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Navy

Reserve Psychologist

A psychology career unlike any other, based ashore, at sea and even overseas. You will have the opportunity to experience a number of areas within organisational and military psychology.

Mō te tūranga

About the role

  • Specialisations

    Healthcare | Navy Reserve | Officers & Management

  • Entry type

    Officer entry, Navy Reserve

  • Daily Initial Rate

    $224

  • Location

    Auckland, Tauranga, Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin

As a Psychologist, your role in the RNZN is broad and varied. Navy Psychologists are regularly involved in challenging professional tasks within the New Zealand Defence Force that require psychological knowledge and expertise.

You need to have a Master’s Degree in Psychology before applying, be registered with the New Zealand Psychologists Board and be a member of the New Zealand Psychological Society.

If you have referred to the minimum requirements below but would like more information on this role please email specialists@defencecareers.mil.nz 

Applications

This role may not be recruited for 6-12 months but we'd encourage you to apply early. You can check in-demand trades for our next intakes

Requirements

Basics

  • Hold a current practising certificate in the “Psychologist” or “Clinical Psychologist” scope of practice;
  • Be a member of the New Zealand Psychological Society;
  • Be free of any criminal convictions for the previous two years;
  • Pass an Officer Selection Board.

Education

  • Hold a Master’s Degree in Psychology, preferably with an industrial/organisational focus or a clinical focus.
  • Have at least two years of relevant, post-qualification experience.

Citizenship

There are strict citizenship and security requirements to gain the SV security clearance required for this trade. You must be free of any criminal convictions for the previous two years.

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.

“WATCH | How our Psychologists help enhance the performance of individuals and teams across the NZDF.”

  • Job on base

    Your role is demanding yet fulfilling and provides exposure to a number of areas within the disciplines of organisational and military psychology. Navy Psychologists are regularly involved in challenging professional tasks within the New Zealand Defence Force that require psychological knowledge and expertise.

  • Job on deployment

    Another significant area of work involves support to operations.  As an RNZN Psychologist, you may have the opportunity to provide support to crew onboard a ship at sea.  You will also be part of a wider team of NZDF psychologists.  All NZDF psychologists are involved in providing education and support to individuals and formations heading overseas on deployments, as well as providing support and screening for those returning from missions.  From time to time, this work occurs outside New Zealand, so you may be called upon to serve overseas temporarily.

Career progression and training

01Training Overview

02Time Commitment

03Basic Training - JOCT

04Job Training - Psychologist

05Career Progression

Salary & Benefits

As a Navy Reserve Officer, the minimum remuneration you will be paid is a daily rate, plus an allowance for holiday pay. The NZDF also pays 4% Kiwisaver on top of your personal contribution. Your remuneration will increase on promotion and seniority.

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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
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The application process

Your step-by-step guide on what to expect at various stages of the application process, specifically for military roles.

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Ready to start your Navy career?

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