/18851 if you have any further questions. Responses may take longer over the holiday season.

Shortlisting will take place on Monday, 26 January, with interviews scheduled for Monday, 2 February, and Tuesday, 3 February.

Applications close on Sunday 25th January 2026 at 23:59pm.