Job Overview
Train in painting and plastering and then work on the Army’s biggest building projects around the world. Get a trade qualification and an exciting lifestyle.
Age Requirements
You can join between the ages of 16 – 36. At the time of your application you will need to be between 15 years & 7 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.
Educational Qualifications
GCSE Grade A–D/9‑3, or Scottish National 4, in at least English Language, Maths and one other subject.
Responsibilities
- Learn and master plaster boarding, painting, tiling, glazing and scaffolding.
- Deploy on operations worldwide and carry out work on a variety of military and civilian projects.
- Participate in Army sports and adventurous training.
Training Pathway and Salary
Step 1 – Initial military training teaches soldiering, fieldcraft and weapon handling. Junior Soldiers (under 17 years and 6 months) attend a basic training course at Harrogate; Regular Soldiers (over 17 years and 6 months) attend the regular adult basic training.
Step 2 – 12 weeks at the Royal School of Military Engineering near Camberley, learning military engineering skills such as knots, lashings, demolition and bridge building. Followed by 24 weeks at the Royal School of Military Engineering in Chatham, focusing on dry lining, painting, wall and floor tiling, planning and site safety.
Your salary starts at £27,282 per year from the start of training and increases as you progress.
Application Process
- Online application.
- Meeting with an Army Recruiter.
- Medical checks.
- Assessment centre – a 2‑day residential assessment that includes fitness tests, cognitive assessments, medical examinations and team exercises.
- Security clearance.
Timeline
From application to training you can expect a timeline of around 3 – 6 months, with stages as follows:
- 1–2 days initial assessment.
- 1–2 weeks recruiter meeting.
- 1–3 months medical checks.
- 2 days assessment centre.
- 3–5 months security clearance.
