Trainee Supply Chain Operative

Age: 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 & 11 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. GCSE grade E/2, or Scottish National 4, or above in Maths and English.

Key responsibilities:

• Use Logistic Information Systems (LIS) to help control the storage and distribution of kit and equipment, making sure supplies are always available.
• Work in barracks, combat units and warehouses as part of an Army Unit or attached to another organisation.
• Deploy all over the world on exercise and operations – wherever your expertise is needed.
• Train as a Materiel Accountant and gain your C+E Driving Licence.
• Gain an Adult Apprenticeship in Warehousing and Storage.

Training Steps:

• Step 1: Your initial military training 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 a basic military training (short) 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: Next you will complete your trade training at the Defence School of Logistics in Worthy Down to be qualified as a RLC Supply Chain Operator Class 3. At this stage, you will be enrolled onto the Level 2 Warehouse Operative Apprenticeship. You will also earn your Category B and C+E licences at the Defence School of Transport, Leconfield.
• Step 3: After 12 months in your Unit, you will complete the Class 2 upgrade assessment. Following a further two years, you will be eligible to complete the Class 1 course if successfully promoted to Lance Corporal.

Salary: You’ll earn £27,282 a year from the start of your training, which will go up as you progress throughout your career. Talk to your recruiter to find out if you’re eligible for this financial incentive.

Timeline (estimated):

• 1-2 days – initial contact.
• 1-2 weeks – meeting with an Army Recruiter.
• 1-3 months – medical checks.
• 3-5 months – assessment centre.
• Further dates – security clearance and deployment.

Application Process:

• 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 who will discuss your application, answer questions, and guide you through the next steps.
• Next you’ll have your medical records checked. This could take some time as it’s a really important step to make sure it’s safe for you to join.
• Attend a 2‑day residential assessment where you’ll complete fitness tests, cognitive assessments, medical examinations, and team exercises.
• Background and security checks are conducted. This can take longer depending on your personal circumstances and history.

Benefits:

• Accommodation – basic living arrangements during basic training.
• Food & Meals – daily meals at the cookhouse designed to support training and tasks.
• Travel the world – opportunities to travel globally and experience new places.
• Sports & fitness – from beginner to elite level, a range of sports are available at every level.

Your future starts here. Every Supply Chain Operator started exactly where you are now. Take the first step. Get supplies where they’re needed, when they’re needed. Be a warehouse expert and build a CV you can use outside the Army too. Control the movement of personnel and equipment by air, road, rail and sea in support of operations, exercises and international relief operations. This role is also available in the Army Reserve. Serve part time as a Reserve Supply Chain Operator while maintaining your civilian career. Train on evenings and weekends, with opportunities for overseas deployments and adventure training.