What will you do?
1. Provide specialised ground support equipment for RAF missions
2. Travel the world helping to support all RAF operations in peace and war
3. Maintain state-of-the-art equipment, from hydraulic rigs, to medical and dental equipment
4. You’ll be employed in specialist engineering workshops where you’ll carry out equipment servicing, investigate faults, and make repairs
5. You could be called upon to install temporary electrical installations into mobile forward operating bases
Minimum Education Requirements
6. GCSE grade C/4 or Scottish National 5 grade C in English language, Mathematics and an approved Science/Technology-based subject.
Minimum Education Requirements
7. GCSE grade C/4 or Scottish National 5 grade C in English language, Mathematics and an approved Science/Technology-based subject.
8. Level 3 Qualification in an Electrical Engineering discipline with relevant experience.
Requirements
9. Be aged 16 – 47 years old (Must attest before 48th birthday)
10. You must be a citizen of the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland, holder of dual UK/other nationality or have been a Commonwealth citizen since birth (with ‘right to work’ immigration status)
11. Commit to minimum 3 years post specialist training
12. Pass the
13. Pass a fitness test
Requirements
14. Be aged 18-54 Applicants must apply no later than age 54 and 9 months in order to attest before 55th birthday Ex-Regulars and specialist entrants may be considered on a case by case basis
15. Be a citizen of the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland, holder of dual UK/other nationality or have been a Commonwealth citizen since birth (with indefinite leave to remain immigration status)
16. Commit 27 days per year
17. Pass a
Apprenticeships available The RAF is one of the largest providers of diverse apprenticeships in the UK. We offer these apprenticeships for this role: Level 3 Engineering Technician - Mechatronics Maintenance Technician (Electrical) Engineering Technicians in the Aerospace, Aviation, Automotive, Maritime Defence and wider Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Sector are predominantly involved in highly skilled, complex work and must, as a minimum be able to: Apply safe systems of workingMake a technical contribution to either the design, development, quality assurance, manufacture, installation, commissioning, decommissioning, operation or maintenance of products, equipment, systems, processes or services Reserve role locations Reserve roles exist in specific reserve squadrons, which in turn are located at specific RAF bases. As you will not be resident at those bases (except on multi-day operations or exercises), geographic proximity to where you live is important. These are the bases where this role is active: 502 Sqn, JHFS Aldergrove, Co Antrim 504 Sqn, RAF Wittering, Cambridgeshire 606 Sqn, RAF Benson, Oxon 607 Sqn, RAF Leeming, North Yorkshire 611 Sqn, RAF Woodvale, Merseyside 614 Sqn, Cardiff CAREER, TRAINING & EDUCATION At any level or position your personal success is vital to make us succeed too. We are dedicated to your future, as it is essential to ours. You will receive basic and specialist training in your field and we even provide the option to pay for your education. The experience you gain with the RAF will equip you to work at the top of your field, both in the UK and overseas. 01 Phase one training Basic Recruit Training 10 weeks RAF Halton You’ll complete the Basic Recruit Training Course at the RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire. 10 weeks RAF Halton Phase one training
This will help you to adjust to military life. Along with fitness and military training, you’ll learn about the RAF lifestyle.
02 Phase two training Foundation Engineering Training 16 weeks RAF Cosford The next step is a foundation engineering training at RAF Cosford. You will be enrolled on an Advanced Apprenticeship. 16 weeks RAF Cosford Phase two training
A team of RAF and Civilian Instructors will teach you mechanical engineering principles alongside trainees from other specialisations in the Engineering Profession.
03 Phase two training Specialisation Training 44 weeks MOD Lyneham You will then put the theory into practice when learning how to service and repair a vast range of equipment. 44 weeks MOD Lyneham Phase two training
Your specialist training, along with the experience you gain on the job, should lead to the award of an Advanced Apprenticeship Level 3 Engineering Technician - Mechatronics Maintenance Technician (Electrical).
