Air Force - Air Loadmaster

As an RNZAF Air Loadmaster, you are a key member of a fixed‑wing airlift aircraft crew, responsible for the safe loading, restraint and delivery of passengers, vehicles and cargo. Working closely with pilots and groundcrew, you ensure the aircraft is configured correctly and that all loads are balanced and secured for flight. About the role Flight operations Under training $68,860 Location Ohakea 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 Apply by 08 Jun 2026 Must be 18 years old by the time you graduate from recruit course. 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. 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 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 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 $68,860 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. 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? Related Roles 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. General entry 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr