Senior Human Resource Advisor

Mo te tunga | About the role

Our HR Advisory Services (HRAS) provides accurate, responsive, fit for purpose solutions and advice on all people matters aligned to the strategic direction of NZDF. The team provides leadership and support across all facets of human resources, both strategic and operational, and is a key enabler to the success of our leaders.

We are seeking an experienced Senior HR Advisor to join our Trentham based team. Reporting to the HR Manager, you will be joining a professional, cohesive and supportive team, who deliver broad HR services to the NZDF.

You will:

• Be responsible for supporting, coaching and advising NZDF leaders to enable them to make strategic people decisions and manage operational matters as they arise.
• Work collaboratively with the team and the wider People Capability Portfolio to drive innovative solutions that meet the needs of our customers.

There aren't many roles where HR practitioners can make a difference to the country they live in, and in this role, you will be offered that rare opportunity. This position is unique as you will be managing portfolios that have a mix of both military and civilian staff, working with our Commanders and Managers on all people-related matters.

This is a busy and varied role where no two days are the same, and your ability to influence and build trust will help you establish and maintain strong working relationships.

Once you have undergone training and are up to speed, there is the option for flexible working arrangements.

We will be interviewing by end of November with our preferred candidate to start in January 2026.

Nga pukenga me nga wheako | Skills and Experience

For our Senior role, you will need to have 7+ years' experience working in large or complex organisation with multiple customer and stakeholder expectations.

You will bring to this role a strong foundation in generalist HR; comprising of a good practical base of New Zealand employment law, employment relations, remuneration, change management, risk management and general day-to-day HR advice and policy interpretation.

You'll also:

• Be pragmatic, resilient and equipped with exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
• Be very comfortable in your communication skills to engage with a diverse mix of people at all levels and are comfortable influencing without authority.
• Possess a strong service delivery focus and can quickly come to grips with new systems, policies and procedures.

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 Monday 17 November 2025.

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

Please Note:

• All applications must be made online, via the Defence Careers website. Each listing contains the Position Description and a Contact Us option for any queries or technical issues.
• 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.

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.

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 or you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa.
• 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.
• You must have a ten (10) year background history 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.

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.