Job Description
What will you do? As a Chef you will get the chance to work on preparing attractive menus that meet set standards, following specifications to maintain quality and control, adhering to hygiene, health and safety regulations whilst instilling a knowledge of allergens, nutrition and diets so you can cater to the diverse Royal Air Force family. In your role you will: Prepare meals and work across various environments including Military Messes, Field kitchens, and In-Flight Catering Order, store and account for foodHelp plan menus for everyday meals and VIP occasionsPrepare in-flight meals for cabin crew and passengers Master every kitchen Find out more about life as a Chef, working in kitchens across the globe to keep fellow teams fuelled and ready to go. Minimum education requirements Unqualified Chef: No formal qualifications are required Qualified Chef: You should have at least 12 months of suitable experience working as a chef/cook in a hotel, restaurant, hospital or industrial canteen, or other catering establishment (not fast food).You will also need one of the following: NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Food Preparation and CookingApprenticeship in Commis Chef or Production Chef StandardsAny other appropriate recognised civilian qualification Minimum education requirements Unqualified Chef: No formal qualifications are required Qualified Chef: You should have at least 12 months of suitable experience working as a chef/cook in a hotel, restaurant, hospital or industrial canteen, or other catering establishment (not fast food).You will also need one of the following: NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Food Preparation and CookingApprenticeship in Commis Chef or Production Chef StandardsAny other appropriate recognised civilian qualification Requirements Be aged 16 – 47 years old (Must attest before 48th birthday) You must be a citizen of the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland, holder of dual UK/other nationality or have been a Commonwealth citizen since birth (with ‘right to work’ immigration status)Commit to a minimum 3 years after specialist trainingPass the Defence Aptitude Assessment Pass a fitness test Requirements Be aged 18-54 Applicants must apply no later than age 54 and 9 months in order to attest before 55th birthday Ex-Regulars and specialist entrants may be considered on a case by case basisIf a qualified Chef, have a NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Food Preparation and Cooking; and Level 2 or 3 Certificate in Hospitality and Catering Principles (Professional Cookery) or any other appropriate recognised civilian qualificationBe a citizen of the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland, holder of dual UK/other nationality or have been a Commonwealth Citizen (with indefinite leave to remain immigration status) since birthCommit 27 days per yearPass a Apprenticeships available The RAF is one of the largest providers of diverse apprenticeships in the UK. We offer these apprenticeships for this role: Level 2 Apprenticeship in Production Chef Production chefs work as part of a team in time-bound and often challenging kitchen environments. Reserve role locations Reserve roles exist in specific reserve squadrons, which in turn are located at specific RAF bases. As you will not be resident at those bases (except on multi-day operations or exercises), geographic proximity to where you live is important. These are the bases where this role is active: 501 Sqn, RAF Brize Norton, Oxfordshire 502 Sqn, JHFS Aldergrove, Co Antrim 504 Sqn, RAF Wittering, Cambridgeshire 505 Sqn, RAF St Mawgan, Newquay 602 Sqn, Glasgow, Scotland 605 Sqn, RAF Cosford, Shropshire 606 Sqn, RAF Benson, Oxon 607 Sqn, RAF Leeming, North Yorkshire 611 Sqn, RAF Woodvale, Merseyside 614 Sqn, Cardiff TRAINING AND CAREER At any level or position your personal success is vital to make us succeed too. We are dedicated to your future, as it is essential to ours. You will receive basic and specialist training in your field and we even provide the option to pay for your education. The experience you gain with the RAF will equip you to work at the top of your field, both in the UK and overseas. 01 Phase one training Basic Recruit training 10 weeks RAF Halton Your career will start with Basic Recruit Training Course (BRTC) at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire. 10 weeks RAF Halton Phase one training The course is designed to help you adjust to a military environment. As well as fitness and military training, you’ll also learn about the RAF lifestyle. 02 Phase two training Specialist training 12 weeks Worthy Down If you’re joining with little or no catering experience, you will need to complete specialist training at the Food Services Training Wing at Worthy Down. 12 weeks Worthy Down Phase two training This course will train you to maintain excellent standards of personal, food and kitchen hygiene whilst using specialist kitchen equipment to produce a variety of dishes. You will also undertake a 10-day Introduction to Deployed Operations with No 3 Mobile Catering Squadron (3 MCS) where you will be trained to set up field kitchens under canvas, this skill will enable you to provide catering support to deployed operations worldwide as well as supporting exercises both based in the UK and abroad.If you have the relevant qualifications and experience in professional cookery you will be offered the opportunity to undertake a diagnostic test at Food Services Training Wing at Worthy Down prior attestation. Applicants are required to achieve a minimum 80% pass in both the Theory and Practical elements to ensure eligibility for accelerated