Cybersecurity Incident Response Engineer

Job Opportunity

The University of Auckland is recruiting a Cybersecurity Incident Response Engineer to join its cybersecurity team and safeguard the University's digital infrastructure. The role centers on leading and managing significant security incidents, ensuring effective detection, response, and recovery within a complex and dynamic technology environment.

Key Duties

• Lead and oversee high-impact security incidents, managing technical analyses and coordinating response efforts.
• Collaborate closely with an external Security Operations Centre to enhance detection and response capabilities.
• Conduct threat assessments and contribute to proactive security monitoring and threat hunting activities.
• Improve incident response workflows, develop playbooks, and implement automation to boost operational efficiency.
• Support security engineering tasks such as system hardening, vulnerability management, and optimizing security tools.
• Mentor team members and foster continuous improvement to elevate team capabilities.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will be an experienced cybersecurity professional with robust hands-on skills in incident response and security operations, excelling in managing major incidents calmly under pressure. Experience with cloud systems and evolving threats is expected. The candidate should be adept at working in developing cybersecurity functions and contribute positively to process improvements. Strong communication skills for engaging both technical and non-technical stakeholders, along with a collaborative team approach, are essential.

Qualifications and Experience

• Proven experience leading and managing significant cybersecurity incident responses.
• Background working in or alongside Security Operations Centre environments.
• Technical expertise in systems, network security, and cloud environments.
• Ability to analyze and investigate security events and threats effectively.
• Excellent communication skills, especially in critical incident scenarios.
• Track record of driving enhancements in processes, tooling, and security capabilities within complex settings.

What the University Offers

The University of Auckland is New Zealand's premier university, dedicated to excellence, diversity, and community service. With over 6,000 academic and professional staff supporting more than 47,000 students, it promotes a culture of inclusion, knowledge advancement, and well-being.

• Competitive salary range of NZD 120,000 to 145,000 per annum (pro-rated for part-time roles).
• Five weeks of annual leave entitlement.
• Discounted public transport for permanent and long-term fixed-term employees.
• Superannuation/KiwiSaver matching contributions up to 6.75%.
• Flexible work arrangements including remote work options and adaptable hours.
• Inclusive parental leave policies.
• Opportunities for career growth and additional benefits like discounted insurance, memberships, and on-site facilities.

Application Details

Applicants should submit a brief cover letter outlining their interest and alignment with the role requirements, along with an updated CV. Applications must be completed online by Sunday, 9 August 2026; email applications are not accepted. For confidential inquiries, contact Neil Gardner, Senior Recruitment Consultant, via email.

Additional Information

Equity Commitment: The University is dedicated to upholding the Treaty of Waitangi commitments and promoting equity for staff and students in an inclusive, safe environment. Additional support services are available for Māori, Pacific peoples, women, LGBTQIATakatāpuiMVPFAFF+, individuals with disabilities, parents, and flexible working arrangements.