Air Force - Communications and Information Systems Technician

Communications and Information Systems Technician

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).

About the role

Entry type : General entry, Under training

Salary : $68,860

Location : Auckland, Palmerston North, Wellington, Blenheim

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

Communications and Information Systems Technicians (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.

Recruitment starts 22 Sep 2025, apply by 26 May 2025. Must be 18 years old by the time you graduate from the recruit course. A full driver’s license is required, consideration given for restricted licenses.

Your training is some of the most thorough and advanced in the world. Once graduated, you’ll be contractually obliged to spend another 24 months in the Air Force.

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 eligibility.

“To know you can talk up to almost 3000 kilometers away on a piece of wire is really rewarding.”

Job on base

As a CISTECH on base, 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 aircraft and ground-based IT units, and assist in implementing IT infrastructure, upgrades, and testing new aircraft communications systems.

Working in a team and sometimes individually, you will ensure CIS systems are ready to deploy at a moment’s notice and that you are trained to provide and defend those operational systems.

Job on deployment

As a CISTECH, you can expect to be among the first to deploy. You will arrive ahead of the main force to establish vital communication with headquarters and set up critical information systems.

While deployed, you will provide ICT, satellite, and radio networks to support command and control, intelligence, logistics, and communications. You will employ your training to protect and maintain these networks from cyber threats, jamming, and interception by adversaries. Collaboration with other military divisions and external agencies will be essential to mission success.

Training and benefits

Upon enlistment, you will undergo basic military training covering organization, administration, customs, protocol, drill, parades, field skills, weapon training, first aid, and search and rescue techniques.

You will earn a competitive salary during training, with additional allowances for field, sea, overseas, or operational deployment time.

Additional benefits include :

• Access to Service marae or tūrangawaewae
• Sponsored tertiary study programs
• Free gyms and pools on camp and bases
• Travel opportunities
• Free / subsidized medical and dental care
• Subsidized food and accommodation
• Insurance cover
• Support for home buying and retirement savings

As you progress, gaining skills and qualifications, your salary will increase accordingly.

Future earnings

Starting at $68,860, with potential earnings up to $98,000.

Physical fitness requirements

You need to be medically and physically fit for military duties worldwide.

Application process

Follow our step-by-step guide for military role applications. This role involves servicing, overhauling, and maintaining aircraft systems and components to produce accurate intelligence from imagery, signals, and geospatial data.

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