promotion thereafter.Successful applicants (after completion of BRTC) will automatically progress to the last 4 weeks of the chef course where they will complete familiarisation training and the 10-day introduction to Deployed Operations with 3 MCS. 03 First tour Specialist training 12 weeks As assigned You’ll be working either an Officers’, Sergeants’ or Junior Ranks’ Mess, where you will produce a wide range of high-quality food. 12 weeks As assigned First tour During your first tour, you will consolidate your training and gain valuable experience that will prepare you for your first operational tour of duty supporting 3 Mobile Catering Squadron in the field or on a deployed Airfield anywhere in the world. The consolidation period includes your Trade Ability Tests (TATs). Successful completion of TATs demonstrates that an individual has achieved an initial level of competence and is a prerequisite for promotion to the rank of Air Specialist (Class 1), unless you are on a FastTrack engagement. A first tour is always demanding but also highly rewarding and you will be given the time to develop your skills and become an effective member of the team. 04 Ongoing Development Ongoing training Ongoing As assigned As your career progresses, we will continue to train you to the highest standard and equip you with the skills you require to take on new responsibilities. Ongoing As assigned Ongoing Development This means that there are opportunities for management, leadership, health and safety training and other associated qualifications. These include: Catering Advanced Skills CourseCatering Supervisors/Managers CourseAdvanced Deployed Skills (ADS) CourseFood Safety and Nutrition Courses up to Level 4 05 Career prospects Ongoing development Ongoing As assigned Further promotion to the rank of Corporal and beyond is by competitive selection. Ongoing As assigned Career prospects We want you to grow and experience all the opportunities, challenges and responsibilities that being an RAF Chef has to offer, but you will be the driver of your career and decide when you are ready for a new challenge with us. You can expect to remain in your first post for 2-3 years and following tours will be 3 - 5 years. As an AS1 you could be employed on Catering Retail and Leisure Units, 3 Mobile Catering Squadron and on VIP duties. On promotion to Corporal you can add Instructional duties and embedded Chef on RAF Regiment Sqns to possible employment areas. 06 Transferable skills Ongoing development Ongoing As assigned Qualified Chefs and Catering skills are sought after by civilian organisations. Ongoing As assigned Transferable skills Therefore, on leaving the RAF you are extremely employable and well placed to find a new job such as: Head ChefBakerButcherCatering ManagerConsumer ScientistFood Factory ManagerFood Manufacturing InspectorFood ScientistPublicanHotel Manager All Chef entrants are offered the opportunity to enrol on to the Production Chef Intermediate Apprenticeship. The Apprenticeship is completed during your first tour of duty following an independent End Point Assessment. The Chef training programme includes the following elements: Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering Level 2 Award in Health and Safety in the WorkplaceLevel 2 Award in Nutrition prevnext TRAINING AND CAREER At any level or position your personal success is vital to make us succeed too. We are dedicated to your future, as it is essential to ours. You will receive basic and specialist training in your field and we even provide the option to pay for your education. The experience you gain with the RAF will equip you to work at the top of your field, both in the UK and overseas. 01 Phase one training Basic Recruit Training 23 days (split) RAF Halton Your first steps with us will be your Basic Recruit Training Course (BRTC). 23 days (split) RAF Halton Phase one training This will take place over 4 weekends at your chosen RAF Reserves Squadron, followed by a 15-day residential training course at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire. This should be completed within your first year in RAF reserves.Throughout your training you’ll become prepared for service life in one of the most respected military forces in the world. As well as military training you’ll learn about the core values, code of conduct, and history of the RAF as well as its unique lifestyle. 02 Phase two training Specialist Training Ongoing As assigned After successfully completing initial training, you will be trained for your specific role in the RAF either at your squadron or another RAF station in the UK. Ongoing As assigned Phase two training You’ll now be trained for your specific role with us, either at your squadron or another RAF station in the UK. 03 Your commitment to us Ongoing training Ongoing As assigned We ask that you commit to a minimum of 27 days each year with us. Ongoing As assigned Your commitment to us This will mean you can get the most out of your role as a Reserve and provide value to us.Each year includes a 15-day block for general RAF training, and 12 separate days for extra training or exercises. You could also be deployed to a UK or overseas base for up to 6 months after your first year with us. 04 Ongoing development Ongoing training Ongoing As assigned You will have valuable personal development opportunities together with the chance to work around the world, gaining unique experiences in the process. Ongoing As assigned Ongoing development As well as RAF training packages and courses linked to outside professional bodies, we actively support individual study programmes at every level. 