What graduate careers are there in the Royal Air Force?

From aircrew to engineering, communications intelligence to personnel – there are loads of areas of work within the RAF and graduate careers in abundance.

Members of the RAF are split into two categories:

Non-commissioned

Airmen and airwomen, also known as trades, provide specialist ground support. There are roles in more than 40 areas including medical support, aircraft maintenance, administration and catering.

Non-commissioned aircrew take flying roles as weapon systems operators. You could specialise in one of four areas: as a crewman or linguist, or in acoustic or electronic warfare.

Commissioned

Officers are the senior managers of the RAF, overseeing work in over 20 different areas. The selection process is more rigorous and jobs will involve more responsibility. There are a variety of roles so you can choose an area that interests you.

How do I join the RAF?

What areas can I specialise in?

Aircrew: the RAF is based around flying so it clearly needs crew for jets, helicopters and other aircraft. You could work as a pilot or in a support position.

Air operations support: if crews are to fly safely, they need support on the ground. Jobs involve air traffic control, radar operation and flight plan creation.

Catering and hospitality: it’s important to have good food and comfortable accommodation, which the catering and hospitality division provides.

Communications and intelligence: the RAF needs technical experts to operate, maintain and develop secure communications technology, as well as various experts to intercept and analyse external communications.

Engineering and technical: there’s a huge need for good technology in the RAF, so technicians can specialise in aircraft, weapons or equipment.

Force protection: the RAF needs protection too so it has its own police and fire services, as well as the special RAF Regiment to protect bases from attack.

Logistics and equipment: millions of pieces of equipment are used daily. Logistics specialists make sure it’s in the right place, at the right time and in good condition.

Medical support: health is essential for a strong force so the RAF has staff to deal with anything from emergency treatment to a dental check-up.

Personnel support: it’s important to look after the physical and mental well-being of the RAF, through spiritual guidance, legal advice, physical education, administrative assistance or even music.