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ELECTRICIAN
Currently recruiting
Building & fixing things Aircraft Travelling the world
INITIAL ANNUAL PAY
£25,200+
+ Benefits

As an Electrician, you will be in charge of keeping the RAF fully powered. You’ll be essential in ensuring RAF aircraft are able to take off and complete their missions safely by maintaining and repairing the wide range of ground-based electric equipment used on RAF bases and whilst doing this you will become a world-class electrician.

This role is an Enlisted Aviator role. In the application form you will need to select the Other Ranks option.

 

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?
  • Provide specialised ground support equipment for RAF missions
  • Travel the world helping to support all RAF operations in peace and war
  • Maintain state-of-the-art equipment, from hydraulic rigs, to medical and dental equipment
  • You’ll be employed in specialist engineering workshops where you’ll carry out equipment servicing, investigate faults, and make repairs
  • You could be called upon to install temporary electrical installations into mobile forward operating bases
  • You could move jobs every 3-5 years as part of your ‘through service career management’
Currently recruiting
Building & fixing things Aircraft Travelling the world
DAY RATE STARTS AT:
£63.27
+ Benefits

As an Electrician, you will be in charge of keeping the RAF fully powered. You’ll be essential in ensuring RAF aircraft are able to take off and complete their missions safely by maintaining and repairing the wide range of ground-based electric equipment used on RAF bases and whilst doing this you will become a world-class electrician.

 

This role is an Enlisted Aviator role. In the application form you will need to select the Other Ranks option.

 

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?
  • Provide specialised ground support equipment for RAF missions
  • Travel the world helping to support all RAF operations in peace and war
  • Maintain state-of-the-art equipment, from hydraulic rigs, to medical and dental equipment
  • You’ll be employed in specialist engineering workshops where you’ll carry out equipment servicing, investigate faults, and make repairs
  • You could be called upon to install temporary electrical installations into mobile forward operating bases
Minimum Education Requirements
  • GCSE grade C/4 or Scottish National 5 grade C in English language, Mathematics and an approved Science/Technology-based subject.
Minimum Education Requirements
  • GCSE grade C/4 or Scottish National 5 grade C in English language, Mathematics and an approved Science/Technology-based subject.
  • Level 3 Qualification in an Electrical Engineering discipline with relevant experience.
Requirements
  • Be aged 16 – 47 years old (Must attest before 48th birthday) 
  • 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)
  • Commit to minimum 3 years post specialist training 
  • Pass the Defence Aptitude Assessment
  • Pass a fitness test

 

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 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)
  • Commit 27 days per year
  • Pass a General Fitness Test

 

View all entry requirements >

Apprenticeships
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)
Doing an RAF apprenticeship means you can gain a professional qualification that’s recognised in the civilian world, and you’ll also have a guaranteed job in your chosen role once you’ve completed it.
View full details up-arrow icon indicating link opens in new window
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
2622 Sqn (Highland), RAF Lossiemouth, Moray
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
white stopwatch icon for duration 10 weeks
white map-pin icon for location RAF Halton
You’ll complete the Basic Recruit Training Course at the RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire.
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02
Phase two training
Foundation Engineering Training
white stopwatch icon for duration 16 weeks
white map-pin icon for location RAF Cosford
The next step is a foundation engineering training at RAF Cosford. You will be enrolled on an Advanced Apprenticeship.
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03
Phase two training
Specialisation Training
white stopwatch icon for duration 44 weeks
white map-pin icon for location MOD Lyneham
You will then put the theory into practice when learning how to service and repair a vast range of equipment.
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04
Additional qualifications
Ongoing development
white stopwatch icon for duration Ongoing
white map-pin icon for location As assigned
As your career progresses, we will continue to train you in new skills, and you will develop fault diagnosis techniques.
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05
Your first tour
Ongoing training
white stopwatch icon for duration Ongoing
white map-pin icon for location 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.
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06
Ongoing training
Ongoing development
white stopwatch icon for duration Ongoing
white map-pin icon for location 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.
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07
Transferable skills
Ongoing development
white stopwatch icon for duration Ongoing
white map-pin icon for location 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.
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TRAINING AND
CAREER
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
white stopwatch icon for duration 23 days (split)
white map-pin icon for location RAF Halton
Your first steps with us will be your Basic Recruit Training Course (BRTC).
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02
Phase two training
Specialist training
white stopwatch icon for duration Ongoing
white map-pin icon for location As assigned
The next step is a specialist training course (Basic Trade Training (BTT)) at RAF Benson in Oxfordshire, which lasts for one week.
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03
Commitment
Your commitment
white stopwatch icon for duration Ongoing
white map-pin icon for location 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.
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04
Ongoing development
Ongoing training
white stopwatch icon for duration Ongoing
white map-pin icon for location As assigned
You will have valuable personal development opportunities together with the chance to work around the world, gaining unique experiences in the process.
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05
Transferrable skills
Ongoing training
white stopwatch icon for duration Ongoing
white map-pin icon for location As assigned
Much of our in-house training is accredited or recognised by external awarding bodies.
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WHY JOIN
THE RAF?

Thanks to subsidised food, travel, accommodation and free gym you get more money in your pocket.

Benefits icon for Rent from £75p/m
Rent from £75p/m
Benefits icon for Free gym
Free gym
Benefits icon for Subsidised food
Subsidised food
Benefits icon for Health care
Health care
Benefits icon for World travel
World travel
Benefits icon for Training
Training
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.

Benefits icon for Training
Training
Benefits icon for Free gym
Free gym
Benefits icon for Subsidised food
Subsidised food
Benefits icon for Paid pension
Paid pension
Benefits icon for Paid holiday
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 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:

  • 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

Click here 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:

  • Family life
  • Education
  • Work experience
  • Special interests and 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.

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 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.

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:

  • 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.
1
Squadron information event
2
Selection interview
3
Health assessment
4
Fitness test
5
Acceptance
6
Training
1
Squadron information event
Stage 1 of 6

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.

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:

  • 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.

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 near to you, 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 here.

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 C Grade 4 C
English Language C Grade 4 C
Science or Technology C Grade 4 C

find a list of the approved subjects here

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

Secondary school students are advised to study Physics, either by itself or as part of combined science, if they are interested in a technical trade in the RAF.

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. Please continue this registration and proceed to your full application.

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 pre-2017 GCSE 2017 onwards Scottish National 5
Mathematics C Grade 4 C
English Language C Grade 4 C
Science or Technology C Grade 4 C

find a list of the approved subjects here

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

Level 3 Qualification in an Electrical Engineering discipline with relevant experience.

(If you do not hold a qualification in an approved Science or Technology-based subject, you can still apply as a qualified General Technician Electrical provided you have the required Level 3 in Electrical Engineering, English Language and Mathematics grades.)

Further information and advice is available from your local AFCO or RAuxAF Squadron.

NATIONALITY & RESIDENCY

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 indefinite leave to remain immigration status).

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.

Commonwealth citizens require a minimum of 5 years residency in the UK prior to application.

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 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

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.
RAF Electrician running tests on mobile generator
APPLY
NOW
Got what it takes? Start your application here.
RAF Electrician running tests on mobile generator
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