Medical Support Officer Job in Building 60 Recruiting by Royal Air Force

What will you do?

Medical Support Officers (MSOs) provide essential Health Service Support (HSS) to both the RAF Medical Services and the wider Defence Medical Services. MSOs can be employed in any of the healthcare sectors, . Primary or Secondary care. Typical duties include:

Healthcare leadership and management

Operational medical planning

Medical logistics to sustain overseas deployments

Medical capability, development and acquisition.

Design and delivery of medical training for practitioners and HSS personnel

Minimum Education Requirements

Have GCSE at Grade C/4-5 or SCE Standard Grades at Grade 2/Scottish National 5 in English Language, Maths and three other subjects

Have at least 2 A2 Levels/3 Highers at Grade C or above (excluding General Studies or Critical Thinking) which must total a minimum of 64 UCAS points

You will either need experience of leadership or at least 2 years of proven experience of Healthcare Delivery, or a health-related degree level qualification. - details below

Minimum Education Requirements

Have a minimum of 5 GCSE / SCEs at Grade C/2 minimum or equivalent, including English Language and Mathematics

Have at least 2 A2 Levels/3 Highers at Grade C or above (excluding General Studies or Critical Thinking) which must total a minimum of 64 UCAS points

A clinical healthcare background or NHS management experience

Requirements

Be aged 17.5 – 47 years old (Must attest before 48th birthday)

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 12 years service

Meet the health and fitness criteria

Pass a Fitness test - Details below

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 basis.

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 indefinite leave to remain immigration status)

Commit 27 days per year

Pass a

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: 502 Sqn, JHFS Aldergrove, Co Antrim 600 Sqn, RAF Northolt, Middlesex 612 Sqn, RAF Leuchars, Fife 4626 Sqn, RAF Brize Norton, Oxfordshire CAREER, TRAINING & EDUCATION 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 Initial Officer Training 24 weeks (split) RAF Cranwell RAF officers begin their career by completing the Initial Officer Training Course at the RAF College Cranwell in Lincolnshire. 24 weeks (split) RAF Cranwell Phase one training

You will complete a challenging modular 24-week course, split into 4 distinct terms designed to develop your robustness, fitness, leadership and academic skills through a number of indoor and outdoor exercises across the UK.

02 Phase two training Modular format Ongoing As assigned This is conducted in a modular format during your first two postings and will introduce you to various roles and functions within the RAF Medical Services. Ongoing As assigned Phase two training You will be expected to complete the ground phase of the Aeromedical Evacuation (AE) course which will provide you with the fundamentals of AE, the Air Transportable Isolator (ATI) course where you will learn how to AE highly infectious patients, the Patient Evacuation Coordination Cell (PECC) course as well as the Medical Readiness Training course. There are a variety of additional courses available that will help you build a range of competencies, allowing you to influence your career pathway to where your interests or specialisation may be; for example, medical planning, acquisition management, medical operations, or shaping future digital data and information platforms. The phase 2 and phase 3 training you will receive will provide you with a comprehensive introduction to the RAF Medical Services and the wider Defence Medical Services, while providing you with the knowledge and skills to enable you to enjoy a successful and rewarding career as a RAF MSO. 03 First tour Specialist training Ongoing As assigned Your first tour will help you be managed and mentored to develop as a junior officer. Ongoing As assigned First tour

Whilst subject to Service requirement, first tours may be at Tactical Medical Wing at RAF Brize Norton, HQ Air Command at RAF High Wycombe, or the Centre of Aviation Medicine, RAF Henlow. First tours will help you learn how the RAF and DMS work, and the experience you gain will stand you in good stead for the rest of your career

04 Career prospects Ongoing development Ongoing As assigned You will join the RAF on an Initial Commission of 12 years and, during this time, may be selected to serve on a pension-earning commission of 20 years’ service or age 40, whichever is the later. Ongoing As assigned Career prospects

You will commission as a Pilot Officer and you will be promoted Flying Officer and then Flight Lieutenant on a time and satisfactory service basis. Further promotion to Squadron Leader and above is by competitive selection.

