Planning Officer

Mō te tūnga | About the role

You will be responsible for leading the development of capital projects from inception through the planning and design phase, for buildings and infrastructure across the NZDF estate, culminating in the submission of a Business Case for decision makers to consider.

Conducting systematic analysis of current and future needs, through collaboration with other departments, agencies, and partners, to support the development of solutions that deliver efficient and effective outcomes, will be a focus within this role.

You will also be responsible for the following:

• Facilitating effective and efficient input from all relevant stakeholders in order to lead and manage the development of Estate Delivery projects.
• Developing projects from inception and delivering them into construction in line with best practice, balancing the projects constraints (i.e. cost, time and quality).
• Measuring, and reporting on, the project performance and outcomes.
• Developing Project Business Cases in line with industry best practice and the Better Business Case 5 case model.

This role can be based in either Christchurch or Wellington Central. Regular travel will be part of this role, so remote and flexible working options will be available, once the successful person has had time to settle into the role.

The salary for this role ranges from $104,214 - $115,131, inclusive of a 4% superannuation contribution. Appointments within this range are based on skills and experience.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

As the successful candidate, you will possess exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills in order to produce the most effective input from all associated stakeholders. Ideally you will be skilled at resolving complex issues and finding effective solutions for everyone involved.

The ideal candidate will have the following key skills:

• Familiarity with project management processes, particularly with Business Case and design development.
• An understanding of strategic analysis, planning and problem definition.
• An ability to set and maintain a high standard of quality assurance.
• Ideally, you will have experience with construction or infrastructure planning.

Previous industry-experience in infrastructure, property, consultancy, project management or engineering (civil or environmental) will be beneficial.

Training and certification in Better Business Case methodology and PRINCE2 Project Management processes can be provided to the successful candidate.

Please note: This role will require domestic travel to NZDF Camps and Bases, therefore a Class 1 Full Driver’s Licence is essential.

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

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 pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Applications close on Monday 9 November 2026.

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.
• 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.