Licenced Aircraft Maintenance Engineer
Ohakea, RNZAF Ohakea Base, NZ, 4816
Your Opportunity
Jet Aviation is seeking a suitably qualified Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer to join our Defence operation at Base Ohakea, New Zealand, supporting the King Air fleet.
In this role, you will be responsible for ensuring that aircraft maintenance and associated support activities are carried out safely, effectively, and in full compliance with Jet Aviation, New Zealand Defence Force, and Civil Aviation Authority requirements. This is a hands-on opportunity within a dynamic and mission-critical environment, suited to a professional who demonstrates strong technical competence, sound judgement, and an unwavering commitment to aviation safety and quality.
This opportunity is ideal for a qualified LAME seeking not only a rewarding technical role, but also the stability of permanent full-time employment with a respected global aviation organisation. It offers the chance to pursue career development and progression while enjoying a lifestyle change in one of New Zealand’s most appealing regional locations.
*Annual Salary Package from NZD$100,000 - $115,000 + Kiwi Saver + OT + Allowances + Bonus + Relocation Assistance
Local & International Applicants Welcomed
We welcome applications from both local and international candidates.
Suitably qualified candidates currently residing in New Zealand, as well as overseas applicants, are encouraged to apply. International applicants with relevant qualifications and experience may be considered where they are eligible to pursue CAA New Zealand licence recognition, assessment, or conversion, subject to applicable regulatory requirements.
Jet Aviation may provide relocation support for successful candidates who are required to move to the Ohakea area. This includes candidates already based in New Zealand who are relocating domestically, as well as eligible international candidates relocating from overseas.
For the selected successful international candidate, visa sponsorship may be considered, subject to business requirements and the candidate satisfying all relevant immigration, licensing, medical, security, and employment conditions. Where applicable and eligible, consideration may also be given to support associated with relocation for accompanying family members, in line with current immigration settings and organisational approvals.
Any offer of employment to an international candidate will be conditional upon the successful candidate holding, or being able to obtain, the legal right to live and work in New Zealand. Depending on the candidate’s circumstances, this may require meeting the requirements of an appropriate work visa, such as an Accredited Employer Work Visa, in addition to meeting identity, health, character, and occupational licensing requirements. As immigration requirements may change, all visa and relocation matters will be assessed against current settings at the relevant time.
Your Responsibilities
- Supervise maintenance activities as required, ensuring all work is completed safely, efficiently, and to the required standard.
- Support, guide, and mentor Aircraft Maintenance Engineers and apprentice personnel in partnership with the Team Leader.
- Maintain current knowledge of applicable CAA and NZDF requirements and communicate relevant updates to the team.
- Ensure personal compliance with Base Ohakea access requirements, mandatory training obligations, and health and security currency requirements.
- Use and control only approved tools, equipment, materials, components, and maintenance data in accordance with approved procedures.
- Ensure all maintenance data is current, accessible, and at the latest revision status.
- Complete and oversee maintenance certification, records, and documentation accurately and in full compliance with company and regulatory obligations.
- Promptly report any condition that may affect flight safety and support investigations and corrective actions where required.
- Contribute actively to safety, quality, audit, environmental, housekeeping, FOD prevention, compliance, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Monitor hangar and facility conditions and escalate concerns as required.
- Undertake other duties as directed in support of operational requirements.
- Uphold Jet Aviation’s values of Trust, Honesty, Alignment, and Transparency in all aspects of the role.
What will Help you too Succeed
- A valid Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Licence issued by CAA New Zealand in accordance with Part 66, with appropriate ratings; or overseas aircraft maintenance qualifications, licensing, and experience that may be suitable for CAA New Zealand assessment, recognition, or conversion.
- A sound understanding of the Civil Aviation Act, Rules, and Advisory Circulars.
- Experience using Computerised Maintenance Management Systems.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively across teams and functions.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
- Strong attention to detail, professionalism, and discretion.
- A disciplined, safety-focused approach and the ability to perform effectively in a regulated operational environment.
- The following would be advantageous:
- Knowledge of New Zealand Defence Aviation Regulations.
- Understanding of ISO9001 and ISO45001 systems.
- A strong customer service and safety-focused mindset.
- Initiative, accountability, and a collaborative approach to team performance and technical excellence.
Why Jet Aviation?
- Join one of the world’s most respected aviation services companies, trusted globally for excellence, safety, and service.
- Build your career in a professional environment where technical capability, integrity, and operational performance are highly valued.
- Contribute to meaningful, mission-critical work supporting Defence aviation capability in New Zealand.
- Work alongside experienced professionals in a collaborative culture that promotes teamwork, knowledge-sharing, and continuous improvement.
- Access training, professional development, and long-term career opportunities within a global aviation organisation.
- Enjoy competitive remuneration, employee benefits, and relocation support for eligible candidates.
- Experience the stability of a permanent full-time opportunity while making a real impact in a critical operational setting.
- Join a company guided by the values of Trust, Honesty, Alignment, and Transparency in everything we do.
Why Ohakea?
Set in the heart of New Zealand’s lower North Island, Ohakea offers a lifestyle that’s increasingly hard to find, where meaningful careers meet space, balance, and community. With no long commutes, affordable living, and easy access to vibrant regional centres supported by the greater surrounding rural communities, it’s the perfect place to build your career without compromising your quality of life. Whether you're drawn by the outdoors, family-friendly living, or simply the opportunity to slow down and enjoy more of what matters, Ohakea delivers the best of New Zealand living.
- Affordable housing with more space, gardens, and lifestyle options.
- Short, stress-free commutes with more time for family and leisure.
- Relaxed regional living with a strong sense of community.
- Convenient access to Whanganui, Palmerston North, and Wellington.
- Close to beaches, rivers, hiking trails, cycling routes, and outdoor recreation.
- Family-friendly communities with schools, childcare, and local amenities nearby.
- A strong work-life balance in a location that supports both career and lifestyle.
Ready to Appy?
To apply, please submit:
- A cover letter outlining the role you are applying for and how your current and previous experience aligns with the responsibilities of the position.
- A current Resume/CV.
- A copy of your current Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Licence and/or relevant qualifications.
- Confirmation of your current right to work in New Zealand, if applicable.
Please note:If you are currently a Jet Aviation employee, please apply through JA SuccessFactors under Careers.
* The remuneration package will be determined according to the successful candidate’s qualifications and experience, in accordance with the applicable enterprise agreement. Relocation assistance may be available, subject to eligibility, approval, and applicable terms and conditions. Visa sponsorship may be considered only for the selected successful international candidate and remains subject to business requirements and all relevant immigration, legal, regulatory, licensing, and organisational requirements.
Pre-Employment Requirements
As part of the selection process, applicants may be required to complete and satisfy, at Jet Aviation’s discretion, some or all of the following:
- Proof of work entitlements and right to work in New Zealand.
- Pre-employment medical assessment, including functional capacity and drug and alcohol testing.
- Criminal history check.
- New Zealand Defence security vetting.
- Practical, numeracy, literacy, and computer skills assessments.
- Verification of qualifications, licensing, and previous experience.