Specialist Instructional Officer

Specialist Instructional Officer (SIO) Mechanical Ministry of Defence
Position attracts an additional £6000 Recruitment and Retention Allowance (reviewed annually), and Civil Service Pension with an average employer contribution of 27%
Contract type - Permanent
Working pattern - Flexible working, Full-time, Job share, Part-time, Compressed hours
Do you have a Level 3, or equivalent, engineering qualification? Join us and inspire the next generation of military mechanical engineers in a role that is as rewarding as it is exciting
Have you considered teaching in a dynamic, inclusive engineering training environment? Do you have the expertise to deliver the foundation principles of mechanical engineering within the thrilling context of the Royal Air Force’s ground engineering profession? If so, we have a fantastic opportunity for you to join a modern teaching organisation dedicated to shaping the future of Defence engineering.
You will join the Defence College of Technical Training (DCTT) and will play a vital role in developing training programs designed to transform RAF personnel into competent and inspired mechanical technicians.
The successful candidates will be responsible for the theoretical and practical instruction of Military students within the fields of Ground Support Equipment and Military Transport. Participating in internal and external evaluation audits as required in accordance with the School’s Training Procedures Manual.
• Ensuring all students are given a safety brief on their training environment and they observe relevant fire, health and safety precautions and evacuation procedures.
• Making an active contribution to the Continuous Improvement of the School and its outputs, by proactively highlighting potential improvements through the Training Squadron line management chain.
• Making ample preparations before starting an instructional period to ensuring that training areas and resources (tools, hand-outs, training aids etc.) Ensuring that any mandatory course documentation is completed within 5 working days of completing the phase in accordance with training quality manual (TQM).
• Undertake a minimum of 5 hours Continuous Professional Development (CPD) per annum to address developmental goals.
• Undertaking additional lessons for the trainees, either as Additional Trade Training (ATT) or Extra Trade Training (ETT).
• Ensuring that supervision ratios of staff to students conform to the requirements and any concerns regarding safety of students are highlighted through their chain of command.
• Monitoring student welfare and managing any concerns through the chain of command in accordance with 4SofTT Supervisory Care Directive.
• Remaining current in Instructional Techniques (IT), and personally arranging for IT and lesson Content Monitoring (CM) observations to be undertaken by Learning Support staff within the school.
• Ensuring conformity to authorised specifications, with any discrepancies highlighted via line management in accordance with Joint Services Publication (JSP) 822 - Defence Policy document.
The Ministry of Defence (MOD) offers a range of flexibilities to enable a better work-life balance for employees. Alternative Working Patterns, in accordance with policy, can be considered where it can be accommodated by the business, but there may be occasions when a presence on site during standard working hours may be required. You will be required to be both proactive and reactive, assessing the skills and knowledge within the group and determining what training is needed to grow and nurture these individuals.
Recognised experience and background mechanical engineering (for example, vehicle workshops). Familiar with mechanical engineering management practices and trade policy.
• Experience in delivery of training.
Role Specific Training:  
• Successfully shadow TG5 General Technician Mechanical (GTM) Training modules.
• This post will suit a highly motivated individual who is keen to take the initiative and influence training.
Candidates should have served an apprenticeship or a relevant period of training and have obtained a Level 3, or equivalent, engineering qualification, with practical experience in a related field.
however, the successful candidates must be prepared to complete the relevant training on appointment.
Sit a mechanical engineering trade multiple-choice examination paper from the appropriate TG5 mechanical engineering syllabus.
• Deliver a 15–20-minute presentation as a lesson on a TG5 mechanical engineering subject which will be stipulated if invited for interview.
At the Defence College of Technical Training (DCTT), we train and educate highly skilled technicians and engineers to meet the operational demands of the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force. We are at the forefront of specialised training in aeronautical engineering, electronic and mechanical engineering, nuclear and marine engineering, and communications and information systems. Our programs are designed to prepare our trainees to excel in today’s and tomorrow’s combat environments.
With four schools and 11 sub-schools spread across five locations, our dedicated team of nearly 2,500 military, civil service, and contractor staff pride ourselves on fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce. At DCTT, we value mutual respect, actively promote kindness and fairness, and are committed to ensuring a healthy work-life balance for all our team members.
We invest in your career and personal development, recognising and celebrating your efforts and dedication. By joining DCTT, you become part of a supportive community where your contributions help shape the future of defence engineering.
Alongside your salary of £28,300, an additional £6,000 Recruitment and Retention Allowance (RRA) will also be paid, therefore the total remuneration is £34,300. The RRA is subject to an annual review. MOD contributes £7,641 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Find out what benefits a Civil Service Pension provides.
• A Flexi-time scheme (on successful completion of probationary period that supports a better work-life balance).
• 25 days paid annual leave rising by 1 day per completed year of service to a maximum 30 days.
• Eight public holidays per year, plus leave for HM The King's birthday.
• Ability to roll over up to 10 days annual leave per year.
• Special Paid Leave for other volunteer duties.
• A wide range of Defence Discounts – such as Healthcare, Insurance, Motoring, company discounts with Virgin, Vodafone, and Microsoft Office to name a few. Advance of pay to purchase travel season tickets or ‘cycle to work’ scheme (upon completion of 6 months service).
• Over 60 growing staff Networks to join.
• Enhanced parental and adoption leave.
• Employee Assistance Programme to support your wellbeing.
• Free on-site gymnasium, Cardiovascular, Strength and conditioning outdoor sports facilities.
• On-site shop/cafe facilities.
• Free onsite parking.
External recruits who join the MOD who are new to the Civil Service will be subject to a six-month probation period.
Please Note: Expenses incurred for travel to interviews will not be reimbursed.
Please be advised that the Department is conducting a review of all pay related allowances which could impact on those allowances that the post currently being advertised attracts.
Any move to MOD from another employer will mean you can no longer access childcare vouchers. You may however be eligible for other government schemes, including Tax-Free Childcare. Under the Smoke-Free Working Environment policy, Smoking and the use of all tobacco products (including combustible and chewing tobacco products) will not be permitted anywhere in the Defence working environment however some exemptions are in place, please refer to local guidance. The policy is Whole Force and includes all Defence personnel, contractors, visitors and other non-MOD personnel. All applicants seeking, considering, or accepting employment with the Ministry of Defence should be aware of this policy and that it is already in place at a number of Defence Establishments.
The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity. There is a Disability Confident Scheme (DCS) for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria. If you need to advise us that you need additional help or reasonable adjustments for the recruitment process, please contact: DBSCivPers-Resourcingteam3@mod.gov.uk
Full-time