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 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 pilot after four to seven years.

The minimum academic requirement is 18 credits at NCEA Level 2 with passes in English and maths, and a science subject, preferably physics. You will then sit a preliminary pilot 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 pilots is that they must have no decreased colour perception.

Those with civilian flying experience are welcome to apply.

Training
Pilots are selected from civilian applicants and from Warfare Officers within the fleet. You will start your Navy career with initial training before Pilot training alongside your Air Force counterparts at Ohakea and Whenuapai. You will gain comprehensive practical experience on fixed wing craft before moving to helicopters then ship borne helicopters.  After significant ship borne aviation experience, pilots will progress to the position of ship’s Flight Commander who is responsible for all aspects of embarked aviation operations.

Career Progression
Once fully qualified on the SH-2G Helicopter, you can expect to advance to the role of 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 seven RNZAF technicians, the Navy Pilot, the TACCO and a helicopter crewman. The level of responsibility on your part is substantial as you will act as Aviation Officer, advising the Captain on all aviation matters. The well being of the Flight Deck crew is also your responsibility and if all that is not enough you will normally act as the ship's Meteorology Officer, plus you'll have the option to stand watches on the bridge if you're qualified.

As an experienced Aviator you may be given the option of becoming a Flight Instructor, which would involve a six month course at RNZAF Ohakea, followed by further courses to become a helicopter instructor.

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.