At a Glance
- Tasks: Cook for soldiers and VIPs, gaining essential culinary skills.
- Company: Join the British Army and experience a unique lifestyle.
- Benefits: Earn £27,282 from day one, with career progression and qualifications.
- Other info: Opportunities for worldwide deployment and further qualifications.
- Why this job: Make a difference while enjoying adventure and camaraderie.
- Qualifications: Open to ages 16-36; no prior experience needed.
The predicted salary is between 27282 - 27282 £ per year.
Cook for everyone from hungry soldiers in the field to VIPs at state ceremonies. Get skilled, qualified and enjoy an incredible Army life. Everything you need to know about the role, requirements and what you’ll gain.
Age
You can join between the ages of 16 – 36. At the time of your application, you will need to be between 16 years & 6 months old and 35 years & 6 months old. You can start your training as a Junior Soldier at the Army Foundation College from the age of 16 years and 6 months.
Training & Steps
- Step 1: You’ll start with your initial military training which teaches you how to be a soldier, covering everything from fieldcraft to how to handle a rifle. If you join as a Junior Soldier (under 17 years and 6 months), you’ll do the basic military training (long) course at Harrogate. If you join as a Regular Soldier (over 17 years and 6 months), you’ll do the regular adult basic training.
- Step 2: You’ll then spend 18 weeks at the Defence Food Service Wing at Worthy Down. First, you’ll learn about food and personal hygiene. Then you start working in the kitchen where you have the chance to earn a Level 2 qualification in Health and Safety. Training ends with four weeks of field catering, including five days learning Basic Close Combat Skills. You will earn your category B driving licence at the Defence School of Transport.
Salary & Benefits
You’ll earn £27,282 a year from the start of your training, which will go up as you progress throughout your career. Opportunity to earn category B Driving Licence. Functional Skills Levels 2 and 3 Health and Safety.
Timeline
- Online application – Complete your application form online. You’ll need details about your education, work history, and why you want to join the Army.
- Meet with an Army Recruiter – Discuss your application, answer questions, and guide you through the next steps.
- Medical Checks – Your medical records are checked to ensure it’s safe for you to join.
- Assessment Centre – Attend a 2‑day residential assessment where you complete fitness tests, cognitive assessments, medical examinations, and team exercises.
- Security clearance – Background and security checks are conducted; timing may vary.
Other Opportunities
As you progress in your career you could also get further qualifications and experience in a commercial environment, and you could be deployed worldwide wherever the British Army has a presence.
Your future starts here
Every Chef started exactly where you are now. Take the first step. This role is also available in the Army Reserve. Serve part-time as a Reserve Chef while maintaining your civilian career. Train on evenings and weekends, with opportunities for overseas deployments and adventure training.
