Senior Analyst, Security Threats and Risks

Why Join Us

At the Civil Aviation Authority, we don’t just keep New Zealand’s skies safe and secure, we help shape the future of aviation.

As the industry evolves, so do we, through innovative technology, new ways of working, and a team of people who are passionate about what they do. 

Now’s the time to get on board. We’re building a forward-thinking, modern CAA, and we need people who want their work to matter. People who thrive on challenges, value collaboration, and want to make a positive impact every day. 

If you're ready to grow your career while helping keep one of New Zealand’s most vital sectors safe and secure, this is your opportunity. 

About the Role

The Senior Analyst, Security Threats and Risks is a senior practitioner who operates with autonomy to deliver high-quality, evidence-based threat and risk assessments that strengthen New Zealand’s civil aviation security system.

In this role you will:

• Work closely with, and in support of, the Principal Analyst.
• Lead discreet workstreams, provide peer review and quality assurance of threat and risk analytical products.
• Translate complex information into actionable advice that informs regulatory decisions, responses and future policy settings.
• Champion best practice tradecraft, contribute to the development and maintenance of the CAA National Threat Baseline Assessment and National Civil Aviation Risk framework.
• Builds trusted relationships across the national security system and with international partners.

This role may require travel and the requirement to stay away from home, and occasional work outside of standard business hours.

The starting salary is between $115,536-$141,751 per annum. Starting salaries are based on the knowledge, skills and experience the successful candidate brings to the role, as well as internal relativities. 

What You’ll Bring

To be successful in this role you will need:

• Extensive experience in security threat and risk management, ideally within a regulatory or national security environment, with a strong capability in strategic‑level analysis appropriate to a senior practitioner role.
• Proven experience working within the national security system, contributing to cross‑agency initiatives and strategic threat assessments, and applying national security processes effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex workstreams or projects, using robust planning and project‑management practices to deliver high‑quality outputs within agreed timeframes.
• Strong relationship‑management and influencing skills, with a proven ability to build credibility and effective partnerships with domestic and international stakeholders.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex ideas clearly and persuasively for diverse audiences, including senior leaders, regulatory decision‑makers and external partners in both written products and briefings.
• To obtain and maintain a National Security Clearance.

The following are highly desirable:

• A relevant tertiary qualification (minimum of a bachelor’s degree) in security studies, political science, international relations, public policy, law, or related field.
• Strong understanding of the New Zealand machinery of government, including policy, regulatory and national security systems.
• Familiarity with the civil aviation legislative and regulatory framework, or the demonstrated ability to quickly acquire this knowledge.

About Us

Our values—Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Transparency, and Collaboration—guide our work and reflect the behaviours we expect from our people. We are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and supportive environment where everyone feels respected, safe, and valued. Our people are central to our success.

To apply, please complete the online application form and submit your CV and Cover Letter. Your cover letter will play a key role in our assessment—please highlight how your experience aligns with the high-profile, public-sector project work this role demands.

We are committed to accessibility and ensuring a fair, equitable recruitment process. Please let us know if you require any support or adjustments.

For more information, please refer to the position description. For any questions, please contract recruitment@caa.govt.nz

Applications close on Sunday 29 March.