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About the role Career progression and training Salary and benefits Entry requirements
As a Communications and Information Systems Officer (CISO), you will be responsible for leading personnel and Information Communication Technology (ICT) systems to support operations wherever the RNZAF is deployed.
Service Air Force
Specialisation Intelligence, IT and Communications
Location Auckland, Palmerston North, Wellington, Blenheim
Starting Trade Training $71,113
About the role
Effective employment of Information Communication Technology (ICT) can offer a military force a significant operational advantage. Communication and Information Systems Officers (CISOs) are experts in the employment of high-tech IT systems designed to interconnect elements of a military force.
As a CISO you will be responsible for leading personnel and ICT systems to support operations wherever the RNZAF is deployed.
Job on base
At an Air Force Base, CISOs command teams of specialist CIS Technicians. These teams provide communication support to RNZAF aircraft using satellite and radio systems to pass information between the aircraft and ground-based IT networks.
You will be responsible for ensuring your team is ready to deploy whenever needed, ensuring equipment is serviceable and personnel under your command are trained and ready to perform their duties.
Job on deployment
A CISO can expect to be one of the first to deploy, arriving ahead of the main force. You will be required to manage your team in order to establish vital communication with headquarters (HQ) and to set up other critical information systems for use by the deploying force.
While deployed, a CISO will direct the establishment of IT, satellite and radio networks that support the functions of command and control, intelligence, logistics and communications. Once setup, these networks need to be protected from cyber threats, jamming and interception by adversaries. Your knowledge of cyber-defence and electronic warfare will be critical to safeguarding our operationally sensitive information.
You'll engage with other divisions of the military and Other Government Agencies in order to ensure the successful fulfilment of the mission.
Career progression and training
After successful completion of RNZAF Officer Commissioning Course (ROC), you will take your first command appointment as a section commander in charge of a team of CIS Technicians at RNZAF Base Whenuapai or RNZAF Base Ohakea. Completion of military training and industry courses will further develop your knowledge, and changing job roles every 2-3 years will help broaden your experience.
There will be opportunities to deploy on exercises in New Zealand and overseas which are designed to prepare you to lead on military operations. As you gain experience and move up in rank you will have the opportunity to be posted to the operational Headquarters in Trentham or to the strategic Headquarters in Wellington.
Throughout your career there will be opportunities to study for career-relevant tertiary and industry qualifications, with opportunities to be posted overseas.
Salary and 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.
$50,597 Under Initial Training
$71,113 Starting Trade Training
$169,941 Future Potential Earnings
Figures updated on July 1st 2023
Entry requirements
You must be at least 18 years of age at the completion of your RNZAF Officer Commissioning Course (ROCC)
Meet the citizenship & security requirements to gain TSV security clearance for this trade.
Full Drivers Licence but consideration given for Restricted (in a manual transmission vehicle).
You must be medically fit for service.
You must meet the minimum entry fitness standards.
Colour perception restrictions may apply.
Minimum : Level 5 Diploma in Electronics and Computer Technology, Telecommunications or Business Information Systems (or similar).
There are strict citizenship and security requirements to gain the required TSV security clearance for this trade.
Ready to start your Air Force career?
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