Cyberspace Communication Specialist

What will you do?

Within your role you’ll ensure that the RAF remains at the cutting edge of technological advances, essential for the RAF to be able to communicate effectively and move information around safely and securely. You’ll be part of a highly trained, and technologically skilled, workforce responsible for a wide variety of tasks:

Safeguarding our UK-based IT networks from intrusions Coordinating the RAF’s vast array of information Establishing overseas networks and equipment for Deployed Commanders and Air Traffic Services Currently recruiting Gaming & computers Building & fixing things Travelling the world Day rates start at: £46.91 + Benefits

As a Cyberspace Communications Specialist you will be responsible for the technology at the heart of the RAF. It will be your job to set up, operate and maintain the technology the RAF relies on to communicate.

What will you do as a Reserve?

Within your role you’ll ensure that the RAF remains at the cutting edge of technological advances, essential for the RAF to be able to communicate effectively and move information around safely and securely. You’ll work as part of a highly trained, and technologically skilled, workforce responsible for a wide variety of tasks; ranging anywhere from safeguarding our UK-based IT networks from intrusions, coordinating the RAF’s vast array of information, all the way to establishing overseas networks and equipment for Deployed Commanders and Air Traffic Services. The technical knowledge is challenging, but the benefits, the achievements, and the impacts are highly rewarding.

It all starts with Cyberspace Communications Specialists Find out how some of our Cyberspace Communications Specialists discovered their role and why they are crucial for all our day-to-day work. Minimum education requirements GCSE Grade C/4 or Scottish National 5 grade C in English language and Mathematics . Minimum education requirements GCSE Grade C/Grade 4 in English and Maths  Hold a minimum level 3 qualification in Telecommunications, Information Communications Technology or Cyberspace . Requirements Be aged 16 – 47 years old (Must attest before 48th birthday) Applications can be submitted from age 15 years and 9 months You must be a citizen of the United Kingdom or holder of dual UK/other nationality Commit minimum 3 years post Phase Two Training Pass the Pass a Fitness test - Details below

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Requirements Be aged 18-54 Applicants must apply no later than age 54 and 9 months in order to attest before 55th birthday Ex-Regulars and specialist entrants may be considered on a case by case basis You must be a citizen of the United Kingdom or dual UK/Other nationality Commit 27 days per year Pass the Pass a Reserve role locations Reserve roles exist in specific reserve squadrons which are located at specific RAF bases. As you won’t be living on base, it’s important that you can easily travel to the base. These are where this role is active: 502 Sqn, JHFS Aldergrove, Co Antrim 600 Sqn, RAF Northolt, Middlesex 602 Sqn, Glasgow, Scotland 614 Sqn, Cardiff Apprenticeships available The RAF is one of the largest providers of diverse apprenticeships in the UK. We offer these apprenticeships for this role: Information Communications Technician Level 3 Apprenticeship 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. 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 10 weeks RAF Halton This is shared by all our new recruits to help you adjust to military life. You’ll focus on fitness and military training while learning about the RAF lifestyle. 10 weeks RAF Halton Phase one training

Your career with us will start with a 10-week basic recruit training course at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire. This will prepare you for service life in one of the most respected military forces in the world. Whilst undertaking fitness and military training, you’ll learn about the core values, code of conduct and history of the RAF, and its unique lifestyle.

02 Phase two training Specialist training 10 months RAF Cosford This is a trade training course at No 1 Radio School, Cosford. You’ll be taught a wide range of skills and knowledge for the full range of duties you could be employed in. 10 months RAF Cosford Phase two training

You’ll study a range of subjects, including: electronic and radio principles, mathematics, Cisco Academy IT Essentials, Cisco Introduction to Networks, Microsoft Server 2K12, relational databases, programming techniques, satellite and data communications, information systems and network administration and cyber security. You’ll also be instructed in health and safety and maintenance practices and procedures. This will allow you to deploy and maintain our range of communications information networks and sensors.

03 Additional qualifications Specialist training Ongoing As assigned There is the opportunity to gain additional qualifications on top of those that you will receive in your specialist training. Ongoing As assigned Additional qualifications

The training you will have received at No 1 Radio School, Cosford, is recognised by a wide range of employers outside of the RAF and backed by transferable qualifications. During your specialist training as a Cyberspace Communication Specialist, where viable, you will be enrolled on a Information Communication Technician Apprenticeship Standard which is a Level 3 qualification. You could also gain a Foundation Degree in Computing Science from Staffordshire University.

04 First tour Specialist training 15 months As assigned Once you’ve graduated as an RAF ICT Tech you’ll be using your skills to support the RAF from the outset, wherever you are assigned to complete your first tour of duty. 15 months As assigned First tour

A first tour could see you be part of the 90 Signals Unit, which includes the RAF’s deployable expeditionary communications team who work around the globe supporting global operations. You’d be providing the cyberspace systems that enable effective communications back to the UK.

