Principal Protective Security Advisor

Help shape the future of Education

We work to shape an education system that delivers equitable and excellent outcomes.

Our organisation is made up of talented and committed people around Aotearoa, from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. While we work in different groups and on different things, we all strive every day to make the biggest difference we can for our students in our education system.

About this role | Mō tēnei tūranga

We’re looking for a confident and collaborative Principal Advisor Security to help shape how protective security with a particular focus on physical and personnel security is understood and implemented across a diverse, nationwide organisation. This is not a traditional technical security role — it’s about embedding a culture of security, educating frontline staff, and ensuring practices are integrated into day-to-day operations.

You’ll support locations across New Zealand, responding to incidents, conducting physical security assessments, and reviewing existing policies and practice in line with Protective Security Requirements. But your real impact will come from your ability to engage the business — including those delivering frontline services in challenging environments — and help them understand and adopt better security behaviours.

You’ll work closely with the Chief Security Officer and other security colleagues as well as the wider agency networks to contribute to forums and seek out external insights.

This is a great opportunity to apply your skills in a role that blends strategic thinking, hands-on delivery, and meaningful engagement with diverse frontline teams.

Salary range: $119,171 - $144,560 per annum + KiwiSaver. The successful candidate will be appointed at a salary which reflects individual skills and experience.

For more details about the role, you can view the Job Description here.

About you | Mōhou ake

We’re looking for someone who combines knowledge with strong people skills and the ability to influence and educate others. Ideally you will have;

• Experience in physical and/or personnel security, emergency management, ideally within a large, complex organisation
• Knowledge of Protective Security Requirements across government
• Confident communication skills, able to engage and educate non-technical audiences
• Proven ability to build relationships, influence behaviours, and drive cultural change
• Sound judgement, practical mindset, and strong situational awareness
• Willingness to travel to meet business requirements for security assessments and training to be delivered
• Eligibility to obtain, or be currently holding, a ‘Secret’ level NZ national security clearance
• Ambitious and career-focused attitude, and looking to make a meaningful impact
• The ability to adhere to the Public Service Standards of Integrity and Conduct
  
  

About our group and team | Mātau rōpū ake

Te Pou Rangatōpū | Corporate group is responsible for delivering essential Ministry-wide statutory and corporate functions. We enable the organisation to operate effectively and help fulfil the statutory and reporting obligations of Te Tāhuhu.

The Security function within Te Pou Rangatōpū | Corporate is based in the People, Sustainability and Place division which combines people services to attract, develop and retain talent, with the sustainability, security, property and facilities, and travel and fleet functions leading the organisation’s approach to acting more sustainably in creating a safe work environment that enables employees to do their best work. 

Are you ready to make a difference? | Kua rite koe mō tēnei mahi?
If this opportunity interests you, please submit your Cover Letter and CV by using the ‘Apply' button below. In your Cover Letter we'd like to know about you, your values, your whakapapa or anything you'd like to share about your cultural identity. We're keen to know your motivations, strengths, transferable skills, and the diverse perspectives you will bring to the role.

For further information, please contact Lynley Sinclair at Lynley.Sinclair@education.govt.nz

Applications close midnight on Wednesday, 08 July 2026

We want our people to feel valued for their unique qualities and have a sense of belonging. If you require assistance or adjustments to fully participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.