On successful completion of this training course, you will receive your first posting.
04 Additional qualifications Ongoing development Ongoing As assigned As your career progresses, we will continue to train you in new skills, and you will develop fault diagnosis techniques. Ongoing As assigned Additional qualifications
You may be posted to a specialist area of employment such as medical and dental equipment, Air Defence Radar systems or photographic equipment.
There are also opportunities to gain a degree with the foundation degree BEng program in either General Engineering or Engineering Management and also opportunities for management and leadership training; in addition, the qualifications and experience you will gain in your RAF career can be used to meet the joining criteria for civilian professional associations to attain EngTech, IEng or CEng.
05 Your first tour Ongoing training Ongoing As assigned For your first tour, you will be posted to an RAF station where you will work on a wide range of airfield support equipment in an electrical maintenance bay. Ongoing As assigned Your first tour
You will inspect and service all kinds of engine-driven equipment and the vehicles and equipment used in ‘life support’ to aircraft handling.
You could also assist experienced technicians in more complex repair tasks, using test apparatus to diagnose electrical system faults. You will have a key role in supporting the station’s mission and you will form part of a professional team.
06 Ongoing training Ongoing develpment Ongoing As assigned After completing one year’s total service, you will be eligible for promotion to Air Specialist (Class 1), providing you pass a Trade Ability Test and Basic Trade Training. Ongoing As assigned Ongoing training
Further promotion to the rank of Corporal and beyond is by competitive selection. As you gain experience and complete your Advanced Apprenticeship, you will achieve Technician status.
As you advance through the ranks, you will have the increased opportunity to lead and direct people, managing resources and manpower within your area of work to deliver the required outputs whilst maintaining and instilling the highest standards expected within the RAF.
07 Transferable skills Ongoing development Ongoing As assigned The qualifications, experience, and skill-sets that you develop as a specialist Electrical Technician are as highly regarded in the wider world as they are in the RAF. Ongoing As assigned Transferable skills
Your role with us will place you in good stead for a wide range of employment fields wherever your future path takes you.
prevnext CAREER, TRAINING & EDUCATION At any level or position your personal success is vital to make us succeed too. We are dedicated to your future, as it is essential to ours. You will receive basic and specialist training in your field and we even provide the option to pay for your education. The experience you gain with the RAF will equip you to work at the top of your field, both in the UK and overseas. 01 Phase one training Basic Recruit Training 23 days (split) RAF Halton Your first steps with us will be your Basic Recruit Training Course (BRTC). 23 days (split) RAF Halton Phase one training
This will take place over 4 weekends at your chosen RAF Reserves Squadron, followed by a 15-day residential training course at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire. This should be completed within your first year in RAF reserves.
Throughout your training you’ll become prepared for service life in one of the most respected military forces in the world. As well as military training you’ll learn about the core values, code of conduct, and history of the RAF as well as its unique lifestyle.
02 Phase two training Specialist Training One week RAF Benson The next step is a specialist training course (Basic Trade Training (BTT)) at RAF Benson in Oxfordshire, which lasts for one week. One week RAF Benson Phase two training
You’ll now be trained for your specific role with us, either at your squadron or another RAF station in the UK.
03 Commitment Your commitment Ongoing As assigned We ask that you commit to a minimum of 27 days each year with us. This will mean you can get the most out of your role as a Reserve and provide value to us. Ongoing As assigned Commitment
Each year includes a 15-day block for general RAF training, and 12 separate days for extra training or exercises. You could also be deployed to a UK or overseas base for up to 6 months after your first year with us.
04 Ongoing development Ongoing training Ongoing As assigned You will have valuable personal development opportunities together with the chance to work around the world, gaining unique experiences in the process. Ongoing As assigned Ongoing development
As well as RAF training packages and courses linked to outside professional bodies, we actively support individual study programmes at every level.
