Communications and Information Systems Technicians

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Military Role

Take up the challenge of mastering some of the world’s most sophisticated information communications technology (ICT) and travel with it to destinations around the world. Join us as a Communications and Information Systems Technician (CISTECH).

Military forces rely on accurate and timely information to maintain an operational advantage over their adversaries.

CISTECHs are experts at providing the ICT used to interconnect elements of a military force and defend it from electronic and cyber threats within New Zealand and overseas.

Watch CISTECHS on Exercise Tunex

Job on base

While on base, as a CISTECH you will provide communications support to RNZAF aircraft using ICT systems coupled with bearer systems (radio and satellite systems) You will enable information to be passed between the aircraft and ground-based IT units, and later on down the track, assist in implementing I.T infrastructure, upgrades and testing new aircraft communications systems.

Working in a team and sometimes as an individual, you will ensure CIS Systems are ready to deploy at a moments notice and that you are trained, ready to provide and defend those operational systems.

Job on deployment

A CISTECH can expect to be one of the first to deploy. You will arrive ahead of the main force to establish vital communication with headquarters (HQ) and to set up other critical information systems for use by the deploying force.

While deployed, a CISTECH will provide ICT, satellite and radio networks to support the functions of command and control, intelligence, logistics and communications. Once setup, you will employ your training to protect and maintain these networks from cyber threats, jamming and interception by adversaries. You will also work with other divisions of the military, as well as external agencies, to ensure the successful achievement of the mission.

Requirements

• 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.
• Full Drivers Licence but consideration given for Restricted.

Education

NCEA Level 2 certificate.

Find out more about the NCEA levels and certificate requirements

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 TSV security clearance for this trade.

Find out if you’re eligible here.

Period of Service

Your training is some of the most thorough and advanced in the world. On graduation, you will be required to serve 2 years in the Air Force. This helps the NZDF make the most of the skills and knowledge you’ve built during your training.

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.

Basic Training

Recruit Course

(12 weeks) Location: RNZAF base Woodbourne

The aim of this course is to induct aviators into the RNZAF and develop the necessary values, knowledge and military skills to enable them to fulfil their military responsibilities. This course will cover various subjects including:

• RNZAF culture, customs and protocol
• Organisation and administration
• Drill and parades
• Dress, grooming and hygiene standards
• Military law and the Military Justice system
• Air Power
• Military field skills
• Field craft skills
• Weapon training
• First aid
• Physical fitness and resilience
• Leadership at the Lead Self level

Job Training

PRIMARY TRADE TRAINING

Upon successful completion of Basic Training, you’ll be posted to RNZAF Base Woodbourne (Blenheim) over a period of approximately 26 weeks. Here you will carry out your Primary Trade Training which will train you in:

• Compliance with NZDF Security
• Theory and practical deployment of radio systems, including:
• Satellite Fundamentals
• Voice procedures for a hostile environment including RNZAF Aircraft and international distress voice procedures
• CISCO IT Essentials, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Introduction to Networks and CISCO Introduction to Cybersecurity
• How to deploy as a CIS Mechanic with a final culmination exercise

ON THE JOB TRAINING

Upon successful completion of Primary Trade Training, you will be posted to the mission support No. 230 Squadron, where you will consolidate your knowledge and gain new skills towards becoming a CIS Technician.

This period will be approximately 24 months long, where you will rotate through several sections in Auckland, Ohakea and Wellington. You will also have the opportunity to deploy on exercises in New Zealand and Overseas. Your continuation training will also cover:

• Consolidation of military radio training and procedures
• Specific equipment and networks used with RNZAF Aircraft,
• Specific equipment used in deployable CIS Systems and military satellite,
• CCNA Switching, Routing and Wireless Essentials.

ADVANCED TRADE TRAINING

Upon successful completion of your On the Job Training, you will be posted back to

RNZAF Base Woodbourne for a period of approximately 16 weeks. Advanced Trade Training builds on Primary Trade Training and the experiences you have gained on the job, in the workplace. You will advance your skills in:

• Building, installation, configuration and maintenance of deployable IT Systems
• CCNA Enterprise Networking, Security, and Automation
• Foundation Network Security course and CISCO Cyber Security Essentials
• Engineer and maintain bearer systems
• How to deploy as a CISTECH with a final culmination exercise

Ongoing Training

Once you successfully complete Advanced Trade Training, you will be a qualified RNZAF CISTECH. Continuous advances in CIS systems and capabilities will offer CISTECHs a dynamic and challenging role in the RNZAF. To keep current, you will receive ongoing training on CIS equipment and military training throughout your career, either at your unit or in a formal training environment. You will have access to ongoing formal training including technologies such as Cisco, Microsoft and Redhat.

From the time you complete your Primary Trade Training, you will under take NZDF driver training courses including: four wheel, light and medium weighted vehicles off road in the deployment of CIS Systems on exercises and operations (will need to develop manual transmission driving skills if successful).

Career Progression

Primary and advanced trade training will be completed early in your career, with core military and industry courses conducted throughout your employment. Postings to different RNZAF CIS units every 2-3 years will broaden your experience and consolidate your knowledge with opportunities to deploy on exercises in New Zealand and overseas.

As you advance in rank and with promotion into leadership roles, you will complete quality leadership training and then be assigned greater responsibilities for the management of personnel and equipment.

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
• Subsidised insurance cover

Salary & benefits

Careers in the Air Force 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.

• Under training $69,833
• Future potential earnings $98,000