Technical Specialist, Security Regulation

• Use your aviation technical expertise and experience to deliver innovative solutions that strengthen aviation safety
• Apply your skills in risk, assurance and regulatory practice to keep New Zealand’s skies safe
• Permanent | Wellington or Auckland based | $98,689 to $120,941pa 

By joining us, you will be part of a team where meaningful work, collaboration and innovation come together to help keep New Zealand’s skies safe and secure.

At the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand, we are constantly evolving to meet the demands of a changing environment and the aviation industry.

As we step confidently into our role as a modern regulator, we are embracing intelligence-led, risk-based approaches that help us make a real difference for our people and the communities we serve, with a strong value-for-money ethos. We’re also committed to enabling aviation participants to support economic growth in New Zealand's aviation sector.

About the role

The Technical Specialist – Security Regulation is a key position where your expertise from working within the aviation industry and/or as a regulatory professional will directly contribute to a safe and secure aviation system. You will regulate and oversee participants with critical aviation security responsibilities — from regulated air cargo agents (RACA’s), domestic and foreign airlines, airports, and air traffic service organisations.

The salary band for this position goes from $98,689 to $120,941. Starting salaries will be based on knowledge, skills and experience the successful candidate brings to the role, and relativities both, within the immediate team and in the broader Authority for the same or similar roles.

What You Will Bring

We are looking for a motivated technical specialist with proven regulatory experience and the confidence to influence at all levels. To succeed, you will need to bring:

• Technical aviation security expertise in one or more specialist areas across the aviation system (e.g. airlines, airports, or air cargo).
• Skilled at leading and supporting regulatory lifecycle activities including certifications, audits, inspections, investigations, interviews, and other critical aviation security regulation functions.
• Sound understanding of legislative and regulatory requirements for aviation security.
• Confident at making evidence-based decisions that may be subject to scrutiny, review, or appeal.
• Proven ability to manage relationships and influence stakeholders both internally and externally, preferably at a national and international level.
• Capable of interpreting and applying laws, regulations, standards, and guidance materials.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to clearly convey complex technical information to diverse audiences.
• Expertise in risk management, audit, and assurance principles.
• Experience with regulatory decision making, including documenting outcomes. This includes assessing and responding to corrective actions that seek to improve and manage risk.

• You will also need to hold a full New Zealand driver licence and be either a NZ or Australian citizen or a NZ permanent resident.

Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance. You can check your eligibility here: http://www.protectivesecurity.govt.nz/eligibility-tool

About Us

Our Values – Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Transparency, and Collaboration – represent the standards of behaviour we uphold and guide how we work at the Authority. We embrace diversity and are committed to providing an inclusive environment where our people feel respected, safe, and valued for their unique contributions. We recognise that our people drive our success. 

Ready to join us? Apply online by completing the application form and uploading your CV and cover letter. Your cover letter is an important part of the process — use it to show us how your skills and experience match what we’re looking for.

We want to ensure accessibility needs are well supported, so the recruitment process is fair and equitable for all. Therefore, please let us know if there is any support, we can provide to ensure the recruitment process is fully accessible to you.

For more information on the role please view the position description or contact the Recruitment team at recruitment@caa.govt.nz

Applications close: 12 October 2025