Mō te tūranga
About the role
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Specialisations
Intelligence, IT & Communications
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Entry type
General entry
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Under training
$68,103
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Location
Devonport
The primary role of a Communications Warfare Specialist is to provide secure, reliable and effective communications using Tactical and Strategic means of communications; incorporating radio, satellite, visual and Information Technology (IT). This is achieved through the utilisation and administration of a variety of specialised networks, within a classified and non-classified environment.
Due to the requirement to maintain continuous communications across the NZDF, Communications Warfare Specialists are required to work rostered shift rotations (Watchkeeping) ashore and at sea.
Communications Warfare Specialists also undergo training in general seamanship tasks, such as slipping and berthing, boat operations, anchoring, underway replenishment, upper deck maintenance and ship’s husbandry.
Requirements
Basics
- Must be 18 years old by the time you graduate from recruit course.
- Eligible to meet national security clearance criteria, as stipulated by the Government's Protective Security Requirements.
Education
- 3 years secondary school.
Note, qualifications may be used to assess trade suitability.
Fitness & Medical
- You must be medically fit for service.
- You must meet the minimum entry fitness standards.
Citizenship
There are strict citizenship and security requirements to gain the required TS security clearance for this trade.
Find out if you’re eligible here.
We offer guidance on entry requirements in our eligibility section. Apply if you're uncertain, as we’ll work through the criteria with you to determine if you can proceed.
“We work with flags, morse code, radios and satellites to communicate with other ships that we are in company with, as well as to shore stations.”
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Job on base
On completion of Trade training, you can expect to be employed at either Defence Communications Station (DEFCOMMSTA), Devonport or a variety of operational platforms, to continue your specialist trade development.
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Job on deployment
At sea you will be responsible for providing secure, reliable and effective communications using tactical and strategic means of communications, incorporating radio, satellite, visual and IT.
While at sea, you will have the opportunity to train as a team member and be involved in a variety of activities, such as Force Protection, Boarding Party and Amphibious Task Force Operations.
Career progression and training
01Basic Training
Basic Training
Upon successful enlistment into the Navy you will be posted to Devonport, Auckland. Here you will do 16 weeks of basic military training to find out if you have what it takes to be in the Navy, and learn various subjects including:
- Teamwork and support
- Naval history and customs
- Drill and parades
- Core mariner skills and weapons training
- First aid and firefighting
- Physical fitness
- Self-discipline
02Job Training
Job Training
On graduation from BCTs you will conduct 24 weeks of Basic Branch Training (BBTs) comprising:
- Radio Theory and Networking;
- Strategic and Tactical Communications;
- Visual Communications; and
- IT Industry training comprising Network Essentials and Information Systems Administrator 1 and CISCO Certified Network Associate (CCNA – Network Fundamentals).
Civilian Qualifications – Aside from the Maritime Restricted Radio Operators Certificate, no other qualification is awarded. However, should an individual wish to pursue a qualification associated with the Communications Warfare Specialist trade. The NZDF encourages, and can in some instances provide access to sponsored tertiary education.
On successful completion of BBTs you will join the Fleet as a Communications Warfare Specialist and consolidate through On-the-Job-Training (OJT). Employment opportunities for Communications Warfare Specialists exist on a rotational basis, either ashore, at sea or deployed on a mission. Whether you are carrying out a long range combat mission, conducting support operations in the Pacific, Search and Rescue or patrolling NZ’s territorial waters, there is a role for a Communications Warfare Specialist.
03Ongoing Training
Ongoing Training
Throughout your career you will continue to gain experience and be provided with the necessary resources to work in the Communications, Information and Warfare environment. Additional Trade training as well as Command and Management courses are provided for personal, professional and promotional advancement.
Those Senior Communications Warfare Specialists selected to undertake Spectrum Management training will incur a 12-month Return of Service Obligation.
Benefits & allowances
Earn a competitive salary while training or learning your trade, along with additional allowances for time spent in the field, at sea, overseas, or deployed on operations.
In addition to salary and allowances, other benefits of joining the New Zealand Defence Force include:
- Access to your Service marae or tūrangawaewae
- Sponsored tertiary study programmes at all levels
- Free access to gyms and swimming pools on camp and bases
- Opportunities to travel
- Free and subsidised medical and dental care
- Subsidised food and accommodation on camps and bases
- Free and subsidised insurance cover
- Help to buy a home and save for retirement
Salary & benefits
Careers in the Navy are well-rewarded, as well as being diverse and exciting. As you become more experienced and move up through the ranks, gaining additional skills and qualifications, you will see your salary rise accordingly.
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Under training
$68,103
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Future potential earnings
$98,000
Am I fit enough?
If you want to be part of the NZ Defence Force you need to be medically and physically fit for military duties worldwide.
Medical & Fitness
The application process
Your step-by-step guide on what to expect at various stages of the application process, specifically for military roles.
Application process
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