Job Description
Mo te tunga | About the role
Step into a fast-paced, people-centric role where no two days look the same. As the Licence Administrator for the Defence Driver Training School, you'll be the go-to hub keeping training, testing, permits, and critical information moving. You'll juggle competing priorities, manage time-sensitive tasks, and communicate confidently with everyone from instructors to external providers. This is a role for someone who can stay calm under pressure, knows when to say "no" (and when to seek support), and thrives on being the person who keeps everything running smoothly.
You'll join a team that values collaboration, clarity, and initiative, where your ability to multitask, stay organised, and build trusted relationships makes all the difference. If you enjoy a mix of admin, coordination, problem-solving and people interaction, and you love the feeling of getting things "out the door" on time - you'll fit right in.
As the Licence Administrator, you will:
Coordinate daily licence training, testing, theory assessments, and Defence Driving Permits - keeping multiple moving parts aligned.
Prioritise and manage a high-volume workflow, ensuring tight deadlines are met without compromising accuracy.
Act as the single point of accountability for all licensing administration - owning tasks from start to finish.
Maintain central registers, organise materials, update IT sites, assist with website content, and school systems.
Build strong working relationships with instructors, testing officers, external providers, and NZDF personnel.
Applications may be reviewed upon receipt. It is advised to apply early to avoid disappointment, as this role may close ahead of time due to a high volume of applicants.
Nga pukenga me nga wheako | Skills and Experience
We're seeking someone who is proactive, highly organised, level-headed, and the confidence to take initiative and resolve issues early. You'll bring strong communication skills, a collaborative approach, and the ability to stay accurate and focused while managing multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
Your skills will also include:
Clear communication skills, enabling you to confidently engage with staff, instructors, regional suppliers, and other external providers.
Being proactive and organised, with the ability to prioritise tasks, manage competing deadlines, and keep the office workflow running seamlessly.
Strong prioritisation and time management abilities to handle busy workflows and tight deadlines effectively.
Strong relationship-building skills and a professional, approachable manner that helps you work well with a wide range of people.
Solid computer skills, including MS Office suite of products database management and basic desktop publishing.
Previous experience providing administrative support in a busy office or multi-stakeholder environment.
This role may require occasional domestic travel across NZDF's Camps and Bases /Other Reason for Travel.
Nou te rourou | What's in it for you
Your skills and dedication deserve recognition, and NZDF delivers with competitive pay matched to your experience. But that's just the beginning - 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 pehea te tuku tono | How to Apply
Applications close on Tuesday 14 April 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 and a Contact Us option for any queries or technical issues.
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:
Low 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 five (5) years.
You must have a five (5) 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.
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Licence administrator position is now open for candidates interested in the Admin Executive sector. This role in Manitou offers a professional environment and growth potential.
Requirement Snapshot: Candidates should possess basic communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in Admin Executive is a plus.