05 Transferable skills Ongoing training Ongoing As assigned Much of our in-house training is accredited or recognised by external awarding bodies. Ongoing As assigned Transferable skills
The skills you learn with us as a Reserve will complement those that you use in the wider world, providing value at work and at home too.
prevnext WHY JOIN THE RAF?
Thanks to subsidised food, travel, accommodation and free gym you get more money in your pocket.
Rent from £75p/m Free gym Subsidised food Health care World travel Training WHY JOIN THE RAF?
The skills you acquire as a Reserve won’t just prepare you for the RAF, they will enhance your work and civilian life.
You might be called up to assist with our operations worldwide for up to six months, during which you may be able to claim a pay award to cover your and your employer’s costs.
Training Free gym Subsidised food Paid pension Paid holiday COMMITMENT AND LOCATION
You will have to commit to 27 days per year for 12 years minimum. Each year includes a 15-day block for general RAF training, and 12 separate days for extra training or exercises.
You might be deployed to a UK or overseas base for up to 6 months after the first year.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER APPLYING Joining the RAF as a Reserve takes several steps. Below is an overview of the process. The purpose of this process is for us to gauge whether you’re the right person for the RAF and for you to show us all of your skills and experiences that have made you who you are. 1 Aptitude test 2 Selection Interview 3 Health Assessment 4 Fitness Test 5 Acceptance 6 Training 1 Aptitude test Stage 1 of 6
The aptitude test has been designed to ensure you’re a good fit for the role you’re applying for. You’ll answer seven multiple choice sections which each focus on a different skill:
18. Verbal reasoning - use and interpretation of written information
19. Numerical reasoning - ability with basic fractions, decimals and formulae
20. Work rate - speed and accuracy of tasks
21. Spatial reasoning - how shapes and objects work
22. Electrical comprehension - working with electrical concepts
23. Mechanical comprehension - grasp of mechanical concepts
24. Memory - Ability to remember information accurately
Click to find out more about the Defence Aptitude Assessment (DAA) and try the online practice test.
2 Selection Interview Stage 2 of 6
Here’s where we get to know you a little better. You’ll get to showcase your skills and experience, and we’ll answer any questions you have about joining us. Your interview will take place at a local AFCO and cover the following topics:
25. Family life
26. Education
27. Work experience
28. Special interests and hobbies
29. Interest in the RAF
30. Training
31. The role you’ve applied for
32. The RAF
You’ll be asked a series of standard questions, and you’ll be able to ask your own questions during the debrief afterwards.
3 Health Assessment Stage 3 of 6
You’re legally required to meet certain medical standards, and must pass an occupational health assessment to show you’re fit for military duty. As part of this assessment we will check your overall health, focusing on areas like hearing, eyesight and body mass index.
We’ll also investigate any past illnesses and screen for health issues that may prevent you from carrying out your role. Please refer to entry requirements below for more information about the health standards you’ll need to meet.
4 Fitness Test Stage 4 of 6
A good level of fitness is critical to joining the RAF, it’s also something that must be maintained throughout your career. You’ll need to complete a Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFC). This will take place at a local gym, and includes a 2.4km run, push up test and a sit-up test.
The performance level you’ll need to meet differs by age and gender. Please refer to the entry requirements below for more information about the health standards you’ll need to meet. You can also find help, and a training plan, to assist you in your preparation .
5 Acceptance Stage 5 of 6
Once you’ve successfully completed each phase of the application process you’ll be invited to a provisional offer of service interview at your nearest AFCO.
This is to ensure that you understand the terms and conditions of service in the RAF, are fully committed to joining, and prepared to commence training.
6 Training Stage 6 of 6
Basic Recruit Training
This takes place over 10 weeks at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire. It will make you fitter and more confident. It will challenge you mentally and physically, and it will prepare you for your career with us. There are 6 phases:
33. Arrival - You’ll be sworn into the RAF and be given a service number
34. General Service training - You’ll learn about marching, drills, core values and our code of conduct
35. Initial Force Protection training - Fighting and survival in a military environment
36. Exercise Blue Warrior - 4 days in the field with real battle conditions
37. Force development training - Apply your skills in new environments with adventurous training activities
38. Graduation - Learn about what’s required in your first post and display your new skills
What next?
