Mō te tūranga
About the role
-
Specialisations
Flight operations
-
Under training
$69,833
-
Location
Whenuapai
Air Loadmasters operate aboard the Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules, the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s tactical airlift aircraft. From inside the aircraft’s cargo compartment, you manage the movement of cargo, operate the loading systems, and monitor loads throughout the flight.
The role also involves planning and conducting aerial delivery operations, where cargo, equipment or personnel are delivered by parachute from the aircraft. Air Loadmasters prepare loads for these air drops, ensure they are correctly rigged and secured, and also coordinate the safe release of cargo from the aircraft during flight.
Operating across New Zealand, the South Pacific and internationally, Air Loadmasters support a wide range of missions including tactical airlift, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief and Antarctic logistics. Their expertise ensures people and equipment can be delivered safely, even into remote or challenging environments.
Accepting Applications
-
Recruit 3/26, starts 22 Sept 2026 Apply by 08 Jun 2026
Apply Now
Requirements
Basics
- Must be 18 years old by the time you graduate from recruit course.
- Eligible to meet national security clearance criteria, as stipulated by the Government's Protective Security Requirements.
- Pass an Aircrew Selection Board.
Education
Minimum: NCEA Level 2 certificate.
Find out more about the NCEA levels and certificate requirements.
Fitness & Medical
Citizenship
There are strict citizenship and security requirements to gain the required SV security clearance for this trade.
Find out if you’re eligible here.
Period of Service
There may be a return of service period for this trade.
Please contact our 0800 number or talk to your Candidate Experience Facilitator for more information.
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 if you can proceed.
-
Job on base
When not flying missions, Air Loadmasters are based with No. 40 Squadron RNZAF, where they maintain their operational readiness and specialist aircrew skills. This includes mission planning, preparing aircraft load plans and coordinating with logistics and maintenance teams to ensure cargo and passengers are ready for transport. Air Loadmasters also conduct regular training in cargo handling, aircraft systems and aerial delivery procedures, as well as completing ongoing aircrew safety and survival training. Time on base is also used for simulator training and supporting squadron activities to ensure crews are ready for upcoming missions.
-
Job on deployment
When deployed, Air Loadmasters travel overseas as part of the crew of a Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules, supporting New Zealand Defence Force operations and government tasks around the world. Missions regularly take crews throughout the South Pacific, Australia and Southeast Asia, and can extend further afield to locations in the Middle East, Europe and North America depending on operational requirements.
Working as part of No. 40 Squadron RNZAF, Air Loadmasters help deliver personnel, vehicles and essential supplies to remote or international destinations. They may support humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions following cyclones, earthquakes or other emergencies in Pacific partner nations, transport NZDF personnel and equipment to overseas exercises or operations, or move cargo between international air bases.
Deployments can involve operating from unfamiliar airfields, coordinating with foreign militaries and partner agencies, and adapting to rapidly changing situations. Air Loadmasters ensure cargo is safely loaded, secured and delivered wherever the aircraft is tasked to go, helping enable the NZDF to respond quickly both regionally and globally.
Career progression and training
01Basic Training
Basic Training
Recruit Course
(12 weeks) Location: RNZAF base Woodbourne
The aim of this course is to induct aviators into the RNZAF and develop the necessary values, knowledge and military skills to enable them to fulfil their military responsibilities. This course will cover various subjects including:
- RNZAF culture, customs and protocol
- Organisation and administration
- Drill and parades
- Dress, grooming and hygiene standards
- Military law and the Military Justice system
- Air Power
- Military field skills
- Field craft skills
- Weapon training
- First aid
- Physical fitness and resilience
- Leadership at the Lead Self level
02Job Training
Job Training
CORPORAL PROMOTIONAL COURSE
(4 weeks) Location: RNZAF Base Woodbourne
Following basic military training you’ll be required to pass the Corporal Promotion Course. This course, conducted at Command and Recruit Training Squadron, is designed to assist RNZAF personnel in a smooth transition to the responsibilities associated with the rank of Corporal.
