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Royal Fleet Auxiliary Service

How far could a career with the RFA take you? Anywhere around the world- and at any time. Unlike a commercial shipping company you never know where your next destination will be, no foreign land or port is out of the question because the RFA is responsible for supporting the Royal Navy, keeping them replenished wit everything they use-fuel, food, supplies and ammunition. Or you could be delivering vital humanitarian aid wherever it is needed following conflict or natural disaster.

If you can picture yourself on the bridge of a ship, taking responsibility for the engine room or overseeing the efficiency of all the electrical systems on board, you may have what it takes to become an Office Cadet. Whether you choose Engineering or Deck, you must be aged between 16 and23 and possess a minimum of 5 GCSE (or equivalent) passes at grade C or above, including English and either a Dual Science or Physics-Maths must be a grade B. If you have A levels (including Math or Physics) you may b exempt from some courses work and will start on a higher pay scale.

The 3 year cadetship includes study at a nautical college in the UK and practical service with our fleet. On successful completion you will have achieved an HND in either Marine Engineering or Nautical Science and your first Certificate of Competency, which means you’ll be ready t keep watch in the engine room or on the bridge. From here, your prospects are great- with ongoing training and the practical support to let you truly realise your ambitions.

With lower academic qualifications there are career opportunities as ratings in Catering, Communications, Desk or Engineering which include full training to NVQ Level 2, and all positions offer a competitive salary and benefits. Find out more by visiting the RFA Website www.rfa.mod.uk or by contacting the recruiting office on 023 9272 5923. E mail address rfarecruit@gnet.gov.uk

CAREERS AT SEA WITH THE ROYAL FLEET AUXILARY SERVICE

What is the Royal Fleet Auxiliary?

The RFA is a civilian manned fleet of 20 ships and our primary role is to supply the Royal Navy at sea with the food, fuel, ammunition and spares that it needs to maintain operations at any time, anywhere in the World. Other tasks include transporting troops or delivering vital humanitarian aid following conflict or natural disaster.

What career/training opportunities can we offer?

Something for everyone! We recruit trainee ratings in Deck, Engineering, and Communications for those interested in a career in catering there are openings for cooks and stewards. All specialisation include training to NVQ Level 2, beginning with a course at a recognised college and followed with practical learning at sea.

Young people with a minimum of 5 good GCSE passes including a ‘B’ in Maths and a ‘C’ in both English and Physics (or Dual Science) may be able to join as Officer Cadets. This involves three years of training, divided between sea time and study at a nautical college in the UK. On completion they will have achieved an HND in either Nautical Science or Marine Engineering and the title of Third Officer with serious responsibilities which include keeping watch on the bridge or in the engine room. The support does not end here- further studying will be encouraged and promotion prospects re good.

Why would you want to work for the RFA?

The RFA offers ‘A life less ordinary’ for practical individuals with initiative, which enjoys a challenge and would relish the opportunity to travel around the world. The salary and leave entitlement is highly competitive combining all the benefits of a merchant shipping organisation with a true vocation and the excitement of supporting military operations.