RAF Recruitment | Air & Space Operations Specialist (Flight Operations)

AIR & SPACE OPERATIONS

SPECIALIST

Regular

CURRENTLY RECRUITING

Gaming & computers Analysis & maths Travelling the world

INITIAL ANNUAL PAY

£25,200+

+ Benefits

As an RAF Air & Space Operations Specialist you will support aircrew, Air Operations Controllers and Air Operations (Systems) Officers to facilitate the successful planning and execution of flights and missions, both in the UK and on worldwide operations.

Apply as a Regular

Add to favourites

Don't limit yourself. You can apply for more than one position and we can help you find the right role.

You can view and manage favourites here.

Already applied? See what the next steps in the application process are below.

What will you do?

Air & Space Operations Specialists (ASOS) work across 3 Employment Pillars; Air Operations Support, Air Operations Systems and Space Operations providing specialist skills across a variety of Employment Areas. Typical responsibilities include:

The coordination of airspace for military and civilian aircraft
Monitoring and identifying all aircraft within UK airspace including assisting in the scrambling of Quick Reaction Alert Typhoon jets
Keeping watch for foreign missile launches and monitoring foreign surveillance satellites
Management of aircraft mission planning systems and aeronautical data

Currently recruiting

Gaming & computers Analysis & maths Travelling the world

DAY RATES START AT:

£63.27

+ BENEFITS

Apply as a Reserve

Add to favourites

Don't limit yourself. You can apply for more than one position and we can help you find the right role.

You can view and manage favourites here.

Already applied? See what the next steps in the application process are below.

What will you do as a Reserve?

Air & Space Operations Specialists (Flight Operations) provide direct support to aircrew, Operations Managers and air traffic control in a variety of roles. In support of aircrew, you could be employed in a squadron operations room, responsible for maintaining aeronautical information, operating the mission support IT used by aircrew, managing airspace bookings; all of which are critical to the safe and expeditious conduct of the mission.

You could also be required to operate ground to air radio equipment and provide specialist knowledge and advice during the mission planning stages of flights.

Alternatively you could be employed in station operations and flight planning.

Minimum Education Requirements

As a minimum, you will need GCSEs at Grade C/4 or Scottish National 5 at Grade C in English and Mathematics/Application of Maths.

Minimum Education Requirements

Have GCSEs at Grade C/4 or Scottish National 5 at Grade C in English Language and Mathematics.

Requirements

Be aged 16 – 47 years old (Must attest before 48th birthday)
Must be a citizen of the United Kingdom or holder of dual UK/other nationality
Commit minimum 3 years post Phase Two Training
Meet the health and fitness criteria
Pass the Defence Aptitude Assessment
Pass a Fitness test - Detail below

View all entry requirements >

Requirements

Be aged 18-54 Applicants must apply no later than age 54 and 6 months in order to attest before 55th birthday
Ex-Regulars and specialist entrants may be considered on a case by case basis
Be a UK citizen or have dual UK/other nationality
Commit 27 days per year
Pass the Defence Aptitude Assessment
Pass a General Fitness Test

View all entry requirements >

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

600 Sqn, RAF Northolt, Middlesex

602 Sqn, Glasgow, Scotland

606 Sqn, RAF Benson, Oxon

611 Sqn, RAF Woodvale, Merseyside

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.

Phase one training

Basic Recruit training

10 weeks

RAF Halton

Your career will start with the Basic Recruit Training Course (BRTC) at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire.

Phase two training

Specialist training

9 weeks

RAF Shawbury

The next step is the Air & Space Operations Specialist Course (ASOSC) at RAF Shawbury.

First tour

Specialist training

Ongoing

As assigned

This is likely to be in the core roles of airspace monitoring at the Control and Reporting Centre or Mobile Radar Unit, Air Traffic Control, Station Operations or Area Radar.

Your career prospects

Ongoing development

Ongoing

As assigned

After completing your first year of service, you will be eligible for promotion to Air Specialist (Class 1) provided you pass specialisation training and Profession Workplace Assessment.

Continued development

Ongoing training

Ongoing

As assigned

You will undertake annual Continuous Professional Development (CPD) to ensure you build on your specialisation and Service knowledge.

Transferable skills

Ongoing training

Ongoing

As assigned

Service as an Air & Space Operations Specialist (ASOS) will develop your resilience and personal skills such as problem solving, team work and communication.

CAREER, TRAINING

& EDUCATION

As a reserve member of the RAF you are a valued and important member of the force. Your personal success is vital to make us succeed too and we believe training is an essential foundation to this. You will receive basic training, and specialist training in your field to prepare you for your role with us.

