Royal New Zealand Corps of Signals (RNZ Sigs)

The Role

This job involves working with the sophisticated communications equipment and technology which keeps the Army's command and control systems up and running. You will learn to set up and operate multi-channel communications, long and short range radio networks and satellite terminals. Out in the field, you could find yourself in a highly mobile radio detachment or possibly a vehicle mounted radio/field line detachment.

Post Recruit Training

• RNZ Sigs Corps Training Course

You will start your telecommunications training with this three-month course, where you will learn radio voice procedure, basic information systems and
be introduced to some of the Army's communications equipment including the Tactical Mobile Communications Systems.

• Junior Course

This Course equips you with higher level communication skills including data, satellite and Information Systems skills. You will be taught the theory and implementation
of ground base satellite systems. This course also includes the engineering of long range data systems.

• Specialist Courses

These courses are made up of four electives. The electives specialise in Electronic Warfare, UHF Multi-Channel Bearer Systems, Strategic multi-channel satellite systems and Advanced Line Laying Techniques. The Advanced Line Laying Techniques course is associated with civilian qualifications these being BISCI Installer Level One, Employ Fall Arrest Systems, and Conduct Pole Top Rescue.

• Senior Courses

These courses are higher level courses which combine trade knowledge gained from the Junior and Specialist courses. Your knowledge of Satellite, Data, and Electronic Warfare will be enhanced to a higher level of understanding.

• Trade promotion Courses

The Detachment Commanders Course and the Troop Sergeants Course are part of your career progression. They are designed to test your trade knowledge and skills as well as your leadership ability. Base level management is conducted during these courses and enhanced at Unit level.

• Management Courses

More advanced courses will train you in the administration, design and management of communications systems. The Communications Information Systems Managers Course is designed to test your management skills and your ability to manoeuvre communications assets on the battlefield.

Postings/Where You Will Work

Initial posting

During your first three years of training as a Communications Systems Operator you will be posted to either 2 Signal Squadron, RNZ Sigs at Linton Military Camp or 3 Signal Squadron, RNZ Sigs at Burnham Military Camp.

In New Zealand

Primarily you will work within one of the squadrons and you'll also have the opportunity to work alongside other units, as well as the Air Force and Navy. As your career progresses you will continue to develop your skills and eventually work towards becoming a signals instructor. As an instructor, you can be posted to Waiouru to the School of Signals.

Overseas

Communications Systems Operators are employed in a variety of overseas deployments, exercises and missions, primarily in support of other units.

Getting Started

Army Support Career

Communications Systems Operator

• Minimum age 17
• Year 11 completion
• School Qualifications: A proven ability in English and Mathematics at NCEA Level 1 (12 credits per subject) or equivalent.
• Driver's Licence: A Class 1 restricted driver's licence is recommended, but is not compulsory.
• Additional Information: Must be a current New Zealand Citizen for security vetting purposes. 100% visual colour perception required. Some typing ability and computer skills will make your application more competitive.

All Arms Recruit Course (AARC):

For the first 16 weeks you will attend recruit training in Waiouru where you will adapt from civilian to Army life and learn to be a soldier. Once this is completed, you will be ready to start learning your trade.

Things To Know About The Army Before You Join

Have you got what it takes?

1. Be medically and physically fit.
   Before you undertake AARC (All Arms Recruit Course) it is essential that you are reasonably fit and free of injuries and medical problems. To give yourself a head start, you should aim to achieve the Army's minimum standard of fitness before you start AARC Training.
2. Be a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident.
   To be enlisted into the New Zealand Army, applicants must either be New Zealand Citizens or hold a Permanent Residence Visa. Upon enlistment, non-citizens must sign an undertaking that they will apply for New Zealand Citizenship when eligible.
3. Be free from criminal convictions.
   The Army has a high dependence on trust and use of technical equipment and weapons, and looks for recruits who are trustworthy and reliable. For this reason, all applicants undergo a police records check, and any convictions are assessed on the severity of the offence.
4. Be 17 or older to join.
   Applicants must be 17 years of age or older to enlist into the New Zealand Army. You can however start your application prior to turning 17 years old.
5. Satisfy the Army's standards of dress and presentation.
   There are a few rules in regards to dress standards in the Army. For instance, there are provisions as to what jewellery you can and cannot wear and also how long/short your hair should be.
6. The Armed Forces expects a high standard of personal conduct and self-discipline.
   It may take a bit of getting used to at first, but once you settle into the routine of Army life, your confidence and self discipline will enable you to handle any situation.
7. A career in the Army is more than a job - it's a lifestyle.
   One of the key things about life in the Army is that your job will vary and you'll be doing many different things. While you are in an Army Camp, your job is pretty much like any other 9 to 5 job, but you'll also spend time training overseas or elsewhere in New Zealand.
8. The Army offers a competitive income.
   As you complete training courses and your time in the Army increases, your salary increases with it. The cost of living in an Army Camp is low, giving you more disposable income to spend as you wish. And with access to recreational facilities and benefits provided by the Army, your final overall salary package is very competitive. The Army also provides, amongst other things, free medical and dental services, a Government subsidised superannuation fund and accommodation subsidies.
9. Testing areas for specific trades.
   The Army's selection process includes a series of basic aptitude tests on subjects ranging from spelling and mathematics to test areas specific to your chosen trade. For details on the process, including practice tests, visit our Test Preparation section.

These are the basic elements involved in joining the Army. For a more detailed outline, check out our FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) section or the Joining Requirements section.

• You must do medical, fitness and aptitude tests to check that you are fit, healthy and suited to a career in the Army
• See your local recruiter or visit our website to obtain a copy of our fitness planner
• You will also be interviewed and have to attend Assessment Days, which include career counselling, physical activities and preparation training
• If you make the grade and are accepted into the Army, you will either go on to do 16 weeks basic training for full-time service, or attend a shorter course (three weeks) for Territorial Force service (part-time). This will prepare you for military life
• Once you have completed the basic training, you will go to a unit and join your Corps.