All roles in the Air Force are critical to delivering effective air operations across the globe – and each role offers you the opportunity to gain industry level skills that will help you become an expert in your field. Whether you have a technical mind or enjoy working with your hands in a trade, a career in the Air Force will mean you are part of a team that is truly world-class. Join us, and help others in times of need with agile air operations across the world. Imagine a job where you are surrounded by the latest technology, working alongside your mates, and you have the chance to make a positive difference to the world around you. This is the unique opportunity that awaits you in the Air Force. The lifestyle is very active, very social and you will have amazing experiences, such as being involved in peacekeeping and humanitarian missions. There are opportunities to travel overseas and you can learn a trade and gain qualifications that will set you up for life. What we do The Royal New Zealand Air Force provides New Zealand with its airborne military capability. To do this, we support a fleet of aircraft – each designed to perform a different role, whether it is airlifting supplies or rescuing someone at sea. To maintain and operate our aircraft we have a tight-knit team of highly trained experts, from Pilots to ground crew. Together we help protect New Zealand’s interests, whilst supporting global peacekeeping and humanitarian missions. What you could do The lifestyle AIR FORCE APPLICATION STAGES Step 1: Choose a password Step 2: Registration: Create your profile. You will need to pass the initial citizenship check to proceed with your application. Step 3: Apply Online: Allow an hour for your online application. You will need to provide copies of the following documents within two weeks of your application: • Birth Certificate • Driver’s license (if you have one) • NZ Passport, NZ Citizenship Certificate, or NZ Residency Sticker • Academic transcripts for all qualifications held (secondary and tertiary) You will also need to complete an Initial Health Check and Police Record Check. Complete the 3-step application process Stage 1 Complete online aptitude tests and sit your entry level fitness testing. Aptitude testing resources and fitness standards are available on our website. Assessments Stage 2 Further fitness testing and preparation for your intake. Induction Day (I-Day) Stage 6 You will need to undergo a medical check-up at your local approved doctor. Full medical check-up Stage 5 If you are successful in your interview, you will either attend a selection board, or join the Candidate pool to await selection. This is your formal job offer subject to full security and medical clearance. Offer of Service Stage 4 Start intake Stage 7 Friendly tips: • Download our Force Fit App and/or attend Force Fit Group Fitness to prepare for A-day. • The 6 week Activator program will help you prepare for your I-Day. • The 8 week Accelerator program will help you prepare for your intake. Visit defencecareers.mil.nz/apply to start your registration. Interview Stage 3 As a Force for New Zealand we stand up for what is right. nzdf.mil.nz To apply, or to find out more information on military life, Air Force roles and intake information, visit the Defence Careers website. defencecareers.mil.nz Call to speak to an advisor: 0800 1 FORCE Find out more APR 2021 Operations Support Roles Aviation Refueller: Become an expert in aviation fuel systems and learn to operate a range of vehicles and equipment. Communication and Information Systems (CIS) Technician: Take up the challenge of mastering some of the world’s most sophisticated communications technology and travel with it to destinations around the world. Force Protection: Travel and adventure are all on the agenda as you secure Air Force elements in New Zealand and across the world. Protecting our personnel and equipment from sabotage and terror threats is a top priority. Fire Fighter: Protect lives and equipment as you lead the fire and rescue services at our airfields and bases. Intelligence Specialist: Test your skills locally and globally as you learn how to produce accurate intelligence from imagery, electronic signals and geospatial information. Logistics Specialist: Make sure we are ready for anything by organising, buying and managing all the equipment an Air Force uses in its operations at home and overseas. Medic: You will be trained in a medical career unlike anything in civilian life, providing aspects of medical care to Air Force personnel both on the ground and in the air. Military Police: You will be a highly trained specialist that will provide police expertise to the Defence Force community and in combat environments. Technical Roles Aircraft Systems Technician: While some fly aircraft, other learn how they work. We will train you to become a technical master in the maintenance of all our aircraft systems. Aeronautical Structures Technician: Show off your precision hand skills and train to become a specialist in repair and manufacture of metal and composite aeronautical structures and componentry. Electronics Technician (Aviation): Travel the world and work on our expanding fleet of aircraft, learning how to troubleshoot and repair complex electronic systems that keep them flying. Ground Support Equipment (GSE) Technician: If you are excited by working with engines, motors and specialist aviation equipment, then this is your opportunity to combine your interests while being an integral part of successful military air operations. Safety and Surface Technician: This key ground crew role will keep you busy and challenged – it will be your responsibility to maintain a variety of equipment, from parachutes and aerial delivery equipment to painting aircraft. Armament Technician: This is your opportunity to understand, handle and maintain all