C-130 Synthetic Training Centre Simulator Operator

New Zealand Defence Force; Waitakere Ranges; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Life cover

Critical illness protection

Discounted insurances

Free will services

Mortgage guidance

Job summary

New Zealand Defence Force – Waitakere, North Island is seeking a Simulator Operator to work with qualified Flying Instructors and aircrew to deliver realistic training. You will operate simulator systems and manage scenarios, contributing to qualification testing and training delivery.

Join a highly technical aviation environment and support NZDF capability. Occasional travel is required, and the role includes hosting visitors at the Synthetic Training Centre.

Qualifications

• Five years aviation related experience, ideally in a military multi-crew environment.
• Experience operating complex technical, aviation, simulation, or training systems.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to follow procedures.
• Strong computer literacy and the ability to learn new systems quickly.
• This role requires occasional domestic travel.

Responsibilities

• Operate the C-130J Instructor Operating Station (IOS) to support simulator training missions.
• Manage training scenarios, aircraft configurations, environmental conditions, and simulator malfunctions during exercises.
• Support simulator maintenance activities, fault reporting, and system performance monitoring.
• Conduct qualification testing and assist with the ongoing certification of simulator systems.
• Deliver instructor operator training to aircrew and support personnel.
• Host visitors and represent the Synthetic Training Centre at relevant forums and events.

Skills

Aviation experience

System operation

Troubleshooting

Attention to detail

Computer literacy

Domestic travel

Tools

Simulation systems

Training systems

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

New Zealand Defence Force – Waitakere, North Island

As a Simulator Operator, you will work closely with Qualified Flying Instructors and aircrew to deliver realistic, high-quality training outcomes. You will operate simulator systems, manage tactical training scenarios, provide role-play support, assist with simulator maintenance activities, and contribute to qualification testing and training delivery.

This is a unique opportunity to work in a highly technical aviation environment and play a direct role in supporting New Zealand Defence Force capability.

Operate the C-130J Instructor Operating Station (IOS) to support simulator training missions.

Manage training scenarios, aircraft configurations, environmental conditions, and simulator malfunctions during exercises.

Support simulator maintenance activities, fault reporting, and system performance monitoring.

Conduct qualification testing and assist with the ongoing certification of simulator systems.

Deliver instructor operator training to aircrew and support personnel.

Host visitors and represent the Synthetic Training Centre at relevant forums and events.

The salary for this role ranges from $90,158 to $99,501, inclusive of a 4% superannuation contribution. Appointments within this range are based on skills and experience.

Applications may be reviewed upon receipt. It is advised to apply early to avoid disappointment, as this role may close ahead of time due to a high volume of applicants.

We are looking for someone who thrives in a technical environment and enjoys supporting operational training outcomes.

You will bring:

• Five years aviation related experience, ideally in a military multi-crew environment.
• Experience operating complex technical, aviation, simulation, or training systems.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to follow procedures.
• Strong computer literacy and the ability to learn new systems quickly.
• This role requires occasional domestic travel.

Nōu te rourou | What's in it for you

Safeguard your loved ones with a fully funded life cover of up to $300,000 and critical illness protection. Other benefits include discounted additional insurances, free will services and savings schemes for the Defence community. Get expert financial guidance and mortgage broker services. Find all our benefits and more on the Force 4 Families website.

NZDF champions diversity and inclusivity, valuing every member and fuelling their success. We embrace uniqueness, understanding that diverse teams drive creativity, innovation, and excellence. With an open door to all – irrespective of gender, ethnicity, ability, age, or family dynamics – NZDF offers a flexible, empowering work environment. Join us in shaping a brighter future, where everyone thrives.

Applications close on Wednesday 23 September 2026.

Eligibility for Higher Level Security Clearance

You must be a New Zealand citizen or you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa.

At minimum, you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa, and you must be a citizen of and have lived in Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, United States of America or New Zealand continuously for the last ten (10) years.

You must have a ten (10) year background history that can be verified and assessed appropriately by the NZ Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) to determine if you are suitable for a security clearance at this level.

If you do not meet the minimum criteria, unfortunately, your application will not be accepted. We do welcome your application at a time when you will meet the requirements.

Applicants will be required to undergo a pre-employment drug-screening test prior to any offer of employment being made.

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