Career & Personal Development

Military People

NZDF has a unique position as one of very few organisations who trains its military people from entry level. It provides a range of career development opportunities, education, courses and unique on the job learning experiences. 

It is important to us that our people are continually learning, developing and growing. The first experience our military people will have will likely be initial or recruit training, where important foundational military understanding, skills, and teamwork is developed. Our military people will then have the opportunity to progress through different roles, locations, work environments and ranks. All of these experiences enable the development of personal and professional capabilities and ultimately to contribute to delivering military outputs.   

Careers can develop in many ways and we encourage our people to have conversations with their leaders and career managers about the types of development opportunities that are important to enable progression through to more senior roles. For some people, progression is less important than specific roles and experiences and those opportunities can also be explored. 

Training

All of our military people undertake a variety of training activities throughout their career. After initial training, depending on the corps, trade, branch or speciality selected, there are progression courses and on the job learning and training opportunities.  For some that may be undertaking trade training (such as building or vehicle mechanics), officer training, pilot training or as a systems engineer.  As well as trade related courses, our people will also participate in training relating to their service.   

Tertiary Education

All full time Regular Force people are entitled to access our Voluntary Education Study Assistance (VESA) scheme. This provides financial assistance to undertake part time study toward a Level 4 or higher qualification on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF). Members can apply for this scheme when you have completed one year of service with us.

The Services (Navy, Army and Air Force) all have their own schemes and opportunities which may be available to those seeking specific education relating to their service.  

The NZDF also has a world class Leadership Development Framework (LDF).  The framework has evolved over decades on research, development and learning within the NZDF.  

Learn more about the LDF's story(external link)

Senior Staff Development

For our most senior members of the NZDF, both civilian and military, there are opportunities to attend The NZDF Defence College (Command and Staff College and ILD) Staff College, an international War College, or a senior Warrant Officer Course.  There are some opportunities to study overseas such as Staff and War College to promote interoperability and to provide opportunities to grow and connect with partner nations’ colleagues. 

Transition from the NZDF

Transitioning from a career in the NZDF can feel daunting, but a range of resources is available to support military members moving into civilian roles or retirement. The goal is for each person to feel confident, prepared, and fully supported for this next stage of life. Career coaches, located at most camps and bases across New Zealand, are available to guide and assist all military personnel in planning their future.

Civilian Staff

Our civil staff members will often join the NZDF with previous skills and experience which enables them to deliver impact in a specific role immediately.  We'll provide you the skills and tools you need to do your job, and there are also opportunities to gain experiences which are unique to Defence, to work with military staff and capabilities and participate in development opportunities such as leadership framework transition courses and mentoring schemes.