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Air Force Air Security Specialist

Air force air security specialists maintain security on Air Force bases, and protect Air Force assets and personnel. They also teach military skills to Air Force personnel.

Tasks & duties

Air force air security specialists may do some or all of the following:

patrol the Air Force base
guard the entrance to the base
gather evidence on offences and write reports
interview Air Force and civilian people and take statements
give evidence in Air Force courts
guard aircraft when away from the base
organise parades and ceremonial events
teach bushcraft, survival and map-reading
instruct Air Force personnel in how to use weapons

Skills & knowledge

Air force air security specialists need to have:

knowledge of self defence and how to use weapons
knowledge of air transport security
knowledge of first aid skills and cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
knowledge of Royal NZ Air Force regulations
good communication, people and leadership skills
organisation skills
problem-solving skills
the ability to use four-wheel drive vehicles

Entry requirements

To enter the Royal NZ Air Force (RNZAF) you must be at least 17 years old. You must be a New Zealand citizen (or have New Zealand permanent residency if you are a citizen of the UK, USA, Australia or Canada).

You need to pass a series of tests, including a medical exam and fitness test, and interviews. You also need to be given security clearance, so any criminal convictions you have will be looked at. It is preferred that you have held a Class 1 driver's licence for at least six months.

The minimum requirement to become an air force air security specialist is three years of secondary education. A minimum of 12 NCEA Level 2 credits in English, maths and a science subject are needed.

On completing initial and trade training, air security specialists are contracted to stay with the Air Force for a minimum of two years.

Tertiary education

The Air Force supports a select group of candidates to complete the RNZAF Initial Training Officer Training programme. Once they have graduated as a commissioned officer, they study for a degree in aviation management, science, or commerce at Massey University in Palmerston North. On completing their degrees, they are guaranteed a role in the RNZAF.

Training on the job

Skills are gained on the job. A basic military training recruit course is followed by specialist trade training.

Trade training is split into three areas. An air security primary trade training course is followed by advanced trade training, which is undertaken after two years on the job, and at the recommendation of your superiors. This can be followed by specific postgraduate training, but this is only conducted when required by the Air Force.