Seaman Combat Specialists are the experts in the control and conduct of all seamanship operations, gunnery tasks, boardings of other vessels and force protection (ships security). They conduct all aspects of ship’s cleanliness and upper deck maintenance. As a Seaman Combat Specialist your role is mentally and physically demanding, whether driving the Navy RHIBs (Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats), undertaking fire fighting exercises, searching boats for illegal cargo, conducting refuellings at sea and all small arm weapon drills and training. Seaman Combat Specialists are also responsible for all parade and ceremonial duties as well as seamanship training.

Job on Base

Shore positions for Seaman Combat Specialists are available at the Sea Safety Training Squadron, the Small Arms Training Unit, the Naval Boat Yard and at  the Ceremonial Parade Ground, assisting with ceremonial and parade duties.

Job on Deployment

Following the Seaman Combat Specialist course, personnel are usually posted to sea to begin on-the-job training that consolidates the skills that you learnt on course, and provides the experience required for the first promotion to Able Seaman Combat Specialist. Whilst at sea, you will drive the ship, conduct lookout duties and other specialist and general tasks. In special circumstances Seaman Combat Specialists may be required to work up to 18 hours a day at sea, depending upon the ship’s requirements. Service at sea is for a period determined by the requirements of the Navy, but Seaman Combat Specialists should expect to spend the first few years of their career at sea.

Career Progression

Following your initial training, you will spend the majority of your career at sea to first consolidate and then develop your skills. Postings ashore and at sea will follow and professional training with further training assisting with your professional development and career progression. There are opportunities for Seaman Combat Specialists on all Navy Ships, whether they are carrying out long range combat missions and patrolling New Zealand's territorial waters.  Peacekeeping opportunities as part of a deployed force are also available. Seaman Combat Specialists at sea are responsible for a specific part of ship, and become experts in the completion of specific tasks or naval ‘evolutions’.

Careers in the Navy 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.

While undertaking Basic Recruit Course you will be paid as a Recruit (see attached pay table). On completion of  your Recruit Course you will be paid as an Ordinary Rate and your pay will continue to increase as your career progresses.

• You must be at least 17 years of age.
• Meet the citizenship & security requirements to gain CV security clearance for this trade.
• You must be free of any criminal convictions.

• You must have completed at least three years at secondary school.
• You must have a minimum of 8 NCEA level 1 credits in English and Maths.

• You must be medically fit for service.
• No decreased colour perception.

You will be predominantly posted at Devonport Naval Base unless posted to sea.