Posted 21 August, 2026
Air Force - Parachute Jump Instructor
Defence Technology Agency
Wellington, WGN, NZ
Full Time
Reference: c72de87d739d5294
Job Description
There’s never a dull moment as a Parachute Jump Instructor (PJI) in the Air Force. From conducting static line training courses to advanced free‑fall training and a host of other responsibilities, you will find it an exhilarating and adrenalin‑charged career. About the role Flight operations | Operational support Entry type General entry Under training $69,833 Jumping out of a plane can be a challenge for some people – for you it comes with the territory. In the course of your duties as a PJI, you will be required to teach members of the New Zealand Defence Force to make descents ranging from 800 to 13,000 feet in various situations. One day, you could be teaching pilots and other aircrew how to handle parachutes should they need to bail out, the next day you could be teaching Army personnel how to descend into enemy territory. You will act as a dispatcher for parachuting sorties, carry out drop zone safety officer duties, and conduct display descents as part of the RNZAF Parachute Display Team, Kiwi Blue. Requirements Basics An NZPIA B License with a minimum of 200 jumps (or equivalent). Must be18 years old by the time you graduate from recruit course. Note, qualifications may be used to assess trade suitability. Your training is some of the most thorough and advanced in the world. On graduation, you will be required to serve 2 years in the Air Force. This helps the NZDF make the most of the skills and knowledge you’ve built during your training. Job on Base As a Parachute Jump Instructor you will operate primarily from the Parachute Training and Support Unit hangar at Whenuapai. You’ll prepare parachutists for descents and conduct live training activities both during the day and at night. Jumps will be conducted from C-130 and contracted aircraft. You will also manage and take part in descents onto water and remote Drop Zones. 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 $69,833 Future potential earnings $100,996 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‑step guide on what to expect at various stages of the application process, specifically for military 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 You will understand why this is one of the most sought after careers in the Air Force as you take the controls of some of the modern, high performance military aircraft in our fleet. #J-18808-Ljbffr