Intelligence Analyst

Role overview

The Ministry for Primary Industries is hiring an Intelligence Analyst to join its Intelligence & Targeting team in Christchurch. This permanent, full-time role is centered on producing intelligence that helps identify biosecurity risk and non-compliance across import channels. Your insights will support tactical, operational, and strategic decisions within Biosecurity New Zealand, contributing directly to the protection of New Zealand’s biosecurity interests.

The position sits in a regulatory intelligence setting, which differs from conventional intelligence environments. You will gather and assess information, work with a range of stakeholders, and help deliver quality intelligence outputs that support frontline decision makers. The team places strong emphasis on wellbeing, curiosity, collaboration, and ongoing professional growth.

What you will do

• Monitor domestic and international developments that may affect New Zealand’s biosecurity
• Use intelligence methods and tools to turn complex information into practical insights
• Work with stakeholders to set priorities for intelligence products
• Maintain high standards of professionalism and actively seek feedback on output quality and turnaround time
• Develop effective working relationships across the ministry, government, and industry
• Handle sensitive material with discretion and integrity
• Communicate clearly in writing and contribute effectively in a team environment
• Bring curiosity, sound judgment, and a reflective approach to your work
• Build your understanding of biosecurity within a regulatory context
• Complete, or be willing to complete, the New Zealand Diploma in Intelligence Analysis during work time

About you

You are a thoughtful and inquisitive problem solver who enjoys collaborating with others to support important operational decisions. You are interested in applying intelligence tradecraft in a regulatory environment and are keen to expand your knowledge of biosecurity risks, import pathways, and the people involved in managing them.

You communicate well, value coaching and learning, and adapt comfortably in a setting that changes and evolves. You may already work in another government agency and be looking for a broader range of experience. Above all, you bring professionalism, analytical strength, and a genuine interest in protecting New Zealand.

Team environment

This role sits within the Intelligence, Targeting and Evaluation Group, which focuses on identifying and responding to risks across import pathways. The wider team is spread across Auckland, Christchurch, and Dunedin and includes around 30 people, such as intelligence analysts, target evaluators, and target developers.

The group works collaboratively across locations using virtual tools to stay connected. New team members receive mentoring, site visits, and learning opportunities to strengthen their biosecurity knowledge. The team values curiosity, integrity, rigorous analysis, and mutual wellbeing.

About the organisation

MPI works with New Zealand’s food and fibre sector to support the country’s role as a leading sustainable producer of high-value food and primary products.

Benefits

• Extra leave days provided by MPI
• Annual wellness payment
• Twice-yearly paid eye testing plus support toward the cost of corrective lenses and frames

Salary and employment details

This is a permanent, full-time position based in Christchurch (Burnside). The salary sits within General Salary Range E, from NZD 87,008 to NZD 101,621, depending on experience and skill level.

Security and eligibility

This position requires a New Zealand SECRET national security clearance. To be eligible, you must be a New Zealand citizen or hold a New Zealand residence-class visa, including permanent residence. You must also have at least ten years of verifiable background history that can be assessed by the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service to determine suitability for SECRET or TOP SECRET clearance, as applicable.

If you do not meet these minimum requirements, your application cannot be considered. You must also have the right to work in New Zealand or be eligible to obtain it.

Application guidance

When applying, include a cover letter that explains who you are, what matters to you, why you want this role, and the strengths, values, attributes, and perspectives you would bring. Relevant experience gained outside the formal workforce is also welcome.

The closing date for applications is 11:59pm on Sunday, 12 July. For role-related questions, contact Shane.Gooch@mpi.govt.nz.

Values and inclusion

MPI is committed to working in partnership under Te Tiriti o Waitangi, including close engagement with iwi, hapū, whānau, and hāpori. The organisation welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and identities and aims to be an inclusive workplace for everyone.