We offer a wide range of career options – with more than 50 careers to choose from.

To succeed in our missions takes more than planes and pilots – there’s a whole team of people behind every aircraft that takes to the skies. We need people to keep the planes in good condition, people to keep our bases secure, people to publicise what we do, people to transport equipment and supplies, people to train us, people to look after everyone’s health... the range of jobs you’ll find in the RAF is almost as wide as you’d find in civilian life.

Many of the jobs are not front-line fighting roles, but the RAF is an expeditionary force so, whichever career you choose, you need to be aware that there is the possibility you could be sent abroad to work in conflict situations.

With so many career paths to choose from, there’s also a range of entry requirements. So you could be any level, from a school leaver with no formal qualifications, to a qualified professional. And after you join, there are always opportunities to learn new skills, gain qualifications recognised by civilian employers, and develop your career in new directions.

Job categories

Careers in the RAF fit into one of four categories:

• Officers – these are our equivalent of senior managers or team leaders, with 20 jobs available covering a wide range of skills, for example Dental Officer, Logistics Officer or Pilot. We expect a great deal from our officers – they have to lead by example.
• Non-Commissioned Aircrew (NCA) – four flying roles.
• Airmen and airwomen – ground support roles using specialist skills. There are around three dozen different jobs to choose from, anything from medical support to aircraft maintenance, administration to logistics.
• RAF Regiment – our elite fighting force trained to protect RAF personnel, bases and high-value assets.