Aviation Security Officer - Full time

New Zealand Government Joba; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 65,000 - 79,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully paid training

Accommodation provided

Travel for training

Job summary

The Civil Aviation Authority invites applications for Aviation Security Officers at Queenstown Airport. This permanent full-time role offers a salary of NZD 72,187 per year and commences training in February 2027.

You will screen passengers and baggage, patrol the airport, monitor access, and quickly respond to security events, collaborating with staff to keep skies safe.

Qualifications

• Be a NZ citizen, Australian citizen, or NZ resident.
• Be medically fit and willing to undergo a medical assessment.
• Successfully complete background checks, including reference and police vetting.
• Able to work a rostered pattern including nights, weekends and public holidays.

Responsibilities

• Screening passengers and baggage using security equipment.
• Mobile, foot and static patrols around the airport.
• Monitoring access to secure areas and verifying IDs.
• Identifying and responding to potential security breaches.
• Supporting safe airport operations through observation and rapid response.
• Collaborating with colleagues and stakeholders to maintain security.

Skills

Calm under pressure

Teamwork

Decision making

Quick learner

Education

NZQA Level 4 qualification

Job description

The Civil Aviation Authority and the Aviation Security Service offer distinctively different career opportunities and embrace diverse talent. All jobs at the Authority contribute to ensuring safe and secure skies to help New Zealand fly. The Civil Aviation Authority is the regulatory arm of our organisation and the Aviation Security Service is the nationwide provider for aviation security.

Aviation Security Officers – Queenstown Airport Permanent Full-Time Roles | $72,187 per annum | Start date: 15 February 2027

At the Civil Aviation Authority, we don't just keep New Zealand's skies safe and secure, we help shape the future of aviation.

Every day, thousands of people travel through Wellington Airport. Behind every safe journey is a team of Aviation Security Officers who stay alert, make sound decisions, and work together to protect New Zealand's aviation system.

As technology evolves and new challenges emerge, we need people who can think on their feet, adapt to change, and remain focused when it matters most.

We're continuing to build a modern, forward-thinking aviation system, and we're looking for people who want their work to have real purpose.

If you're someone who enjoys learning, makes thoughtful decisions, works well with others, and stays calm under pressure, you'll find a rewarding career with us.

What You Will Do

No two days are the same.

• Screening passengers and baggage using specialised security equipment.
• Conducting mobile, foot, and static patrols throughout the airport environment.
• Monitoring access to secure areas and verifying identification credentials.
• Identifying, preventing, and responding to potential security breaches.
• Supporting safe airport operations through observation, communication, and rapid response.
• Working closely with colleagues and other airport stakeholders to resolve issues and maintain security.

What Success Looks Like

• Learn Quickly and Understand the Bigger Picture (Get Smart)

  You enjoy learning new skills, understanding why things are done a certain way, and applying that knowledge in practice. You're naturally curious, ask questions, and take responsibility for growing your capability.

• Exercise Good Judgement (Think Smart)

  You can assess situations, consider different perspectives, and make sound decisions, even when things are busy or changing quickly. You stay calm under pressure and know when to take action or seek support.

• Work Well With Others (Work Smart)

  You enjoy being part of a team and understand that great results come from collaboration. You communicate clearly, build positive relationships, and contribute to a workplace where people support each other's success.

• Adapt and Stay Professional (Act Smart)

  You remain resilient when priorities change and can adjust to new situations with a positive mindset. You treat people with respect, act with integrity, and take pride in doing the right thing every day.

Training and Development

You will receive comprehensive, fully paid training combining classroom learning with hands-on experience. By the end, you will hold a nationally recognised NZQA Level 4 qualification, setting you up for a rewarding career in aviation security.

Training will begin on 15 February 2027 and finish on 16 April 2027. You will need to be available for the full training period, as it's an important part of setting you up for success in the role.

If successful, you will need to be available for the full training period. Please note that the final 3 weeks of training will be based in Christchurch, with accommodation and travel provided.

To Be Eligible You Must

Be a New Zealand citizen, Australian citizen, or New Zealand resident.

• Be medically fit, and willing to undertake a medical assessment.
• Successfully complete other background checks, including reference and police vetting.
• Be comfortable working in a fast-paced, noisy environment that requires sustained concentration and attention.
• Be flexible and adaptable to operational changes throughout your shift.
• Be available to work a rostered pattern of 6 days on, 3 days off, including nights, weekends, and public holidays.
• Be available to attend an in-person assessment centre and interview, if selected, on 21 or 22 October 2026.

Why Join Us?

At the CAA, you'll be part of a team that protects New Zealand's aviation network while helping people feel safe when they fly. You'll challenge yourself, develop valuable skills, and work alongside people who are committed to making a difference every day.

If you're ready for a role where your judgement, professionalism, teamwork, and adaptability truly matter, we'd love to hear from you.

If you have any questions about this role, please contact us on [e-mail].

PLEASE NOTE: Queenstown is currently experiencing a significant shortage of available rental accommodation options. If you are applying from outside of the Queenstown Lakes area, you will be asked in your application to confirm that you already have accommodation within reasonable commuting distance of the airport.