the Air Force’s weapons, including guns, explosives and guided missiles. Training Our priority is to provide you with the skills, knowledge and qualifications you need. As a world-class Air Force, we expect a world-class standard from our team. That is why we will give you the best possible training to help you excel and become an expert in your field. Alongside your training, there will also be further opportunities to extend your skill-set, such as studying while you train, or even training overseas. RECRUIT TRAINING Air Force recruits will complete a 12 week course which will introduce you to the values and ethos of our team, and where you will learn the fundamentals of Air Force life. This is held at RNZAF Base Woodbourne. OFFICER TRAINING All new Air Force Officers will complete a 26 week RNZAF Officer Commissioning Course (ROC) at RNZAF Base Woodbourne. Benefits In addition to a competitive salary that rises as you move up through the ranks and accrue experience, there are many benefits to an Air Force career. From free medical care, to a home base that gives you free access to both sporting and recreational facilities, everything is taken care of – including your family. Air Crew Air Warfare Officer: Aboard the long-range surveillance P-3K2 Orion and C130H Hercules cargo aircraft, you will operate and manage complex hi-tech systems, navigate and provide tactical coordination to ensure mission success. Air Warfare Specialist: On every mission aboard the specialist long-range surveillance P-3K2 Orion, you will be at the heart of its complex systems, sensors and controls. Flight Steward: Travel the world on our Boeing 757 aircraft and train to become an expert in the care of crew, equipment and passengers. Helicopter Loadmaster: As part of the medium utility NH90 helicopter crew you will manage all passengers, cargo and everything to do with the aircraft cabin. You will operate the door guns, the rescue hoist, as well as being the pilot’s eyes for underslung loads, search, and identifying external threats. Parachute Jump Instructor: There is never a dull moment in this adrenalin-packed career. Become an expert in descending safely out of aircraft and train others in the military to do the same. Pilot: You will understand why this is one of the most sought after and challenging careers in the Air Force. Learn on fixed wing training aircraft and then progress to rotary wing and multi- engine aircraft. Contribute to air surveillance, search and rescue, air logistics, training and mission support. Ground Officers Communication and Information Systems (CIS) Officer: Keep us in contact at home and overseas as you train to deploy a range of advanced communication and information systems. A skilled and rewarding role. Engineering Officer: The expert in all aspects of aviation maintenance, this is a role that demands the best problem solving skills and rewards you with a varied and challenging career. Intelligence Officer: Military intelligence is a fascinating area of our operations and you will be at the heart of it, interpreting intelligence data on a wide range of missions at home and overseas. Learning Development Officer: You will support the development of the New Zealand Defence Force and its people as a specialist in military training, education and professional development. Medical Officer: Unlike any medical career in the civilian world and unrivalled in its variety, you will practice all aspects of medical care and train other medics and aircrew. Military Police Officer: Lead our military police in providing police expertise to the Defence Force community and in combat environments. Psychologist: Finding out what makes Air Force personnel tick is just one of the exciting challenges of this specialist role. Develop your psychology skills in the fast moving and exciting military world. Supply Officer: Moving and managing military hardware, supplies and personnel requires quick thinking and the ability to keep a level head. Take the lead in this role that offers travel and challenges. ALL APPLICANTS MUST: • Be a minimum of 17 years of age* • Be medically fit for Service • Be of good character, assessed by a study of your testimonials and a continuous checkable history of 5 years (or 10 depending on role). Refer to our website for more details. • Be a New Zealand citizen or have permanent residency. Other criteria may apply. Refer to our website for further details. To be a competitive applicant and give yourself the best chance of selection, we recommend that you exceed the minimum entry requirements where possible. Details are listed below. Additionally you should consider taking core subjects at secondary school (English, Maths, Science) and increasing your fitness level. The Air Force fitness test standards, and details on how to get Force Fit, are on our website. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS OFFICER ROLE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS ROLES MINIMUM ENTRY REQUIREMENTS TO BE COMPETITIVE Air Warfare Officer NCEA Level 2. Min 18 Credits in each L2 English, Mathematics and a Science subject. Eyesight and height restrictions apply. Colour perception restrictions may apply. NCEA Level 3 Communication and Information Systems Officer NCEA Level 6 Diploma in Electronics and Computer Technology or Telecommunications. Colour perception restrictions may apply. Bachelor of Info Science or BBS/BBC majoring in Computer Science, Info Systems, Info Technology, Computer System Engineering, Internet Systems or Software Engineering Engineering Officer NCEA Level 7 Bachelors Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, Mechatronics or Aeronautical Engineering. Other related specialisations not listed here will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Colour perception restrictions may apply. University entrance Tertiary qualification