Principal Cybersecurity Specialist

Kelburn, Wellington, New Zealand (On-site)

Job Description

• Are you a cybersecurity generalist with experience across multiple domains?
• Do you have an interest in building and implementing the University’s cybersecurity strategy?
• Can you communicate effectively with people across a range of levels, from end-users to managers?

Kōrero mō te tūranga - About the role 

Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington is currently recruiting for a Principal Cybersecurity Specialist to join our Te Tai Matihiko - Digital Solutions team and protect the University on a permanent, full-time basis. 

As Principal Cybersecurity Specialist, you'll be given an opportunity to work across all aspects of our cybersecurity programme, working closely with both Te Tai Matihiko - Digital Solutions and the rest of the University. You'll be helping to both build and implement our cybersecurity strategy.

Key responsibilities:

• Serve as a subject matter expert in specific cybersecurity domains, demonstrating advanced knowledge and skills.
• Lead the design and development of comprehensive cybersecurity architectures aligned with organisational goals.
• Perform incident response activities, ensuring swift and effective resolution of cybersecurity incidents.
• Mentor and train junior members of the cybersecurity team, fostering their professional growth and development.

Ō pūmanawa - About you

You’re a cybersecurity generalist with experience across multiple domains and the ability to quickly bridge any gaps in your knowledge. If you only meet some of these requirements but bring complementary skills, we still want to hear from you.

Key requirements:

• Broad cybersecurity knowledge across multiple domains (e.g. SOC, penetration testing, architecture, GRC, security engineering, networking, or any other areas).
• Excellent communication skills, with demonstrable experience in communicating effectively with people across a range of levels (from end-users, to developers, to managers).
• Comfortable self-managing priorities and tasks as required.

Desirable:

• Experience in large organisations (preferably tertiary or public sector).
• Knowledge of, and experience applying, key frameworks and standards (e.g. ISO 27001, NIST, ASD Essential Eight, NZISM, Privacy Act).
• Relevant industry certifications (e.g. AZ-500, CISSP, OSCP, or any others that demonstrate knowledge in specialist areas).
• Experience representing yourself or an organisation in cybersecurity forums (e.g. conference presentations, user group participation, CVE submissions, bug bounties, or any other similar kinds of engagement with the wider community).

Role Description: Click here to see further information, including salary details.

If this link is not available, click 'apply' to view this on the University careers page.

Close date for vacancy: 23 March 2026.

Contact details for vacancy: If you have any questions regarding this role please get in touch with Stephen Shkardoon, Cybersecurity Manager (stephen.shkardoon@vuw.ac.nz).

How to apply: Please ensure you are applying for this role directly on our careers page and not via email. Candidates must submit supporting documents along with their resume, such as a cover letter. Applicants who do not have residency or citizenship and require a visa to work at the University must clearly indicate their visa status in their application and understand that if they do not have a current, relevant visa, they will need to secure this independently.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we may progress with suitable applicants prior to the application closing date.

Mō Te Herenga Waka - About Our University

Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington is renowned for its high-quality research and exceptional teaching. We attract people from around the world. Our university campus spans Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington - the creative, scientific and political centre of Aotearoa New Zealand - and our students thrive on the connections we have made here.

Explore the many benefits of working at Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington. Find out where you fit in our strategic direction and learn more about our research expertise.

Ētahi kōrero hai āwhina i a koe - Why you should join our team

Ready to make a difference? Join Te Tai Matihiko - Digital Solutions and be at the forefront of innovation! Our team excels in software and hardware support, cutting-edge learning technology, research assistance, project management, and IT security. Embrace a dynamic environment where your skills will thrive and make a real impact. Be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to excellence and continuous growth.

Apply Now

Job Info

• Job Identification 1009011
• Job Category Professional
• Posting Date 03/02/2026, 12:36 AM
• Apply Before 03/23/2026, 10:55 AM
• Job Schedule Full time
• Locations Rankine Brown , Kelburn Parade, Wellington, 6012, NZ (On-site)