High-calibre graduates: the armed forces need you

The primary reason for the armed forces’ existence is for the defence of the nation – and they also defend Britain’s interests and dependencies. But this is far from all that they do. A huge part of their efforts is spent on keeping the peace overseas and delivering humanitarian aid, as well as providing a presence at a broad spectrum of international crises and conflicts. What with all these different responsibilities, it’s no surprise that the armed forces have a large variety of positions in all sorts of areas.

The armed forces consist of the Army, the Royal Air Force, the Royal Navy and the Royal Marines. The Royal Navy is the senior service, as it was formed first. Its officers are senior to officers of equivalent rank in the Army, who are senior to officers in the RAF. The Royal Marines are soldiers who are part of the Navy.

There is a huge range of roles available to graduates within each of the forces, including many behind-the-scenes logistical roles such as human resources, healthcare and engineering, as well as more hands-on operational roles on land, on sea or in the air.

New developments

The work of the armed forces is becoming increasingly multinational, and personnel are now working more closely with a wide variety of coalition allies, as well as representatives of civilian government and non-governmental organisations. One of the biggest changes in the next five to ten years will be the introduction of even more sophisticated technology, such as digitisation of the battlefield and Network Enabled Capability, which is expected to increase the quantity and flow of information. These changes will mean that future armed forces personnel will have to operate within a battleground that is even more complex than today’s.

Why should I join?

Excitement and plenty of outdoor activity go with the job. Plus, teamwork and camaraderie are particularly strong because of the demanding conditions many of the services find themselves in. You’ll also find a wide array of benefits available during your career with the armed forces. Some of the non-financial rewards include training, and involvement in sports and adventurous training. You can take advantage of a highly competitive salary structure where you’ll know exactly how much you will earn for the job you will be doing. It’s also worth remembering that the cost of living may be less, as the armed forces often subsidise some living expenses.

New recruits should expect to be deployed over great distances, often rapidly and unexpectedly, and for indeterminate periods. Engaging in combat operations remains the most demanding task you will face so you’ll need to be prepared and willing to fight.

The armed forces need about 25,000 new recruits every year. In return, they provide some 17–18,000 trained ex-service personnel to the UK labour market. High levels of employment means they expect to compete with other recruiters for the best candidates.

Equal opportunities

The armed forces have a wide range of initiatives to support equal opportunities, but they are exempt from legislation in some areas:

• Age – because a high level of physical fitness is needed for most roles, many positions are only open to people under 36.
• Disability – again, the fitness requirements mean that the armed forces are exempt from some disability laws.
• Gender – some positions are restricted to men, usually for medical reasons.

However, they are obliged to follow diversity guidelines in terms of sexual orientation and race, religion and ethnicity – and have outstripped requirements in many aspects.