RAF Recruitment | Career Progression

CAREER

PROGRESSION

RAF Air Operations Specialist wearing headset interacting with Air Traffic Control screens and equipment

Whether you join as an apprentice or you’re established in your career, the RAF can help you continue to develop and grow.

ROLE STRUCTURE

& PROMOTION

Role levels in the RAF

The RAF is built on a highly effective management structure; everyone has a role and rank. Individual rank defines the level of responsibility within the role.

Rank structure

You’ll come under one of three rank structures - Commissioned Officer, Non-Commissioned Aircrew or Enlisted Aviator.

Commissioned Officer

RAF Officers command and lead the organisation. Officers set the example, encourage achievement and are adaptable and innovative. The rank structure in descending order is:

Ranks:

Air Chief Marshal
Air Marshal
Air Vice Marshal
Air Commodore
Group Captain
Wing Commander
Squadron Leader
Flight Lieutenant
Flying Officer
Pilot Officer

Other ranks

Enlisted Aviators make up the majority of the RAF and are vital in providing specialist skills in many roles, gaining leadership and management experience as they progress through the rank structure. The rank structure in descending order is:

Ranks:

Warrant Officer
Flight Sergeant
Chief Technician (Technical Trades Only)
Sergeant
Corporal
Lance Corporal (Regt Gunner Only)
Air Specialist (class 1) Technician (AS1(T)) (Technical roles only)
Air Specialist (Class 1) (AS1)
Air Specialist (Class 2)(AS2)
Air Recruit (AR)

Non-Commissioned Aircrew

You’ll work onboard aircraft and helicopters helping to carry out air patrols over the UK. The rank structure in descending order is:

Ranks:

Master Aircrew
Flight Sergeant (Aircrew)
Sergeant (Aircrew)

Job levels in the civilian world can vary from company to company - in the RAF it’s easy to see what your next step is.

Source: Guardian Business Weekly

RAF Driver and RAF Supplier in yellow airport truck, elbow out of open window

BECOME AN EXPERT

IN YOUR FIELD

Role training

Whether a Chef, Engineer or a Pilot, you’ll receive plenty of training to help you do your role effectively and with confidence.

Training opportunities

No matter what role you take on you will always receive basic training first to get you accustomed to military life. Next you’ll take on specialist training, tailor made for your choice of role and training will continue throughout your career to help you progress. Many roles also offer award-winning apprenticeships that are recognised in the wider world, giving you valuable skills for life, wherever you use them.

Striving for excellence

Our reputation in combat and peacekeeping operations is second to none and the technology we use is some of the most advanced in the world. The work we do is vital; it demands high standards and brings great rewards.

Learning from each other

You’ll be working alongside people with diverse interests and backgrounds. Through living, training, and working closely together you’ll be able to learn from, and support one another. Throughout your career you’ll continue to grow professionally and personally, whilst making lifelong friends.