Pre-joining Requirements
- Be a minimum of 17 years of age
- Have completed at least three years of secondary education
- Be a NZ citizen or have permanent residency and have lived in NZ for five years
- Be medically fit for service
- Be of good character – assessed by study of testimonials and a police record check
- Be free of any criminal convictions for the previous two years
- Minimum of 60 credits at level two over five subjects
- Minimum of 18 credits at level two mathematics
- Minimum of 18 credits at level two or above in reading or writing
- Minimum of 18 credits at level two in a science subject (preferably physics)
- Eyesight - no decreased colour perception
- Height restrictions apply
Download the 
Entry Requirements Guide to see what school subjects and credits are required.
You can enter in either the Non-University or Graduate Entry Officer scheme. You can also enter as a Warfare Officer and train as a Bridge Watchkeeper, then change over to TACCO after four to seven years.
The minimum academic requirement is 18 credits at NCEA Level 2 with passes in English and maths, plus a science subject, preferably physics. You will then sit a preliminary TACCO selection test that includes general maths, maths reasoning and instrument comprehension. If you pass you'll face the officer selection process in two stages: first the Aircrew Personnel Selection Board who will look for the right qualities and abilities to operate an aircraft. You will then appear before the Navy’s Junior Officer Selection Board to test your overall leadership potential.
An additional requirement for TACCO’s is that they must have no decreased colour perception.
Training
Observers are selected from civilian applicants or from Warfare Officers already serving within the fleet. After initial training you will join Royal Australian Navy trainees at East Sale, near Melbourne, Australia, where you'll spend 12 months flying the Beech 300 Super King Air. During this period you will learn core navigation skills (both IFR high altitude and VFR low level) and the operational aspects required for maritime aviation operations. You will also learn parachute procedures, survival and first aid.
On completion of your training in Australia you will graduate as a TACCO and then return to join the Naval aviation community at the RNZAF Base in Auckland. Following a Seasprite conversion course (you will spend up to 18 months mastering the aircraft and all its systems) you will posted to a frigate with an experienced Flight Pilot who will be your Flight Commander.
Career Progression
Once qualified, you will serve at sea and ashore in various tactical and strategic roles. As you career progresses, you can expect promotion to Flight Commander. As the Flight Commander onboard a ship, you will be responsible for all aspects of the ship's helicopter operations for extended periods away from New Zealand.
A ship's flight crew usually consists of eight RNZAF technicians, the TACCO, the pilot and a helicopter crewman. The level of responsibility on your part is substantial as you will act as the ship's Aviation Officer, advising the Captain on all aviation matters. The wellbeing of the flight deck crew is also your responsibility and the role of ship's Meteorology Officer, plus you'll have the option to stand watches on the bridge, if you're qualified.
Career Progression Chart
Crew
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Apply Now
To apply for this job contact us on 0800 NZ NAVY, contact a recruitment consultant in your area or download the Application Form now.
More information about the joining process can be found in our How to Join section.