Aviation Security Officers, Queenstown

JobsCloseBy Editorial Insights

An opportunity to join the Civil Aviation Authority as an Aviation Security Officer at Queenstown Airport, a permanent full time frontline role starting early May 2026 with a salary of $72,187 per year and a strong benefits package that includes career development, wellbeing support, generous leave, up to 4% KiwiSaver, and a full uniform. You will screen passengers and baggage, carry out patrols, monitor access to secure areas, and respond to security breaches, working in a fast paced, noisy environment with 6 days on 3 off rosters and 30 minute duty rotations. To apply, submit an updated CV by Sunday 15 February 2026, confirm NZ citizenship or residency, be medically fit, and be prepared for 12 weeks of fully paid training culminating in NZQA Level 4; note Queenstown accommodation constraints; see the position description and careers page for details and contact [email protected] with questions.

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Aviation Security Officers
Queenstown Airport
Permanent Full-Time Roles | $72,187 per annum | Start date: early-May 2026

 

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

 

As the industry evolves, so do we, through innovative technology, new ways of working, and a team of people who are passionate about what they do. Now’s the time to get on board. We are building a forward-thinking, modern CAA, and we need people who want their work to matter. People who thrive on challenges, value collaboration, and want to make a positive impact every day. 

 

If you are ready to grow your career while helping keep one of New Zealand’s most vital sectors safe and secure, this is your opportunity. Step into a frontline role that makes a real difference. As an Aviation Security Officer (ASO), you will play a critical role in keeping travellers safe and secure.  

 

 

What You Will Do 

 

No two days are the same in this role. As an ASO, you will be at the heart of airport operations, keeping our skies safe and supporting smooth travel for passengers. Your responsibilities will include: 

 

• Screening passengers and baggage using specialist equipment.
• Carrying out mobile, foot, and static patrols around the airport.
• Monitoring access to secure areas and checking ID cards.
• Preventing and responding to potential breaches of aviation security. 

 

What We Offer

 

Our people are at the heart of everything we do and we are proud of the professionalism, respect, and integrity they bring every day. In return, we offer:

 

• A competitive salary with regular reviews - your contribution is recognised and rewarded.
• Career development pathways and progression opportunities.
• Wellbeing support including health checks and medical insurance discounts.
• Generous leave provisions so you can balance work and life.
• Up to 4% KiwiSaver matched.
• A full uniform provided, so you are ready for action every day.

 

Training and Development

 

You will receive comprehensive, fully paid training over 12 weeks, 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. 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. Please note that the final 3 weeks of training will be based in Christchurch, with accommodation and travel provided. 

 

 

About You 

 

We are looking for team players who thrive in dynamic environments and enjoy engaging with people from all walks of life. You will be confident, adaptable, and able to keep calm under pressure. You will bring: 

 

• Strong problem-solving abilities. 

• The ability to engage professionally with people and de-escalate challenging interactions. 

• Good situational awareness. 

• Excellent time management skills, flexibility, and adaptability. 

 

To join our team, you must:

 

• Have NZ/Australian citizenship or NZ residency. 
• Be comfortable working in a fast-paced, noisy, and often distracting environment that requires you to maintain strong focus and concentration.
• Be comfortable with change and prepared to work according to a roster with 30-minute duty rotations, where some - or all duties - can switch at short notice during your shift, depending on operational needs on the day. 
• Be flexible to work a rostered shift pattern of 6 days on, 3 days off (including days, nights, weekends and public holidays),
• Be medically fit and willing to undergo a medical assessment.
• Be available for an in-person assessment centre and interview in late-February 2026.

 

Because safety is at the heart of everything we do, all applicants will be asked to complete some pre-employment questions. This helps us make sure you will be safe and supported in the Aviation Security Officer role. There are a small number of medical conditions that may not be compatible with the duties of this position. Please note on your application form anything that you think may impact your ability to do the role. 

 

To check out all our benefits and entry requirements, click on the link below Aviation security careers | aviation.govt.nz . 

 

 

Ready to apply?

 

Submit your application with an updated CV online by Sunday 15/02/2026. For more information, please refer to the position description, or visit our careers page.

 

If you have any questions about this role, please contact us on [email protected].

 

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 have accommodation within reasonable commuting distance of the airport.