At a Glance
- Tasks: Capture stunning stills and videos for the RAF, from training films to aerial reconnaissance.
- Company: Join the Royal Air Force, a dynamic and prestigious organisation.
- Benefits: Enjoy subsidised food, travel, accommodation, and free gym access.
- Other info: Ongoing training and career development opportunities await you.
- Why this job: Be the eyes of the RAF and make a real impact with your photography skills.
- Qualifications: GCSE grade C/4 in English and Maths; aged 16-47.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
A RAF Photographer will capture a wide variety of high‑quality still and video imagery for the RAF, including aerial reconnaissance, public‑relations portraits, engineering and accident investigations, target identification, and training films.
Responsibilities:
- Become the eyes of the RAF, creating high‑quality stills and video imagery during times of peace and also in conflict.
- Gather photographic evidence for engineering, security and accident investigations.
- Print target identification images for aircrew.
- Shoot video training films.
- Use cutting‑edge digital technology to produce stills and video imagery.
Requirements at a Glance:
- Minimum of GCSE grade C/4 or Scottish National 5 grade C in English Language and Mathematics/Application of Mathematics.
- Be aged 16–47 years old (must attest before 48th birthday).
- Meet specific nationality and residency criteria.
- Commit to a minimum of 3 years post‑specialist training.
Training Overview:
- Phase One: Basic Recruit Training – 10 weeks at RAF Halton, Buckinghamshire.
- Phase Two: Specialist Training – 20 weeks at RAF Cosford, Defence School of Photography.
- First Tour – Specialist training ongoing as assigned in a UK Photographic Section.
- Ongoing Training and Career Development – Continuous professional development throughout your career.
Benefits:
- Enjoy subsidised food, travel, accommodation, and free gym access, giving you more disposable income.
Application Process Overview:
- Stage 1: Aptitude Test – Six multiple‑choice sections covering verbal, numerical, work rate, spatial, electrical, and mechanical reasoning.
- Stage 2: Selection Interviews – Discussion of family life, education, interests, training, and the role you’ve applied for.
- Stage 3: Health Assessment – Occupational health screening for hearing, eyesight, BMI, and medical history.
- Stage 4: Fitness Test – Pre‑joining fitness test (2.4 km run) at a local gym.
- Stage 5: Acceptance – Provisional offer of service interview at your nearest AFCO.
- Stage 6: Basic Training – 10‑week course at RAF Halton covering basic recruit training, force protection, field exercise, and graduation.
This role is highly competitive; please consider applying to related positions such as People Operations, HR People Specialist, Air & Space Operations, Aviation Data Analyst, and Analysis & Maths.
Photographer 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.
