Senior Customs Officer Grade 1 - Customs Surveillance Unit

Overview

The New Zealand Customs Service, known as Te Mana Ārai o Aotearoa, safeguards the country through expert border control. The Customs Surveillance Unit (CSU) collaborates with domestic and international agencies to provide specialized surveillance capabilities targeting organized crime, illicit drug importation, financial crime, and child exploitation. The unit's close coordination with Customs technical and investigative teams makes it highly effective in disrupting criminal syndicates and securing convictions.

Role Summary

This position offers a distinctive chance for trained surveillance officers to join a high-performing team. You will support investigations related to border offenses through specialized surveillance activities. The role demands working under pressure, adaptability to changing conditions, and a strong understanding of technology. You will follow operational directives and apply sound judgment.

Expect irregular and extended working hours. The role has a national focus, requiring availability for deployments away from home at short notice and for prolonged periods. Discussing this unpredictable schedule with family or support networks is important. Although the position involves high commitment, some flexibility exists around operational needs. The team is Auckland-based, so relocation is necessary if not local.

Candidate Profile

The successful candidate will be an already trained surveillance officer ready to engage immediately. A keen interest in continuing to develop surveillance skills and tradecraft is essential. Strong communication abilities are vital due to interaction with diverse internal and external stakeholders. Competence in interpreting and applying relevant legislation related to serious offenses is required.

Mandatory Requirements

• Completion of the Customs Surveillance Course or an equivalent such as NZ Police, SIS, Military courses, or international equivalents
• Possession of a full, unrestricted New Zealand driver’s license
• Availability for unpredictable hours including outside normal work times, extended shifts, and on-call duties
• Willingness to deploy nationally at short notice
• Ability to pass a surveillance skills assessment
• Passing fitness, drug, and medical testing
• Capability to obtain and maintain Top Secret level security clearance, including organizational clearance

A high-level security clearance application generally requires a 10-year verifiable background check in countries with reliable records. Lack of verifiable history may prevent application progress.

Application Process

Applications must be submitted online, including a detailed motivation for applying, demonstration of relevant surveillance experience, and responses to competency questions. The process requires providing concrete examples and will take dedicated time.

Shortlisted applicants will undergo online psychometric testing as part of the further stages.

Diversity and Inclusion

New Zealand Customs Service values workforce diversity and inclusion and encourages all eligible candidates to apply. The organisation supports equal opportunity employment and flexible work arrangements.

Closing Date

Apply by 5pm on Monday, 24 August 2026.