Seamanship Training Instructor at NZ Defence Force, Auckland

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

Mō te tūnga | About the role

As a Seamanship Training Instructor, you will deliver seamanship and height safety training to RNZN personnel within the Seamanship Training Facility. You'll play a key role in developing operational capability through high-quality instruction, student supervision, and the continuous improvement of training programmes and courseware.

You will deliver training in:

• Cordage, knots, rigging, slinging and lashings
• Anchoring, berthing and mooring operations for naval vessels
• Replenishment at sea and towing operations
• Launching and recovery of ships' boats using cranes and davits
• Maritime health and safety and height safety practices
• Working at height and safety harness use
• Man overboard recovery procedures and emergency response
• Launching of inflatable life rafts and survival equipment
• Deployment of boarding, boat and accommodation ladders

The salary for this role starts from $78,838 with a midpoint of $87,477, inclusive of a 4% superannuation contribution. Appointments within this range are based on skills and experience.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

To be successful in this role, you'll bring experience in seamanship operations, excellent communication skills, and the ability to engage and mentor learners. You will be organised, safety-focused, and committed to delivering high-quality training outcomes.

You'll also possess:

• The ability to adapt training to meet learner needs and achieve outcomes
• Experience delivering training to individuals and groups
• Experience supervising complex seamanship evolutions
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications
• NZDF-recognised instructor qualification
• Height Safety Operator NZQA qualifications (23229, 23232, 19359 and 15757)
• NZQA Assessor qualification (4098)
• Current Class 1 unrestricted driver's licence

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

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 Tuesday 15 September 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.
• 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.