RAF officer

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job by applying directly.

Entry requirements:

Entry requirements:

Entry requirements:

DirectApplication

You can apply directly for roles as an RAF officer .

You'll need a minimum of:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including English and maths, and a science for some roles
• 2 A levels or equivalent qualifications

If your application is accepted, you'll be invited to talk to an adviser at your local armed forces careers office about what you want to do. You'll also take an aptitude test.

If you're successful, you'll be invited to attend the Officers and Aircrew Selection Centre at RAF College, Cranwell in Lincolnshire. You'll take part in a one-day selection process which includes tests for aptitude, initiative and fitness. You'll then have an interview and a medical examination.

RAF Reserve

You can join the RAF Reserve in some roles as a part-time officer. This will give you experience of what life is like in the Royal Air Force, and you'll learn new skills at the same time.

You'll need to:

• be between 18 and 54
• commit to at least 27 days a year
• attend a 2-week residential training course each year, though this may not always be the case

Air Cadets

If you're between 13 and 17 years old, you can join the Air Cadets .

The skills you learn and experiences you gain will benefit you whatever career path you choose. Cadets have many opportunities, including UK and overseas camps, leadership courses and air experience flights.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Skills:

• leadership skills to manage and motivate teams
• excellent verbal communication skills
• thinking and reasoning skills for making quick decisions
• persistence and determination
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• concentration skills
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• the ability to work well with others
• knowledge of public safety and security
• customer service skills
• legal knowledge including court procedures and government regulations
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of psychology
• knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses
• the ability to monitor your own performance and that of your colleagues
• active listening skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• the ability to understand people’s reactions
• the ability to organise your time and workload
• a good memory

What you'll do:

RAF officers work in a number of roles and are responsible for the welfare and discipline of personnel under their command.

As an RAF officer, your duties will depend on your job.

You could:

• fly fixed-wing aircraft or helicopters
• manage services like catering or logistics
• make sure aircraft are armed and ready to take off
• monitor cyberspace for threats
• make sure airfields are secure

Location : You could work at a military base or in a warzone.
Environment : Your working environment may be outdoors in all weathers and physically and emotionally demanding.

Salary:

Starter : £31,000
Experienced : £48,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

0 - 0 hours variable

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends / bank holidays away from home

Career Path:

With experience, you could move up the ranks from flying officer to air commodore or higher.

You could go into a wide range of careers once you leave the RAF. Your career choices will depend on the skills, training and qualifications you've gained during your service.

You can find details about support and career opportunities from:

• Quest
• Career Transition Partnership
• Forces Employment Charity
• Get Into Teaching