05 Transferable skills Ongoing training Ongoing As assigned Much of our in-house training is accredited or recognised by external awarding bodies. Ongoing As assigned Transferable skills The skills you learn with us as a Reserve will complement those that you use in the wider world, providing value at work and at home too. prevnext WHY JOIN THE RAF ? Thanks to subsidised food, travel, accommodation and free gym you get more money in your pocket. Rent from £75p/m Free gym Subsidised food Health care World travel Training WHY JOIN THE RESERVES ? The skills you acquire as a Reserve won’t just prepare you for the RAF, they will enhance your work and civilian life. You might be called up to assist with our operations worldwide for up to six months, during which you may be able to claim a pay award to cover your and your employer’s costs. Training Free gym Subsidised food Paid pension Paid holiday Commitment and Location You will have to commit to 27 days per year for 12 years minimum.Each year includes a 15-day block for general RAF training, and 12 separate days for extra training or exercises.You might be deployed to a UK or overseas base for up to 6 months after the first year. WHAT HAPPENS AFTER APPLYING Joining the RAF takes several steps. Below is an overview of the process. The purpose of this process is for us to gauge whether you’re the right person for the RAF and for you to show us all of your skills and experiences that have made you who you are. 1 Aptitude test 2 Selection Interviews 3 Health Assessment 4 Fitness Test 5 Acceptance 6 Training 1 Aptitude test Stage 1 of 6 The aptitude test has been designed to ensure you’re a good fit for the role you’re applying for. You’ll answer seven multiple choice sections which each focus on a different skill: Verbal reasoning - use and interpretation of written informationNumerical reasoning - ability with basic fractions, decimals and formulaeWork rate - speed and accuracy of tasksSpatial reasoning - how shapes and objects workElectrical comprehension - working with electrical conceptsMechanical comprehension - grasp of mechanical conceptsMemory - Ability to remember information accurately Click to try the online practice test. 2 Selection Interviews Stage 2 of 6 Here’s where we get to know you a little better. You’ll get to showcase your skills and experience, and we’ll answer any questions you have about joining us. Your interview will take place at a local AFCO and cover the following topics: Family lifeEducationWork experienceSpecial interests and hobbiesInterest in the RAFTrainingThe role you’ve applied forThe RAF You’ll be asked a series of standard questions, and you’ll be able to ask your own questions during the debrief afterwards. Some roles require a second interview and/ or test to determine your suitability. These are normally conducted over a 1-3 day period at an RAF base where you’ll be able to see, and experience, the kind of environment you’ll be working in. Details about which interviews are relevant for you will be provided during the application process. 3 Health Assessment Stage 3 of 6 You’re legally required to meet certain medical standards, and must pass an occupational health assessment to show you’re fit for military duty. As part of this assessment we will check your overall health, focusing on areas like hearing, eyesight and body mass index. We’ll also investigate any past illnesses and screen for health issues that may prevent you from carrying out your role. Please refer to entry requirements below for more information about the health standards you’ll need to meet. 4 Fitness Test Stage 4 of 6 A good level of fitness is critical to joining the RAF, it’s also something that must be maintained throughout your career. You’ll need to complete a Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFC). This will take place at a local gym, and includes a 2.4km run, push up test and a sit-up test. The performance level you’ll need to meet differs by age and gender. Please refer to the entry requirements below for more information about the health standards you’ll need to meet. You can also find help, and a training plan, to assist you in your preparation . 5 Acceptance Stage 5 of 6 Once you’ve successfully completed each phase of the application process you’ll be invited to a provisional offer of service interview at your nearest AFCO. This is to ensure that you understand the terms and conditions of service in the RAF, are fully committed to joining, and prepared to commence training. 6 Training Stage 6 of 6 Basic Recruit TrainingThis takes place over 10 weeks at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire. It will make you fitter and more confident. It will challenge you mentally and physically, and it will prepare you for your career with us. There are 6 phases: Arrival - You’ll be sworn into the RAF and be given a service numberGeneral Service training - You’ll learn about marching, drills, core values and our code of conductInitial Force Protection training - Fighting and survival in a military environmentExercise Blue Warrior - 4 days in the field with real battle conditionsForce development training - Apply your skills in new environments with adventurous training activitiesGraduation - Learn about what’s required in your first post and display your new skills What next?Now you’re a fully-fledged member of the RAF you can receive role specific training. WHAT HAPPENS AFTER APPLYING Joining the RAF as a Reserve takes several steps. Below is an overview of the process. The purpose of this process is for us to gauge whether you’re the right person for the RAF and for you to show us all of your skills and experiences that have made you who you are. 1 Squadron information day 2 Aptitude test 3 Selection