As an Intelligence Specialist you will specialise in either Imagery, Geospatial or Electronic Warfare. Your specialisation will be determined through an assessment process, matching up your capabilities and strengths to the right specialisation.  

As an Image Analyst you will be trained in the exploitation of optical, infrared, electro-optical and radar imagery, as well as training in the use of full motion video. The resulting analysis is used to support the full range of military operations including everything from Fisheries Patrol and Disaster Recovery to combat operations. You will be the eyes of the intelligence trade, looking for things that others can’t see.

Geospatial Specialists are responsible for the production of a range of geospatial data and mission products, which includes everything from maps and charts; spatial analysis of information through to three dimensional fly throughs that show weapon threats, airspace and exercise zones.  You will work with a variety of applications and tools that can be used to present and analyse information in a variety of different ways both in terms of hard copy print outs to digital data for use in electronic systems.  Geospatial Analysts present information and intelligence in a way that makes it easier for all to understand

Electronic Warfare Specialists are responsible for the analysis, production and programming of data across the electromagnetic spectrum in order to support electronic warfare support equipments that are fitted to our aircraft.  This includes systems that need to be able to detect and identify threats but also includes aircraft self protection systems that are designed to keep our aircraft and aircrew safe.

Your role will see you using state of the art work stations, and other high technology devices and software in the course of your daily duties.  A high degree of computer literacy is a must as you manipulate web based application as well as digital data libraries and tools.  Technology is a key partner of the Intelligence Specialist.

You will frequently work in a secure environment with a close knit, highly motivated team who are very mission focused.  As an Air Force we are always ready to respond, with Intelligence support being a 24 hour job, you may deploy at short notice and operate in various locations throughout the world.  The prospect of shift work can add flexibility to your personal pursuits, but remains a reality of the job.

The world of an Intelligence Specialist is always dynamic and constantly challenging as we support operations in every corner of the world.  You may be working up a package supporting a border protection operation today with Customs and Police; and days later deployed overseas supporting operations in Afghanistan.  Variety is a key component of the Intelligence Specialists role.

Job on Base

You will work with aircrew and Intelligence Officers in the preparation and planning for missions. This includes researching, preparing, producing and collating mission data, presenting oral and written reports as well as preparing visual aids for briefing purposes.

You will maintain computerised intelligence databases which involves inputting, storing and retrieving information. You will also interpret and analyse all forms of intelligence data to produce electronic warfare, geospatial and imagery-related reports and products in support of a broad range of Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) maritime, land and air operations.

In order to support this and following Recruit training, you will initially attend a Foundation Air Intelligence course.  Depending on your specialisation, you will be selected to attend intensive training in either electronic warfare, geospatial or imagery analysis followed by a period of consolidation at 230 Squadron to hone your newly developed skills.  Throughout your career, you can expect to further extend your skillsets in specialist areas.

Job on Deployment

All Intelligence Specialists will have the opportunity to deploy with squadrons on exercises or operations. You will spend time in other countries and experience a diversity of cultures and conditions as you support the activities of the squadron you are deployed with. Your duties on deployment will draw on your specific specialisation (Imagery; Geospatial or Electronic Warfare) and have you working alongside aircrew and other intelligence staff. 

At times you may be called upon to deploy on  operations at short notice and to work shifts. Such is the varied and dynamic nature of the role that no day is ever the same as an Intelligence Specialist.  You may be supporting a Economic Zone Patrol around New Zealand one day, and deployed overseas the next working a multi national exercise involving aircraft, ships and land forces.

Professional Environment

Intelligence Trade personnel operate in small teams across a range of operational environments.  At all rank levels you will interact with members of other squadrons, especially aircrew trades and specialisations, as well as with members of the Army, Navy and wider Government Agencies.  

Career Progression

You will initially be employed at 230 (Mission Support) Squadron in Auckland; home of the RNZAF Intelligence Trade and responsible for mission support to RNZAF Air Operations.  At 230 Squadron you will be part of the Mission Support Flight (MSF) team working within the Imagery, Geospatial or Electronic Warfare Sections.   You can expect to spend at least six to eight years at 230 Squadron during which time you will complete deployments and operations both in New Zealand and overseas. 

Over your career  you may also complete six to twelve month exchanges with other NZDF and allied units.   As you develop experience you will complete at least one posting to Wellington at Defence or Joint Headquarters, possibly more.  Options for overseas posts are also feasible along with ongoing opportunities for deployment.   Intelligence Specialists continue to grow their skills throughout their career and will increasingly become involved in the management and coordination of staff; rising to become a Section Commander and ultimately potentially head up the Intelligence Team at 230 Squadron.

The minimum remuneration you will be paid from your enlistment is $35,694. Your remuneration will increase upon graduation of your recruit course to $42,487 and will continue to increase on promotion and seniority.

• You must be 17 Years 8 Months or Older on Date of Enlistment.

• Applicants must be a NZ citizen (some exceptions apply).

• A 10 year background history that can be checked by New Zealand authorities to obtain high level security clearances.

• You must pass a full Psychological Assessment.

• A minimum of 12 NCEA Level 2 Credits in English, Mathematics and a Science subject.

• No colour perception irregularities.

• There is a 24 month Return of Service associated with the Imagery Specialisation that commences from the completion of your Primary Trade Course.

You will initially be employed at 230 Squadron in Auckland, with employment at other bases throughout your career. During this time you will also have opportunities to be employed in various Defence Joint Service environments and potentially overseas.