At a Glance
- Tasks: Install and maintain vital communication infrastructure for the RAF's digital ecosystem.
- Company: Join the RAF and be part of a progressive cyber engineering team.
- Benefits: Enjoy subsidised food, travel, accommodation, and free gym access.
- Other info: Guaranteed job post-training with excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in communications while developing your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: GCSE Grade 4 in English and Maths; must pass fitness tests.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
As a Communications Infrastructure Technician you will provide communication for the RAF’s digital infrastructure ecosystem by installing and maintaining essential fibre optic and data communication cables, radome structures and antenna masts working at height or in secure operation rooms.
Responsibilities Ensure that the RAF remains at the forefront of a progressive cyber engineering industry Repair, maintain and recover communication equipment Investigate and fix faults with antenna systems, fibre optic and data communication cables Assemble and install communication infrastructure such as antenna masts, fibre optic cables and radome installation structures Entry Requirements Age 16 – 47 years (must attest before 48th birthday) Minimum GCSE Grade 4 (or equivalent SCE Standard Grade 2/Scottish National 5 at C or Functional Skills Level 2) in English Language and Mathematics.
If missing one subject, can still join but must achieve FS Level 2 in that subject during Phase 1 training.
Must complete a specialist interview which includes a climbing aptitude test at RAF Digby.
Maximum weight 100kg (must be achieved and maintained by medical review).
Commit to a minimum of 3 years post‑Phase Two training.
Nationality & Residency Citizen of the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland, holder of dual UK/other nationality, or Commonwealth citizen with right to work.
Residency in the UK for the 5 years immediately preceding application (minimum 3 years acceptable).
Meet Security Check (SC) clearance.
Fitness Requirements Pass the Pre‑Joining Fitness Test (PJFT): 2.4km run on treadmill (zero incline).
Requirements vary by age and gender.
Fitness assessed again at RAF Cranwell via Multi‑Stage Fitness Test (MSFT).
Maintain physical fitness throughout service.
Health Requirements Medical fitness (physical and psychological) for military duty, including deployability.
Maintain BMI within specified limits (healthy BMI 18.5‑24.9; higher BMI up to 32 allowable if muscle mass, with waist circumference measurement).
Eye and hearing standards must be met.
Background Checks Declare any previous spent and unspent convictions.
Check eligibility under Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
Achieve Security Check (SC) clearance.
Disqualifying Factors Membership or support of a group that fosters racial hatred or violence.
Pending court appearance or unspent convictions (must declare spent convictions for certain roles).
Misuse of drugs, solvents or anabolic steroids.
Obscene or offensive tattoos, brands or bead implants (specific restrictions on location and content).
Visible body piercings that do not close.
Undischarged bankrupt status.
Training & Career Development Phase One Training – 10 weeks basic recruit training at RAF Halton.
Phase Two Training – 26 weeks specialist training at RAF Digby.
First tour – ongoing assignments at RAF bases within the UK or overseas.
Ongoing professional development – opportunities for apprenticeships, industry‑standard certifications, and potential for professional registration with a national engineering institute.
Future career prospects – eligibility for promotion to AS1 (T), Corporal, and higher ranks, with progression to ICT Manager after further training.
Benefits Subsidised food, travel and accommodation.
Free gym access.
Guaranteed job upon completion of apprenticeship and training. #J-18808-Ljbffr
Communications Infrastructure Technician in Cardiff employer: Royal Air Force
Joining the RAF as a Regiment Gunner offers a unique opportunity to serve your country while developing invaluable skills in defence and protection. With comprehensive training pathways, ongoing career progression, and benefits such as subsidised food and accommodation, you will thrive in a supportive work culture that values teamwork and personal growth. Located at key RAF bases, you will be part of a prestigious organisation committed to excellence and service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Communications Infrastructure Technician in Cardiff
✨Get Hands-On Experience
Since you’re looking for an apprenticeship in telecommunications networking, dive into practical projects. Join local tech workshops or volunteer with community organisations that set up networks. The more real-world experience you gather, the better you’ll showcase your skills to potential employers like Royal Air Force.
✨Connect with Networking Communities
Tap into local networking groups or online forums dedicated to telecommunications. Platforms like Meetup or LinkedIn have specific groups where you can find mentors and industry insiders. Engage with them, ask questions, and maybe even snag a referral or two for apprenticeships at places like Royal Air Force.
✨Showcase Your Passion
Create a small portfolio or a blog where you discuss trends and innovations in the telecommunications field. Share any projects or studies you’ve done related to networking. This will demonstrate your enthusiasm and understanding of the industry to prospective employers.
✨Apply Directly Through Us
When you spot an apprenticeship opportunity at Royal Air Force, don’t hesitate! Apply directly through our website. We can help streamline your application, ensuring you get noticed fast. Plus, our resources have loads of tips to make your application stand out. Let’s get you that apprenticeship!
We think you need these skills to ace Communications Infrastructure Technician in Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Knowledge:In the telecommunications-networking field, it's super important to highlight any technical knowledge you have. If you've worked with networking hardware or software, or understand concepts like IP addresses and routing protocols, make sure to include that in your CV or cover letter. Even if you’ve only done projects during your studies, we want to see your enthusiasm and understanding!
Emphasise Learning Potential:As this is an apprenticeship, we’re looking for your potential to learn and grow. Use your cover letter to express why you're passionate about telecommunications and how this apprenticeship at Royal Air Force will help you kickstart your career. Share any relevant coursework or projects that demonstrate your eagerness to jump in and get hands-on experience!
Highlight Relevant Certifications:If you've completed any relevant certifications like CCNA or CompTIA Network+, make sure these are front and centre in your application. They not only bolster your credibility but also show that you're serious about your journey into networking. We love seeing candidates who take the initiative to gain extra qualifications!
Tailor Your CV Format:In the telecommunications field, a clear and concise CV format is key. Use bullet points to make your skills, education, and experiences easily digestible. Focus on any practical experience or relevant coursework to really grab our attention at Royal Air Force. And remember, apply through our website for a streamlined process—let’s get you started on this exciting journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal Air Force
✨Understand the Tech
Brush up on the fundamentals of telecommunications and networking. Make sure you’re familiar with concepts like routing protocols, network security, and the OSI model. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will help you stand out to the interviewers at Royal Air Force.
✨Hands-On Experience Matters
Since you're applying for an apprenticeship, practical skills are key! If you've worked with networking tools or software (like Wireshark or Cisco IOS), be ready to share your experiences. We want to hear about what you've actually done with the tech, not just what you know from books.
✨Show Your Willingness to Learn
Remember, apprenticeship roles are about potential and eagerness to grow. Be prepared to discuss how you've tackled challenges in the past and what you're excited to learn at Royal Air Force. This will show them you're driven and ready for hands-on training.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's current projects or technologies they’re exploring. This shows that you’re genuinely interested in their work. You could ask about how they adapt to new telecom technologies or what challenges they're facing in networking today.