Now you’re a fully-fledged member of the RAF you can receive role specific training.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER APPLYING Joining the RAF as a Reserve takes several steps. Below is an overview of the process. The purpose of this process is for us to gauge whether you’re the right person for the RAF and for you to show us all of your skills and experiences that have made you who you are. 1 Squadron information day 2 Selection interview 3 Health assessment 4 Fitness test 5 Acceptance 6 Training 1 Squadron information day Stage 1 of 6
The first step in the application process requires you to attend a squadron information day. This is a chance for you to visit the squadron of your choice and ask questions. You’ll get to see what life is like in the RAF Reserves and learn about the trade you’re interested in.
2 Selection interview Stage 2 of 6
Here’s where we get to know you a little better. You’ll get to showcase your skills and experience, and we’ll answer any questions you have about joining us. Your interview will cover the following topics:
39. Education
40. Employment
41. Interest and motivation for joining the RAF Reserves
42. Military awareness and Service Knowledge
You’ll be asked a series of standard questions, and you’ll be able to ask your own questions during the debrief afterwards. Some roles require a second interview and/ or test to determine your suitability.
These are normally conducted over a 1-3 day period at an RAF base where you’ll be able to see, and experience, the kind of environment you’ll be working in. Details about which interviews are relevant for you will be provided during the application process.
3 Health assessment Stage 3 of 6
You’re legally required to meet certain medical standards, and must pass an occupational health assessment to show you’re fit for military duty. As part of this assessment we will check your overall health, focusing on areas like hearing, eyesight and body mass index.
We’ll also investigate any past illnesses and screen for health issues that may prevent you from carrying out your role. Please refer to entry requirements below for more information about the health standards you’ll need to meet.
4 Fitness test Stage 4 of 6
A good level of fitness is critical to joining the RAF, it’s also something that must be maintained throughout your career. You’ll need to complete a Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFT). This will take place at a local gym, and includes a 2.4km run, push up test and a sit-up test.
The performance level you’ll need to meet differs by age and gender. Please refer to the entry requirements below for more information about the health standards you’ll need to meet. You can also find help, and a training plan, to assist you in your preparation .
5 Acceptance Stage 5 of 6
If you’ve successfully completed each phase of the application process, you will be invited to attest into the RAF Reserves at your chosen Squadron.
6 Training Stage 6 of 6
Basic Recruit Training
Basic recruit training takes place at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire over a 15-day period. This residential course includes an introduction to life in the RAF Reserves, military skills training, drills, field training, and team-building exercises.
What’s next?
After basic recruit training, you will go on to receive role specific training in your spare time.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Must be aged 16 – 47 years old (Must attest before 48th birthday).
Applicants must also read all of the sections below and make sure they meet all entry requirements before submitting an application.
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
Have these minimum grades:
GCSE pre–2017 GCSE 2017 onwards Scottish National 5 Mathematics CGrade 4C English Language CGrade 4C Science or Technology CGrade 4C
find a list of the approved subjects
.
NATIONALITY & RESIDENCY NATIONALITY You must be a citizen of the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland, holder of dual UK/other nationality or have been a Commonwealth citizen since birth (with ‘right to work’ immigration status). RESIDENCY Whether or not you were born in the United Kingdom, you should have resided there for the 5 years immediately preceding your application, but candidates with a minimum of 3 years may be considered. If you have resided abroad for a period due to work or study, you may still be eligible on a case by case basis. FITNESS REQUIREMENTS
You must be physically fit to complete both initial and specialist training, and to do your role effectively.
As part of the application process you will need to do the Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFT), which takes place at a fitness centre local to you.