Curator – Textiles

About the Role

The Curator – Textiles will oversee the care, study, documentation, and growth of the National Army Museum's extensive textile collection. Collaborating within a small dedicated team, this position focuses on conserving and telling the histories of New Zealand soldiers through one of the country's largest assemblies of military textiles.

Key Responsibilities

• Responsible for the care, preservation, and development of military textiles in the museum's collection.
• Conduct research, catalogue, and properly document military textile items.
• Ensure collection records and provenance details are accurate and up to date.
• Lead initiatives for preventive care to safeguard the collection.
• Provide information about the collection to researchers, relevant stakeholders, and the general public.

Skills and Experience Required

• Capability to work independently while managing multiple competing tasks.
• Exceptional attention to detail with high accuracy standards.
• Basic skills operating sewing machines considered a plus.
• Experience in cataloguing and maintaining detailed collection records.
• A degree in Museum Studies, History, Heritage, Conservation, or related disciplines.
• Background in museum, heritage, collections management, or conservation environments.
• Possession of a valid full driving licence.

Benefits

Employees receive comprehensive life insurance coverage of up to $300,000 and critical illness protection. Additional advantages include discounted insurance options, free will preparation services, and various savings programs designed for the Defence community. Expert financial counseling and mortgage broker services are also available. The New Zealand Defence Force fosters diversity and inclusion, appreciating the unique backgrounds of all team members and offering a flexible, supportive workplace.

Additional Information

• The salary starts at $74,124 with an average midpoint of $82,239; these figures include a 4% superannuation contribution. Actual pay depends on skills and experience.
• Applicants must apply online and submit a cover letter highlighting relevant experience.
• A pre-employment drug screening is mandatory before an offer is made.
• Internal NZDF applicants should apply via the HR Toolkit to be recognized as internal candidates.
• Applicants must meet specific citizenship and residency requirements to qualify for Low Level Security Clearance, including being a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident with a verifiable five-year background check.
• Applications close on Thursday, 17 September 2026.