Principal Cybersecurity Developer

As a Principal Cybersecurity Developer at DEFEND, you will play a hands-on role in designing, building, and delivering advanced cybersecurity applications that protect our customers’ environments and enhance DEFEND’s security product offerings. You will lead the development of secure, scalable solutions while actively contributing high-quality code, setting technical direction for complex security projects, and providing guidance to the wider Platform Engineering team.

This role thrives in complex environments, translating challenging security needs into practical, high-quality outcomes that deliver real value to DEFEND and our customers. 

Key tasks include:

• Leading the design and implementation of advanced cybersecurity applications and secure systems.
• Writing and reviewing high-quality, secure, and maintainable code.
• Defining and maintaining security and development standards, ensuring all solutions align with industry best practices.
• Translating complex security requirements into technical specifications and working solutions.
• Mentoring developers on secure coding practices and performing code reviews.
• Collaborating with stakeholders and cross-functional teams to design and deliver integrated security solutions.

Requirements

• 10+ years in technology roles, with at least 3+ years in cybersecurity and leading complex security-focused development projects.
• Proven experience designing and implementing secure applications using multiple programming languages (C#, Java, Python, Go).
• Deep knowledge of security vulnerabilities, threat modelling, and mitigation techniques.
• Experience with designing and implementing API integrations between security tools and platforms.
• Practical experience with cloud security across major platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Advanced knowledge of authentication systems, cryptography, and access control mechanisms.
• Experience with security testing tools and methodologies (SAST, DAST, penetration testing).
• Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines incorporating security practices.
• Understanding of regulatory compliance requirements (e.g., PCI DSS, GDPR).
• Strong communication skills with the ability to translate technical requirements into clear outcomes for customers.
• A collaborative mindset with the ability to mentor and guide other developers in secure coding and cybersecurity practices.
• Relevant cybersecurity certifications (e.g., CISSP, CSSLP) are desirable.

Benefits

About DEFEND:

We're a business-centric cybersecurity organisation founded by a team of passionate cybersecurity experts whose mission is to - BUILD A CYBER RESILIENT WORLD. Over the last five years, we've experienced phenomenal growth, working with a wide variety of customers in New Zealand and across 66 countries and winning several industry awards, including Microsoft's 2022 New Zealand Partner of the year!

Each customer we work with is different. Our dedicated approach is to help organisations progress on their cyber resilience journey by delivering outstanding industry services with the highest level of professionalism and care.

We hold ourselves accountable by our core values. Our People First culture sets us apart, and we believe working with DEFEND will be a time in your life you will look back on and truly believe you made a real difference.

What’s great about working for DEFEND?

By joining our innovative and creative team you will have the opportunity to contribute a variety of cybersecurity outcomes, from culture & awareness of cyber resilience, through to offensive & defensive security, developing yourself in technology and digital delivery across multiple sectors.

Work life balance:

• With a national focus throughout New Zealand, our team is made up of skilled individuals at different stages in their careers, therefore we can offer flexibility in base location, as well as embracing remote working
• Flexible working arrangements are available to suit your lifestyle

Career / Professional Development:

We will build on your learning to solve our customers most complex business challenges in the digital age, whilst developing commercial and business skills, along with:

• Continuous learning: You’ll develop the mindset and skills to navigate whatever comes next
• Success as defined by you: We’ll provide the tools and flexibility, so you can make a meaningful impact, your way
• Mentors: You’ll be joining a team of truly passionate and highly skilled individuals who are at the top of their game and who enjoy imparting their knowledge and experience to others
• Opportunity: Progress into other exciting roles across DEFEND

Diversity & Inclusion:

We’re committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. Our goal is to be recognised as an employer of choice for all, irrespective of gender, ethnicity, generation, flexible work status, family circumstances, sexual orientation, or disability. Each addition to our team is an opportunity to grow and diversify our ideas, experiences, and viewpoints.