At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive and operate a variety of vehicles, ensuring RAF personnel and equipment reach their destinations.
- Company: Join the Royal Air Force, a key player in UK defence with global operations.
- Benefits: Enjoy full training, career progression, and the chance to travel worldwide.
- Why this job: Experience a dynamic role with opportunities for leadership and personal growth.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring your enthusiasm and commitment!
- Other info: Complete an intermediate apprenticeship while serving, with potential for promotion.
An opportunity to complete an intermediate apprenticeship as an RAF Driver. You will be working with some of the most interesting vehicles in the world and play a key part in the UK's defence. With places available throughout the year, apply today!
RAF Drivers are required to drive and operate a wide range of general and specialist vehicles, from Passenger Carrying Vehicles (PCV, which include cars, minibuses and coaches), to both rigid and articulated Large Goods Vehicles (LGV) and mobile cranes; you will also refuel aircraft using tankers, clear runways using specialist de-icing vehicles and move specialist freight with complex trailers. It will be your responsibility to make sure that RAF personnel, equipment and vehicles get to the right place, at the right time to meet Defence's operational output. You will be driving or operating on exercises, operational deployments, on and off airfields throughout the world, both on roads or rough terrain.
You will drive an array of different passengers (including VIPs), LGVs containing equipment, which will include hazardous materials using the Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR) qualification you gained during your Initial Trade Training. Within your first few years, you will probably be detached overseas from a few days, up to several months.
As a specialist and professional vocational driver, you will be expected to maintain the highest standards of dress, deportment and driving technique. You must work as part of a team, whilst having the capability and confidence to work and make decisions independently. Full training and support is available to RAF Drivers throughout their career. The role is varied and, after training, you could be stationed across the UK and beyond. The apprenticeship is a gateway to a full-time career in the Royal Air Force. Promotion to the rank of Corporal and beyond is dependent on successful completion of the apprenticeship and then on merit by competitive selection. As you advance through the ranks, you will have the increased opportunity to lead and direct people, managing resources and workforce within your area of work to deliver the required outputs whilst maintaining and instilling the highest standards expected within the RAF.
About the Training
On successful completion of the application and selection process, your apprenticeship will start with a 10-week Basic Recruit Training Course (BRTC) at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire. The course is designed to help you adjust to a military environment. As well as fitness and military training, you will also learn about the RAF lifestyle.
Your next step will be the specialist driving course at the Defence School of Transport at Leconfield in East Yorkshire, which takes up to four months. During this course you will be trained to pass driving tests in Categories B, C, C+E and D; you will also learn additional military driving skills such as Vehicle Loading and Restraint, Off Road Driving, Skid Avoidance and Recovery Techniques as well as the procedures and regulations for carrying dangerous goods by road (ADR). At the end of the course, you will have passed your driving tests (if you haven't already done so before you join) and earned the SQA ADR Driver Training Certificate for Carrying Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR). You will also be well on the way to achieving an Intermediate Apprenticeship (L2) in Driving Goods Vehicles.
About the Employer
The Royal Air Force work with our UK and international partners to watch the skies, respond to threats, prevent conflict, and provide assistance in an uncertain world. We provide all personnel with a varied range of training and activities to make sure you're ready for anything. A career in the Royal Air Force will provide you with a whole host of possibilities. You will receive world class training, allowing you to learn and develop throughout your career. We recruit throughout the year, so please ignore the closing and start dates.
Skills Required
- Logical
- Initiative
- Physical fitness
Training Provider
BRITISH ARMY
Course/Training
Large goods vehicle (LGV) driver C + E (level 2)
Contact Detail:
Paul Davis Restoration of Greenville and Spartanburg Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land RAF Driver - Full Time Career with Apprenticeship
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the types of vehicles you'll be driving as an RAF Driver. Understanding the specifications and operational requirements of Passenger Carrying Vehicles (PCV) and Large Goods Vehicles (LGV) will give you a solid foundation to discuss during your interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your teamwork skills! The role requires working closely with others, so think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully collaborated in a team environment. This will demonstrate your ability to fit into the RAF's collaborative culture.
✨Tip Number 3
Highlight any previous driving experience or relevant qualifications, especially if you have experience with hazardous materials or large vehicles. This can set you apart from other candidates and show that you're prepared for the responsibilities of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the physical fitness aspect of the role. Being in good shape is crucial for an RAF Driver, so consider incorporating fitness training into your routine. This will not only help you during the selection process but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
We think you need these skills to ace RAF Driver - Full Time Career with Apprenticeship
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of an RAF Driver. Familiarise yourself with the types of vehicles you'll be operating and the skills required, such as driving large goods vehicles and handling hazardous materials.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the RAF Driver position. Emphasise any previous driving experience, teamwork, and decision-making abilities, as well as your physical fitness.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the apprenticeship opportunity. Mention why you want to join the RAF and how you can contribute to their mission. Be sure to include specific examples of your skills and experiences.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in a military environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Paul Davis Restoration of Greenville and Spartanburg
✨Know Your Vehicles
Familiarise yourself with the different types of vehicles you'll be driving as an RAF Driver. Understanding the specifications and operational requirements of Passenger Carrying Vehicles (PCV) and Large Goods Vehicles (LGV) will show your enthusiasm and readiness for the role.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
Since the role requires working as part of a team, be prepared to discuss examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in previous roles. Highlight your ability to make decisions independently while still valuing team input.
✨Emphasise Your Physical Fitness
Physical fitness is crucial for this role, so be ready to talk about your fitness routine or any relevant training you've undertaken. This will demonstrate your commitment to maintaining the high standards expected within the RAF.
✨Prepare for Situational Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle challenging situations. Think of scenarios where you had to think on your feet or adapt quickly, especially in a driving context or under pressure.