interview 4 Health assessment 5 Fitness test 6 Acceptance 7 Training 1 Squadron information day Stage 1 of 7 The first step in the application process requires you to attend a squadron information day. This is a chance for you to visit the squadron of your choice and ask questions. You’ll get to see what life is like in the RAF Reserves and learn about the trade you’re interested in. 2 Aptitude test Stage 2 of 7 All Reserves take an aptitude test known as the ‘Defence Aptitude Test’ at the local squadron they have applied to, or a local AFCO in some cases. The test ensures we match the right candidate to the right role and consists of seven multiple choice sections focusing on different skills: Verbal reasoning – tests your use and interpretation of written informationNumerical reasoning – measures your ability with basic fractions, decimals and formulaeWork rate – checks for fast and accurate completion of tasksSpatial reasoning – gauges your understanding of how shapes and objects workElectrical comprehension – tests your ability to work with electrical conceptsMechanical comprehension – measures your grasp of mechanical concepts Click to try the online practice test. 3 Selection interview Stage 3 of 7 Here’s where we get to know you a little better. You’ll get to showcase your skills and experience, and we’ll answer any questions you have about joining us. Your interview will cover the following topics: EducationEmploymentInterest and motivation for joining the RAF ReservesMilitary awareness and Service Knowledge You’ll be asked a series of standard questions, and you’ll be able to ask your own questions during the debrief afterwards. Some roles require a second interview and/ or test to determine your suitability. These are normally conducted over a 1-3 day period at an RAF base where you’ll be able to see, and experience, the kind of environment you’ll be working in. Details about which interviews are relevant for you will be provided during the application process. 4 Health assessment Stage 4 of 7 You’re legally required to meet certain medical standards, and must pass an occupational health assessment to show you’re fit for military duty. As part of this assessment we will check your overall health, focusing on areas like hearing, eyesight and body mass index. We’ll also investigate any past illnesses and screen for health issues that may prevent you from carrying out your role. Please refer to entry requirements below for more information about the health standards you’ll need to meet. 5 Fitness test Stage 5 of 7 A good level of fitness is critical to joining the RAF, it’s also something that must be maintained throughout your career. You’ll need to complete a Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFT). This will take place at a local gym near to you, and includes a 2.4km run, push up test and a sit-up test. The performance level you’ll need to meet differs by age and gender. Please refer to the entry requirements below for more information about the health standards you’ll need to meet. You can also find help, and a training plan, to assist you in your preparation . 6 Acceptance Stage 6 of 7 If you’ve successfully completed each phase of the application process, you will be invited to attest into the RAF Reserves at your chosen Squadron. 7 Training Stage 7 of 7 Basic Recruit TrainingBasic recruit training takes place at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire over a 15-day period. This residential course includes an introduction to life in the RAF Reserves, military skills training, drills, field training, and team-building exercises.What’s next?After basic recruit training, you will go on to receive role specific training in your spare time. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Must be aged 16–47 (Must attest before 48th birthday).Applicants must also readall ofthe sections below and make sure they meet all entry requirements beforesubmittingan application. EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS Unqualified Chef: No formal qualifications are requiredQualified Chef: You should have at least 12 months of suitable experience working as a chef/cook in a hotel, restaurant, hospital or industrial canteen, or other catering establishment (not fast food). You will also need one of the following: NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Food Preparation and CookingApprenticeship in Commis Chef or Production Chef StandardsAny other appropriate recognised civilian qualification NATIONALITY & RESIDENCY NATIONALITYYou must be a citizen of the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland, holder of dual UK/other nationality or have been a Commonwealth citizen since birth (with ‘right to work’ immigration status). Employment restrictions may be imposed within the Specialisation. Non-British nationals applying for this Specialisation are required to certify that they have been advised of the employment limitations and the consequences of not naturalizing as a British citizen. RESIDENCYWhether or not you were born in the United Kingdom, you should have resided there for the 5 years immediately preceding your application, but candidates with a minimum of 3 years may be considered. If you have resided abroad for a period due to work or study, you may still be eligible on a case by case basis. Please continue this registration and proceed to your full application. FITNESS REQUIREMENTS You must be physically fit to complete both initial and specialist training, and to do your role effectively. As part of the application process you will need to do the Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFT), which takes place at a fitness centre local to you.