Corporal Promotion Course is part of the continuum of RNZAF training. It builds on the experiences and training from the previous ranks, and prepares you, not only for the new rank, but also for future promotions that may lie ahead.
NON COMMISSIONED OFFICER AIRCREW COURSE
(8 Weeks) Location: courses are available at RNZAF Base Ohakea and RNZAF Base Auckland.
This course includes a wide variety of topics including Aviation Medicine and Human Factors, Principles of Flight, and the basics of being RNZAF Aircrew. The two week survival course will see you test your limits in the sea and bush environments
AIR MOVEMENT OPERATOR COURSE
(7 Weeks) Location: RNZAF Base Auckland
The Air Movement Operator Course provides personnel with the skills and knowledge required to support military air transport operations. Students learn how to prepare and process passengers and cargo, complete air movement documentation, and operate ground handling equipment used to load and unload aircraft while working in a military air terminal.
AIR LOADMASTER CONVERSION COURSE
(6 Months) Location: RNZAF Base Auckland
You begin with ground theory of the C-130J Super Hercules, taught by an Air Loadmaster instructor covering technical aspects of the aircraft, flying orders and operating procedures crucial to the C-130J aircrew.
You then commence your flying phase which will be intense and challenging. You will have the support of the Air Loadmasters on 40 Squadron along with your course mates to get you through.
The course has mostly practical elements, with one-on-one instructor time working as part of a crew. Through hard work and determination, you will earn your coveted brevet and be recognised as an Air Loadmaster posted to 40 Squadron.
03Ongoing Training
Ongoing Training
To remain competent, you will regularly conduct training in all aspects of the C-130J Super Hercules capabilities. You will continually be provided with the skills to be a successful aviator, both within your specialist trade and as a member of the NZDF.
04Career Progression
Career Progression
After completing initial recruit, NCO and basic aircrew training, you will begin specialist aircrew training designed to prepare you for operations as an Air Loadmaster. This training includes aviation theory, aircraft systems knowledge and detailed instruction in cargo handling and aircraft loading procedures.
Once qualified, you will earn your aircrew brevet and join No. 40 Squadron RNZAF, where you will begin flying operational missions as part of the crew of the C-130J Super Hercules. As you gain experience, you will take on greater responsibility within the crew and may progress to senior aircrew roles such as an instructor loadmaster or leadership positions within the aircrew trade.
About five years after graduation you may be promoted to Sergeant, and from there further promotions are based on merit. There is also an option to become a Commissioned Officer.
Benefits & allowances
Earn a competitive salary while training or learning your trade, along with additional allowances for time spent in the field, at sea, overseas, or deployed on operations.
In addition to salary and allowances, other benefits of joining the New Zealand Defence Force include:
- Access to your Service marae or tūrangawaewae
- Sponsored tertiary study programmes at all levels
- Free access to gyms and swimming pools on camp and bases
- Opportunities to travel
- Free and subsidised medical and dental care
- Subsidised food and accommodation on camps and bases
- Subsidised insurance cover
Salary & 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.
-
Under training
$69,833
-
Future potential earnings
$98,000
Am I fit enough?
If you want to be part of the NZ Defence Force you need to be medically and physically fit for military duties worldwide.
Medical & Fitness
The application process
Your step-by-step guide on what to expect at various stages of the application process, specifically for military roles.
Ready to start your Air Force career?
Tūranga whaipānga
Related Roles
Airforce
- In Demand
Flight operations | Navigation | Officers & Management
Officer entry
Aboard the long-range surveillance P-8A Poseidon aircraft, you will learn to operate and manage the complex hi-tech systems used to conduct a wide variety of missions including anti-submarine warfare, resource protection and search and rescue.
Airforce
- In Demand
- Active Intakes
Flight operations | Intelligence, IT & Communications
General entry
As an Air Warfare Specialist your primary role is to operate the P-8A Poseidon’s highly advanced sensor systems to collect and analyse information.
Navy
- In Demand
Flight operations
General entry
As a Navy Helicopter Loadmaster (HLM), you are a key member of a Seasprite helicopter crew, within 6 Squadron, RNZN. Your office is an advanced and agile aircraft designed to operate in a range of extreme environments all over the world.