Senior Protective Security Risk Advisor

• Strengthen protective security risk management capability across NZTA through expert advice
• Contribute complex security risk assessments across all security domains
• Lead the PSR Assurance Compliance and  Reporting  programme
• Location: Can be based in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington or Christchurch

 

 

Te Whiwhinga mahi | The opportunity
This is an exciting opportunity to be part of the Protective Security Risk team and to contribute to the uplift on NZ Transport Agency | Waka Kotahi (NZTA)'s protective security capability maturity and strengthen the organisation's protective security maturity.

 

We are looking for someone with a strong background protective security risk assessments and an in-depth knowledge of the NZ Protective security Requirements framework to join our team as Senior Protective Security Risk Advisor.

 

As Senior Advisor, you will work across critical corporate, regulatory and transport services and lead our PSR Compliance and reporting programme that with inform strategic and operational decision-making on security measures.

 

This is an opportunity to influence secure-by-design outcomes, guide certification and accreditation activities, and help deliver resilient services that support New Zealanders.

 

You will

• Lead cyber security risk assessments across critical NZTA systems and services
• Provide expert advice using PSR, NZISM, ISO 31000 and industry best practice
• Produce risk evaluation artefacts, including the annual PSR Self-Assessment Report
• Manage National Security Clearances and other Personnel security requirements
• Contribute to presenting security risks and recommendations to governance forums
• Partner with projects, business and technical teams to achieve protective security uplift across the mandatory requirements
• Strengthen protective security control capability across NZTA through leadership and influence.

 

.

You will find out more about the role here Position Description

 

 

Ko koe tēnei | About you

You're an experienced protective security risk practitioner who thrives in collaborative work environments and enjoys tackling complex and diverse security issues. You can conduct detailed risk analysis and recommend effective and efficient security measures to manage risk within the business's risk appetite.

 

You will bring:

• Ability to understand security risk assessments  and recommended security measures
• Experience and familiarity operating with the NZ PSR framework
• Sound understanding of the government’s protective security obligations and the supporting guidance available to organisations
• Ability to apply security requirements under Information, Personnel and Physical security domains and educate key staff on best practice security procedures.
• Ability to articulate protective security risk findings clearly and recommend practical risk treatments
• Excellent communication and time management skills
• Proven ability to work effectively within teams and across business groups
• Enthusiasm for learning and knowledge sharing.

   

Mō mātou |About Us

At NZTA, we deliver transport networks that connect people, places and New Zealand. Te Aukaha | Digital provides the technology and information services that enable better outcomes for our customers, partners and people.

 

Within Digital, Security protects NZTA's people, information and technology through resilient operations, assurance, governance and secure-by-design practices.

 

As part of Protective Security Risk Team,  you will contribute to identifying threats and security risks to NZTA . You will be an influential advisor recommending and influencing the adoption and supporting the implementation of effective security controls and response procedures.

 

Ka whiwhi koe i te aha | What you will get in return

This is an opportunity to, helping strengthen the systems that support transport outcomes for New Zealand.

 

• Work alongside experienced security advisors and partners to identify security threats and risks and influence security improvements through best practice security measures
• Contribute within a culture grounded in having heart, working better together, being brave and delivering meaningful outcomes.

 

In addition, you'll benefit from:

• Flexible working arrangements that support work-life balance
• Five weeks annual leave
• Income Protection and Critical Illness Insurance for permanent employees
• Professional development and career growth opportunities
• A collaborative and inclusive culture committed to delivering meaningful outcomes for New Zealanders.

 

 

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to apply: 

Please click apply to upload your CV and cover letter detailing your suitability for the role.

Rā Katinga | Applications close:

23 November 2026

For further information, email: careers@nzta.govt.nz

To be considered for this position you must have a legal right to live and work in New Zealand.

Waka Kotahi is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). We recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion and are committed to providing a working environment that embraces these values. Please let us know if you need any support or have any access requirements that will help you through the recruitment process.

Please note that we may begin shortlisting as we receive applications. We encourage early applications as we may withdraw the advertising at any time.