Phase one training

Basic Recruit training

23 days (split)

RAF Halton

Your first steps with us will be your Basic Recruit Training Course (BRTC).

Phase two training

Specialist training

3 weeks (split)

RAF Shawbury

Your specialist training is split into two phases. Part 1 is a theory phase and part 2 is a practical phase.

Commitment

Your commitment to us

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, progress and provide value to us.

Ongoing development

Further development

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.

Transferable skills

Skills

Ongoing

As assigned

Much of our in-house training is accredited or recognised by external awarding bodies.

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

View all benefits

WHY JOIN

THE RESERVES?

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

View all benefits

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.

Female and male Cyberspace Communication specialists inspecting network traffic

WHAT HAPPENS

AFTER APPLYING

Joining the RAF 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.

Aptitude test

Selection Interviews

Health Assessment

Fitness Test

Acceptance

Training

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:

Verbal reasoning – use and interpretation of written information
Numerical reasoning – ability with basic fractions, decimals and formulae
Work rate – speed and accuracy of tasks
Spatial reasoning – how shapes and objects work
Electrical comprehension – working with electrical concepts
Mechanical comprehension – grasp of mechanical concepts
Memory – ability to remember information accurately

You can try the online practice test here.

Selection Interviews

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:

Family life
Education
Work experience
Special interests or hobbies
Interest in the RAF
Training
The role you’ve applied for
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.

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.

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.

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 is a 2.4km run.

The performance level you’ll need to meet differs by age and gender. You can also find help, and a training plan, to assist you in your preparation here.

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.

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.

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:

Arrival - You’ll be sworn into the RAF and be given a service number
General Service training - You’ll learn about marching, drills, core values and our code of conduct
Initial Force Protection training - Fighting and survival in a military environment
Exercise Blue Warrior - 4 days in the field with real battle conditions
Force development training - Apply your skills in new environments with adventurous training activities
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.

Squadron information event

Aptitude test

Selection interview

Health assessment

Fitness test

Acceptance

Training

Squadron information event

Stage 1 of 7

The first step in the application process invites you to attend a squadron information event. This could be either in person or online. At this event, there is an opportunity for you to speak to the squadron of your choice and ask questions. You will get to find out what life is like in the RAF Reserves and learn more about the specialisation you are interested in.

Aptitude test

Stage 2 of 7

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:

Verbal reasoning - use and interpretation of written information
Numerical reasoning - ability with basic fractions, decimals and formulae
Work rate - speed and accuracy of tasks
Spatial reasoning - how shapes and objects work
Electrical comprehension - working with electrical concepts
Mechanical comprehension - grasp of mechanical concepts

Click here to find out more about the Defence Aptitude Assessment (DAA) and try the online practice test.

Selection interview

Stage 3 of 7

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:

Education
Employment
Interest and motivation for joining the RAF Reserves
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.

Health assessment

Stage 4 of 7

Fitness test

Stage 5 of 7

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 here.

Acceptance

Stage 6 of 7

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.

Training

Stage 7 of 7

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

You 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 and after	Scottish national 5
Mathematics/Application of Maths	C	Grade 4	C
English Language	C	Grade 4	C

You can see what the RAF accepts in lieu of GCSEs & A Levels here.

NATIONALITY & RESIDENCY

NATIONALITY

You must be a citizen of the United Kingdom or holder of dual UK/other nationality.

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. Every candidate's fitness levels are tested as part of the application process.

The first of these is the Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFT) which takes place at a fitness centre local to you. This consists of a 2.4km (1.5m) run on a treadmill (set to zero incline)

How fit you need to be to pass this test varies on age and gender. The PJFT requirements are listed on the charts below (Male and Female).

MEN
AGE	2.4 Km Run
	(Mins)
15-16	13.52
17-29	13.20
30-34	13.49
35-39	14.14
40-44	14.46
45-49	15.17
50-54	15.53

WOMEN
AGE	2.4 Km Run
	(Mins)
15-16	16.22
17-29	15.48
30-34	16.14
35-39	16.44
40-44	17.22
45-49	17.57
50-54	18.34

See here for more information about a training plan

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS

Candidates joining the RAF must be medically fully fit, both physically and psychologically, to meet the challenges of military service, during which they will be expected to deploy, potentially at short notice, to locations world-wide that are remote from established medical care.

Certain medical conditions could preclude entry to the RAF. Further details can be found in this document .

Before your application, please note that Body Mass Index Requirements are as follows:

Age	Male and female minimum	Male and female maximum	Male maximum with additional assessment	Female maximum with additional assessment
18 +	18	30	32	32
16 to < 18	17	27	27	27

Calculate your BMI here

Eyesight requirements vary for different roles. A requirement to wear glasses or contact lenses may be allowed for aircrew.

