Maintenance Technician at NZ Defence Force, Nelson - Marlborough

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Mō te tūnga | About the role

Help train the next generation of Air Force technicians. We are looking for an experienced Aircraft Maintenance professional who thrives in a hands-on environment and enjoys supporting others to develop their technical capability.

As the maintenance technician, you'll carry out a wide range of maintenance activities across TTS Ground Training Aid (GTA) aircraft and Ground Support Equipment (GSE). Your work directly ensures the safety, reliability, and readiness of the aircraft and equipment used daily for technical training.

Responsibilities will include the following:

• Perform Avionics or Mechanical/Structural maintenance on training aircraft.
• Complete scheduled and rectification maintenance across platforms including MU‑2, SH2‑F and Sioux.
• Maintain and service Ground Support Equipment.
• Support instructors by setting up GTA and equipment for training delivery.
• Provide supplementary student supervision when required.
• Uphold high standards of safety, documentation accuracy, and tool control.

Please Note: The formal title for this role within NZDF is Maintenance NCO1

Applications may be reviewed upon receipt. It is advised to apply early to avoid disappointment, as this role may close ahead of time due to a high volume of applicants.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

Along with having a minimum of five years in the aircraft engineering field and current experience with Aircraft or Avionics systems and equipment you will also have the following:

• Current Aircraft or Avionics trade knowledge, hand skills and experience to Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) or equivalent aviation experience.
• Experience with the Microsoft (MS) Office suite of products.
• Experience in the RNZAF's computer maintenance management system SAP would be advantageous.
• Excellent communication and relationship management skills.
• Excellent organisational and time management skills.
• Self-motivation, able to work independently and manage workflow.

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

Your skills and dedication deserve recognition, and NZDF delivers with competitive pay matched to your experience. But that's just the beginning – safeguard your loved ones with a fully funded life cover of up to $300,000 and critical illness protection. Other benefits include discounted additional insurances, free will services and savings schemes for the Defence community. Get expert financial guidance and mortgage broker services. Find all our benefits and more on the Force 4 Families website.

NZDF champions diversity and inclusivity, valuing every member and fuelling their success. We embrace uniqueness, understanding that diverse teams drive creativity, innovation, and excellence. With an open door to all – irrespective of gender, ethnicity, ability, age, or family dynamics – NZDF offers a flexible, empowering work environment. Join us in shaping a brighter future, where everyone thrives.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Applications close on Wednesday 15 April 2026.

Use the links on this page where you'll be directed to the Defence Careers website.

Please Note:

• All applications must be made online, via the Defence Careers website. Each listing contains the Position Description and a Contact Us option for any queries or technical issues.
• Your cover letter will be a key part of our selection process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key activities outlined in the Advert and Position Description.
• Applicants will be required to undergo a pre-employment drug-screening test prior to any offer of employment being made.

NZDF Employees/Members – please apply internally via the HR Toolkit; this will ensure that you are visible as an internal candidate.

NZDF Contractors – please apply via the Defence Careers website.

NZDF Reserves – please apply via the Defence Careers website if you cannot access the HR Toolkit.

Please Note:

To be eligible for the required level of government security clearance with the NZ Defence Force, you need to meet certain citizenship and residency criteria. Here's what you need to know:

Low Level Security Clearance

• You must be a New Zealand citizen or you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa.
• At minimum, you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa, and you must be a citizen of and have lived in Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, United States of America or New Zealand continuously for the last five (5) years.
• You must have a five (5) year background history that can be verified and assessed appropriately by the NZ Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) to determine if you are suitable for a security clearance at this level.

If you do not meet the minimum criteria, unfortunately, your application will not be accepted. We do welcome your application at a time when you will meet the requirements.