Alternatively, you could be employed on an aircraft squadron, maintaining and supporting the aircraft’s mission support system that enables the aircraft to carry out its sorties. You could be working in the Information Hub where you’ll be the first port of call for providing advice on software applications, information management and system administration, or repairing IT systems and installing software and hardware.

05 Transferable skills Ongoing development Ongoing As assigned You will always be suitably trained for the incredible breadth and diversity of roles that you could be employed in. Ongoing As assigned Transferable skills

If required, specialist training will be given in application support, web-skills, database and network management, software and application development, coding and cyberspace security.

The qualifications you can earn are as valuable in the civilian world as they are in the RAF. When added to your RAF experience, you will be in demand by any potential civilian employers.

06 Your career prospects Progression Ongoing As assigned After completing one year’s service you’ll be eligible for promotion to Air Specialist (Class 1) (AS1). Ongoing As assigned Your career prospects

Promotion will depend on you passing the Basic Trade Training and Trade Ability Tests. Following completion of the TATs, 18 months in rank and completion of the Apprenticeship, you would advance to AS1 (T). Further promotion to the rank of Corporal and beyond is on merit, by competitive selection, and will require the completion of further periods of Command and Management Training to prepare you for the demands of your new rank.

The qualifications you can earn are as valuable in the civilian world as they are in the RAF. When added to your RAF experience, you will be well placed and in demand by any potential civilian employers.

prevnext TRAINING & CAREER 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. 01 Phase one training Basic Recruit Training 23 days (split) RAF Halton Here is where you’ll become attuned to the military environment and way of life. 23 days (split) RAF Halton Phase one training

Over 4 weekends, at your chosen RAF Reserves Squadron, you’ll start your Basic Recruit Training Course (BRTC). This will be followed by a 15-day residential training course at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire. This will prepare you for service life and along with military training you’ll learn about the core values, code of conduct and history of the RAF.

02 Phase two training Specialist Training Ongoing As assigned Once you’ve successfully completed your initial training, you’ll learn more about your specific role, either at your squadron or at another RAF station in the UK. Ongoing As assigned Phase two training

Further training as needed

03 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 and provide value to us. ongoing as assigned Commitment

Each year includes a 15-day block for general RAF training, and 12 separate days for extra training or exercises. You could also be deployed to a UK or overseas base for up to 6 months after your first year with us.

04 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. ongoing as assigned Ongoing development

As well as RAF training packages and courses linked to outside professional bodies, we actively support individual study programmes at every level.

05 Transferable skills Skills ongoing as assigned Much of our in-house training is accredited or recognised by external awarding bodies. ongoing as assigned Transferable skills

The skills you learn with us as a Reserve will complement those that you use in the wider world, providing value at work and at home too.

prevnext 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 WHY JOIN THE RESERVES?

The skills you add to your arsenal won’t just prepare you for the RAF, they’ll prove valuable in your work and within the wider world.

During your time with us 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 costs, and your employer’s too.

Training Free gym Subsidised food Paid pension Paid holiday COMMITMENT AND LOCATION

To get the most value from life as a Reserve we ask you commit to 27 days every year, for a minimum of 12 years.

Each year includes a 15-day block for general RAF training, and 12 separate days for extra training or exercises. You could also be deployed to a UK or overseas base for up to 6 months after your first year with us.

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 interviews 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 2 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 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. 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 (PJFC). This will take place at a local gym, 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

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

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 Aptitude test 3 Selection interview 4 Health assessment 5 Fitness test 6 Acceptance 7 Training 1 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.

2 Aptitude test Stage 2 of 7

All Reserves take an aptitude test known as the ‘Defence Aptitude Test’ at the local squadron they have applied to, or a local AFCO in some cases. The test ensures we match the right candidate to the right role and consists of seven multiple choice sections focusing on different skills:

Verbal reasoning – tests your use and interpretation of written information Numerical reasoning – measures your ability with basic fractions, decimals and formulae Work rate – checks for fast and accurate completion of tasks Spatial reasoning – gauges your understanding of how shapes and objects work Electrical comprehension – tests your ability to work with electrical concepts Mechanical comprehension – measures your grasp of mechanical concepts 3 Selection interview Stage 3 of 7

Your Interview will cover the following topics:

Education Employment Interest and motivation for joining the RAF Reserves Military awareness and Service Knowledge 4 Health assessment Stage 4 of 7

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 will also investigate and 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.

5 Fitness test Stage 5 of 7

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. This test includes a 2.4 kilometre run, push up test, and sit up test. Visit ourfor details about the fitness level you will need to meet to pass.

6 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.

7 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) Applications can be submitted from age 15 years and 9 months.

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 CGrade 4C English Language CGrade 4C

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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.

As part of the application process you will need to do the Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFT), which takes place at a fitness centre local to you.

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