If you are unsure about any health criteria, please continue your application and your eligibility will be assessed at the medical examination stage.

During your application, the Medical Risk Assessment that all candidates undergo is there to make sure that you are healthy enough for the intense training required by the RAF. Your application will be rejected if you fail to meet the minimum acceptable medical standard for entry. Your medical history is confidential and is not disclosed to those not authorised to hold this information.

BACKGROUND CHECKS

YOU MUST:

Declare any previous spent and unspent convictions
Check if you qualify under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 through this summary
Have a basic background check to get Security Check level clearance

DISQUALIFYING FACTORS

YOU CAN'T APPLY FOR THE RAF IF YOU:

Have been or are a member of a group that stirs up racial hatred and violence
Are waiting to appear in court, or have unspent convictions. You may also have to declare spent convictions for certain roles
Misuse drugs, solvents and anabolic steroids. But each case is considered upon its own merits
Have tattoos, brands or bead implants that are obscene or offensive.
Any permanent or temporary tattoos, whether ordinarily visible or not, must not be obscene or offensive (eg, racist, anti-religion or belief, crude, overtly sexist, homophobic, drug related or of an extreme political nature). Tattoos may be worn on the side and back of the neck but tattoos on the back of the neck must not extend above the natural hairline (scalp tattoos are not permitted).
Have body piercing which causes holes that do not close up
Declare yourself to be an 'undischarged' bankrupt

Beard Policy: A revised facial hair policy has been agreed by the Air Force Board which will allow serving personnel to wear a smart, neatly-trimmed, full-set beard whilst maintaining high standards of appearance. The length of acceptable beards is between Grade 1 (2.5mm) and Grade 8 (25.5mm). The wearing of beards during Phase 1 and Phase 2 training is currently under consideration and details will be advised when available

Must be aged 18-54. Applicants must apply no later than age 54 and 6 months in order to attest before 55th birthday. Ex-Regulars and specialist entrants may be considered on a case by case basis.

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	GCSE 2017	SNE
Mathematics	C	Grade 4	Grade 5
English Language	C	Grade 4	Grade 5

You can see what the RAF accepts in lieu of GCSEs & A Levels here.

NATIONALITY & RESIDENCY

You must be a UK citizen or have dual UK/other nationality.

Whether or not you were born in the United Kingdom, you should have resided there for the 5 years immediately preceding your application. However, candidates with a minimum of 3 years may be considered.

FITNESS REQUIREMENTS

How fit you need to be to pass this test varies on age and gender. The PJFT requirements are listed on the charts below (Male and Female).

MEN
AGE	2.4 Km Run
	(Mins)
15-16	13.52
17-29	13.20
30-34	13.49
35-39	14.14
40-44	14.46
45-49	15.17
50-54	15.53

WOMEN
AGE	2.4 Km Run
	(Mins)
15-16	16.22
17-29	15.48
30-34	16.14
35-39	16.44
40-44	17.22
45-49	17.57
50-54	18.34

See here for more information about a training plan

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS

Certain medical conditions could preclude entry to the RAF. Further details can be found in this document .

Before your application, please note that Body Mass Index Requirements are as follows:

Age	Male and female minimum	Male and female maximum	Male maximum with additional assessment	Female maximum with additional assessment
18 +	18	30	32	32
16 to < 18	17	27	27	27

Calculate your BMI here

BACKGROUND CHECKS

YOU MUST:

Declare any previous spent and unspent convictions
Check if you qualify under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 through this summary
Have a basic background check to get Security Check level clearance

DISQUALIFYING FACTORS

YOU CAN'T APPLY FOR THE RAF IF YOU:

Have been or are member of a group that stirs up racial hatred and violence
Are waiting to appear in court, or have unspent convictions. You may also have to declare spent convictions for certain roles
Misuse drugs, solvents and anabolic steroids. But each case is considered upon its own merits
Have tattoos, brands or bead implants that are obscene or offensive.
Any permanent or temporary tattoos, whether ordinarily visible or not, must not be obscene or offensive (eg, racist, anti-religion or belief, crude, overtly sexist, homophobic, drug related or of an extreme political nature). Tattoos may be worn on the side and back of the neck but tattoos on the back of the neck must not extend above the natural hairline (scalp tattoos are not permitted).
Have body piercing which causes holes that do not close up
Declare yourself to be an 'undischarged' bankrupt

If you don’t have any of the above, you might still be able to apply. For more information please contact us.

APPLY

NOW

Got what it takes? Start your application here.

Apply as a Regular