Senior Firefighter

Mō te tūnga | About the role

This is an exciting opportunity to apply your firefighting expertise within the specialised field of Aviation Rescue and Firefighting.

In this role, you will be responsible for responding to emergency incidents and accidents at RNZAF Base Ohakea including the airfield, with a primary focus on preserving life, property and critical assets. You'll also have the opportunity to take part in a variety of exercises, training activities and events unique to a military aviation environment.

We are seeking experienced firefighters who are strong team players and enjoy working as part of a professional and collaborative team.

As part of our emergency response capability, travel to other locations throughout New Zealand will be required at times.

This position operates on a rostered shift pattern, and you will be appropriately compensated with a salary loading payment in addition to your base salary.

Ngā pūkenga me ngā wheako | Skills and Experience

As firefighting is not without its challenges, you will be highly resilient, adaptable to changing situations, able to think clearly and respond effectively under pressure.

A strong understanding of domestic and industrial firefighting practices is essential, along with the confidence and capability to lead team members during routine activities when required.

Key skills and experience includes:

• Considerable experience responding to fire and non-fire related emergencies.
• An understanding of the New Zealand Coordinated Incident Management System.
• Ability to communicate confidently with a wide range of people and build sustainable professional relationships with ease.
• The necessary Senior firefighter training (FENZ Senior Fire Fighter or equivalent), Emergency Response Driver qualified.
• A full class 2 driver’s licence that you’ve held for at least six months. A class 4 licence is desirable.

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

Your skills and dedication deserve recognition, and NZDF delivers with competitive pay matched to your experience. But that's just the beginning – safeguard your loved ones with a fully funded life cover of up to $300,000 and critical illness protection. Other benefits include discounted additional insurances, free will services and savings schemes for the Defence community. Get expert financial guidance and mortgage broker services. Find all our benefits and more on the Force 4 Families website.

NZDF champions diversity and inclusivity, valuing every member and fuelling their success. We embrace uniqueness, understanding that diverse teams drive creativity, innovation, and excellence. With an open door to all – irrespective of gender, ethnicity, ability, age, or family dynamics – NZDF offers a flexible, empowering work environment. Join us in shaping a brighter future, where everyone thrives.

Me pēhea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Applications close on Monday 16 November 2026.

Use the Apply button, where you’ll be directed to the Defence Careers website.

Please Note:

• All applications must be made online, via the Defence Careers website. Each listing contains the Position Description and a Contact Us option for any queries or technical issues.
• Your cover letter will be a key part of our selection process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key activities outlined in the Advert and Position Description.
• Applicants will be required to undergo a pre-employment drug-screening test prior to any offer of employment being made.

NZDF Employees/Members – please apply internally via the HR Toolkit; this will ensure that you are visible as an internal candidate.

NZDF Contractors – please apply via the Defence Careers website.

NZDF Reserves – please apply via the Defence Careers website if you cannot access the HR Toolkit.

Security clearance eligibility

To be eligible for the required level of government security clearance with the NZ Defence Force, you need to meet certain citizenship and residency criteria. Here’s what you need to know:

Low Level Security Clearance

• You must be a New Zealand citizen or you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa.
• At minimum, you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa, and you must be a citizen of and have lived in Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, United States of America or New Zealand continuously for the last five (5) years.
• You must have a five (5) year background history that can be verified and assessed appropriately by the NZ Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) to determine if you are suitable for a security clearance at this level.

If you do not meet the minimum criteria, unfortunately, your application will not be accepted. We do welcome your application at a time when you will meet the requirements.