Combat & Special Operations

Life in a Combat role

Moments of combat can be few and far between. But when they come, you need to be ready. Much of your time in a Combat role is spent preparing yourself, and your team. The training is intense, but rewarding, and there are many roles available. What expertise will you show when it matters most?

Total commitment

Combat roles will bring out the very best in you.

13 Roles available in the Combat & Special Operations specialisation across All services

Navy

In Demand
Active Intakes

Seamanship Combat Specialist

Combat & Special Operations

General entry

If you are tough, both mentally and physically, get stuck into this adrenalin packed role, boarding enemy vessels and providing security and maintenance for our ships.

Army

In Demand
Active Intakes

Army Officer

Combat & Special Operations | Engineering & Technical trades | Intelligence, IT & Communications | Logistics & Administration | Officers & Management

Officer entry

As a New Zealand Army Officer, you will lead teams in many different types of demanding environments, ensuring they are well-prepared, resilient, and mission-ready.

Army

In Demand

Armoured (Combat Specialist)

Combat & Special Operations

General entry

There is no other trade like that of being Armoured. You will be trained to operate and fight from within an armoured vehicle and trained in mounted reconnaissance.

Navy

Diver

Combat & Special Operations

General entry

A clearance diver is an exciting career path for men and women of the New Zealand Defence Force. A Navy diver is trained in Mine clearance and underwater explosives utilising the latest diving equipment. They also, search for missing persons and conduct underwater engineering on ships and structures.

Army

Gunner (Combat Specialist)

Combat & Special Operations

General entry

In the heart of the action, you will provide the indirect fire support for the NZ Army as part of a team operating the 105mm light gun.

Navy

Hydrographic Systems Operator

Combat & Special Operations | Intelligence, IT & Communications | Operational support

General entry

If you are fascinated by the sea and its geography, you will be fascinated by the opportunity to help create the sea and coastline charts to keep our ships at sea and clear of the rocks!

Army

Infantry (Combat Specialist)

Combat & Special Operations

General entry

As Infantry, you are a front line soldier, and the backbone of Army service.

Navy

Mine Warfare Clearance Diving Officer

Combat & Special Operations | Navigation | Officers & Management

Officer entry

As a Mine Warfare Clearance Diving Officer you will lead a team of divers in the water doing explosive ordnance disposal, maritime security and mine clearance tasks.