Intelligence Officer NZ Citizen. Min age 19 years. Bachelors Degree in one of the following: Intelligence, Defence or Security Studies, Politics, International Relations, Law, Economics, Geography, Sociology, Anthropology, Religious Studies, Engineering, Computer Engineering/Science, Data or Information Science, or similar. Colour perception restrictions may apply. Learning Development Officer Hold a degree (preferably in Adult Education or a related field such as human resource development, training and development, vocational training, organisational psychology or education), or hold the equivalent of a Level 5 Diploma in Adult Education and Training, or have practical experience. Colour perception restrictions may apply. Tertiary qualification – Human Resources, Adult Education, Learning and Development Medical Officer A minimum of two years postgraduate experience, completion of the MBChB and registration with the New Zealand Medical Council. Experience in primary health care and/or emergency medicine is also required. Colour perception restrictions may apply. Military Police Officer NCEA Level 1. Min 12 Credits in each English & Mathematics. Class 1 Full Drivers Licence. No traffic convictions. Pilot NCEA Level 2. Min 18 Credits in each L2 English, Mathematics & a Science subject. Eyesight and height restrictions apply. Colour perception restrictions may apply. NCEA Level 3, or a tertiary qualification Psychologist Registered or be eligible for registration with the NZ Psychology Board, i.e. have a minimum of a MA or MSc in Psychology with at least one industrial, organisational or occupational postgraduate level paper (or if your qualifications are from an overseas university, you must provide evidence of your eligibility from the NZ Psychology Board with your application). Colour perception restrictions may apply. Supply Officer A Bachelors Degree in Commerce, Business, Logistics or Supply Chain Management. Colour perception restrictions may apply. AIRMEN AND AIRWOMEN ROLE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS ROLES MINIMUM ENTRY REQUIREMENTS TO BE COMPETITIVE Aeronautical Structures Technician NCEA Level 1. Min 12 Credits in each L1 English, Mathematics & Design Technology or a Science subject. NCEA Level 2 Aircraft Technician NCEA Level 2. Min 12 Credits in each L2 English, Mathematics & a Science subject. NCEA Level 3 Air Warfare Specialist NCEA Level 2. Min 12 Credits in each L2 English, Mathematics & a Science subject. NCEA Level 3 Armament Technician NCEA Level 2. Min 12 Credits in each L2 English, Mathematics & a Science subject. Colour perception restrictions may apply. NCEA Level 3 Aviation Refueller NCEA Level 1. Min 12 Credits in each L1 English & Mathematics. Class 1 Full Drivers Licence. Colour perception restrictions may apply. NCEA Level 2 Class 2 Full Manual Licence preferred Communication and Information Systems Technician NCEA Level 2. Min 12 Credits in each L2 English, Mathematics & a Science subject. Class 1 Full Drivers Licence (consideration will be given to those with a Restricted Licence). Colour perception restrictions may apply. Tertiary Qualification Electronic Technician (Aviation) NCEA Level 2. Min 12 Credits in each L2 English, Mathematics & a Science subject. Colour perception restrictions may apply. NCEA Level 3 Fire Fighter NCEA Level 1. Min 12 Credits in each L1 English & Mathematics. Class 1 or 2 Full Manual Drivers Licence. NCEA Level 2 Class 2 Full Manual Licence preferred Flight Steward NCEA Level 1. Min 12 Credits in each L1 English & Mathematics. NCEA Level 2 Security Forces NCEA Level 1. Min 12 Credits in each L1 English & Mathematics. Class 1 Restricted Drivers Licence. Colour perception restrictions may apply. NCEA Level 3 Ground Support Equipment (GSE) Technician NCEA Level 1. Min 12 Credits in each L1 English, Mathematics & Design Technology or a Science subject. NCEA Level 2 Certificate of Entry to Automotive Trades Helicopter Loadmaster NCEA Level 2. Min 12 Credits in each L2 English, Mathematics & a Science subject. Colour perception restrictions may apply. NCEA Level 3 Intelligence Specialist NCEA Level 2. Min 12 Credits in each L2 English & a Science subject. NZ citizen. A 10 year checkable history (by NZ authorities for security clearances). Colour perception restrictions may apply. NCEA Level 3 Logistics Specialist NCEA Level 1. Min 12 Credits in each L1 English & Mathematics. Class 1 Restricted Manual Drivers Licence. NCEA Level 2 Class 1 Full Manual Licence preferred Medic NCEA Level 2. Min 12 credits in each L2 English, Mathematics & a Science subject. Colour perception restrictions may apply. NCEA Level 3 Military Police NCEA Level 1. Min 12 Credits in each L1 English & Mathematics. Class 1 Full Drivers Licence. No traffic convictions. Safety and Surface Technician NCEA Level 1. Min 12 Credits in each L1 English, Mathematics & Design Technology or a Science subject. NCEA Level 2 Please refer to www.defencecareers.mil.nz/how-do-i-join/am-i-eligible/ to confirm minimum entry requirements prior to applying. For roles requiring a Science subject, NZDF accepts the following: Science, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Earth and Space Science. CAREERS There are two main career pathways in the Air Force – Commissioned Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers (Airmen and Airwomen). Commissioned Officer roles are offered to those with a high level of academic achievement and the potential to lead and manage. There are opportunities for tertiary study for Officer roles either under the Reserve Undergraduate Scheme (which comes with a ‘Return of Service Obligation’ or the Graduate Incentive Study Scheme. Non-Commissioned Officer roles – aircrew, operations support and technical roles – focus on providing the essential core skills and hands-on expertise we need. View our next Air Force intake dates.