Cyberspace Communication Specialist – Full Time Career with Apprenticeship Advanced Level 3 (A level)

Cyberspace Communication Specialists ensure the RAF remains at the cutting edge of technological advances, this is essential for the RAF to be able to communicate effectively and move information around safely and securely. You will work as part of a highly trained and technologically skilled workforce that will be responsible for a wide variety of tasks.

You will work as part of a highly trained and technologically skilled workforce that will be responsible for a wide variety of tasks including:

• Safeguarding our UK-based IT networks from intrusions
• Coordinating the RAF’s vast array of information
• Establishing overseas networks and equipment for Deployed Commanders and Air Traffic Services

Technical knowledge is challenging, but the benefits, achievements, and impacts are highly rewarding.

One of the many advantages of being a Cyberspace Communications Specialist is the incredible breadth and diversity of the roles that you could be employed in.

Upon completion of your training, you will graduate as an RAF ICT Tech and be sent on your first tour. Opportunities exist across the country for your first tour, but wherever you are sent you will be using your skills to immediately support the RAF’s outputs. You will join a team responsible for managing your unit’s cyberspace systems. A first tour could be as part of the 90 Signals Unit, which includes the RAF’s deployable expeditionary communications team. This team deploys around the globe and a job here would have you supporting global operations by providing the cyberspace systems that enable communications back to the UK effectively. 

Alternatively, you could be employed on an aircraft squadron, maintaining and supporting the aircraft’s mission support system that enables the aircraft to carry out its sorties. Another current role for your first tour is to work within an information Hub, where you will be the first port of call for providing advice on software applications, information management and system administration, or repairing IT systems and installing software and hardware.

What training will the apprentice take and what qualification will the apprentice get at the end?

• On successful completion of the application and selection process, your apprenticeship will start with a 10-week Basic Recruit Training Course at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire
• The course is designed to help you adjust to a military environment. As well as fitness and military training, you will also learn about the RAF lifestyle
• The next step is a specialist training course at No 1 Radio School, Cosford, near Wolverhampton; a first-class training establishment. This foundation course is approx. 35 Weeks long and is designed to prepare you for your first tours by giving you a breadth of skills and knowledge across the full range of duties you may be employed in
• You will study a range of subjects, including: electronic and radio principles; mathematics; Cisco Academy IT Essentials; Cisco Introduction to Networks; Microsoft Server 2K12, Relational Databases, Programming Techniques, satellite and data communications; information systems and network administration and Cyber security
• In addition, you will also be instructed in health and safety, maintenance practices and procedures giving you the skills required to deploy and maintain our range of communications information networks and sensors
• The training you will receive at No 1 Radio School is recognised by a wide range of civilian employers and backed by transferable qualifications
• During your specialist training as a Cyberspace Communication Specialist, where eligible, you will be enrolled on an Information Communication Technician Apprenticeship Standard Level 3 qualification; all knowledge requirements will be completed during your technical training, skills & behaviours will be captured within the work place during your first tour
• You can also gain a Foundation Degree in Computing Science from Staffordshire University

What is the expected career progression after this apprenticeship?

• The apprenticeship is also a gateway to a full-time career in the Royal Air Force. One of the many advantages of being a Cyberspace Communications Specialist is the incredible breadth and diversity of the roles that you could be employed in
• Further specialist training is available to you to ensure that you are properly trained for your roles. Some personnel may undertake specialist training to work on the new solid state radar or deployable navigation aids. If required, specialist training will be given in application support, web skills, database and network management, software and application development, coding and cyberspace security to assure the integrity and efficient operation and management of the RAF and other military networks
• After completing one year’s total service, you will be eligible for promotion to Air Specialist Class 1, providing you pass Basic Specialisation Training and Professional Workplace Assessment (PWA). Following the completion of PWA, 18 months in rank and your apprenticeship you may advance to Air Specialist Class 1 Technician. Further promotion to the rank of Corporal and beyond is on merit by competitive selection and will require the completion of further periods of Command and Management Training to prepare you for the demands of your new rank

Desired skills and personal qualities

Communication skills, IT skills, Attention to detail, Organisation skills, Customer care skills, Problem solving skills, Number skills, Logical, Team working, Initiative, Physical fitness

Qualifications

GCSE or equivalent English Language, Grade C/4 or above Essential
GCSE or equivalent Mathematics, Grade C/4 or above Essential
GCSE or equivalent an approved Science/Technology-based subject., Grade C/4 or above Desired

Employer Name

Royal Air Force

Training provider

ROYAL AIR FORCE

Apprenticeship standard

Information communications technician (level 3)

How to apply?

To apply for this role and to find out more, please click on the apply button.

Applications may close before the deadline, so please apply early to avoid disappointment.