05 Ongoing development Ongoing training Ongoing As assigned As an MSO, you will have extensive opportunities for professional development throughout your career. Ongoing As assigned Ongoing development

This development will be incremental in nature and compatible with your performance, experience and aspirations. MSOs can apply and study for an Undergraduate Degree, Post Graduate Diploma and Masters level qualifications in healthcare related subjects.

There are also opportunities for leadership and management training. In addition, there is an established mentoring scheme, which provides support and guidance to allow you to develop your competencies. Furthermore, all personnel are encouraged to join a professional body, such as the Institute of Health and Social Care Management or the Chartered Managers Institute.

06 Transferable skills Ongoing development Ongoing As assigned The skills and experience you gain throughout your career as a MSO could equip you for a wide range of civilian jobs. Ongoing As assigned Transferable skills

These include: crisis and emergency services, health service management, local government, disaster and humanitarian relief, healthcare logistics and medical training.

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 Initial Training 24 days (split) RAF Cranwell / local 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. 24 days (split) RAF Cranwell / local Phase one training

This is followed by Reserve Officer Initial Training course (ROIT) at RAF College Cranwell in Lincolnshire, comprising up to 4 weekends and a 2-week residential phase. ROIT is designed to build upon the military skills gained during BRTC(R) and cultivate leadership skills through academic study and field exercises.

Culminating in graduation from RAF Officer Training Academy, Cranwell as a Commissioned Officer. You will also undertake the Foundation Airpower training on completion of ROIT.

02 Phase two training Specialist training Ongoing DMA, Staffs 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 DMA, Staffs Phase two training

MSOs’ attend the Introductory RAF Medical Support Officers’ Course at the Defence Medical Academy (DMA) Whittington, Staffordshire.

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 Transferrable skills Ongoing training Ongoing As assigned Much of our in-house training is accredited or recognised by external awarding bodies. Ongoing As assigned Transferrable 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.

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 Filter interview 2 Health Assessment 3 Fitness Test 4 OASC 5 Familiarisation visit 6 Acceptance 7 Training 1 Filter interview Stage 1 of 7

Selection interviews help us get to know you a little better – and vice versa. You’ll get to show your skills and experience, and we’ll answer any questions you have about joining the RAF.

The first of these interviews happens online and covers the following topics:

Family life

Education

Work experience

Special interests or hobbies

Interest in the RAF

2 Health Assessment Stage 2 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. View details below for more information about the health standards you’ll need to meet.

3 Fitness Test Stage 3 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 (PJFC). 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 .

4 OASC Stage 4 of 7

This will be your second visit to the Officer and Aircrew Selection Centre. OASC lasts one day, but you will arrive the day before. During this time the officers will be assessing your leadership, teamwork, communication, motivation, and problem solving.

The day will end with an interview. The first half of the interview covers your achievements at school and college, in sports, your community, at work, and as a cadet, scout or guide.

The second half explores your motivation for joining the RAF – what you know about current affairs and the RAF’s role in the national and international arena, current operations the RAF is involved in and your knowledge about the RAF and the role you've applied for.

5 Familiarisation visit Stage 5 of 7

This takes place over 2 days and is designed to give you an insight into officer training. You’ll be issued with your initial kit, including your boots, attend lectures, and also repeat the fitness test taken at OASC.

6 Acceptance Stage 6 of 7

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.

7 Training Stage 7 of 7

The Modular Initial Officer Training Course (MIOTC) has been designed to set commissioning officers up for their career in the RAF with the right skills and knowledge. This training will provide a solid platform for your continued development.

Visit our for more information about (M)IOT and the rest of officer 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

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 information

Numerical reasoning - ability with basic fractions, decimals and formulae

Work rate - speed and accuracy of tasks

Spatial reasoning - how shapes and objects work

Electrical comprehension - working with electrical concepts

Mechanical comprehension - grasp of mechanical concepts

Memory - Ability to remember information accurately

Click to find out more about the Defence Aptitude Assessment (DAA) and 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 take place at a local AFCO and cover the following topics:

Family life

Education

Work experience

Special interests and hobbies

Interest in the RAF

Training

The role you’ve applied for

The 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.

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 (PJFC). 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 a provisional offer of service interview at your Squadron.

The purpose of this interview is to ensure you understand the terms and conditions of service in the RAF, are fully committed to joining, and prepared to commence training.

7 Training Stage 7 of 7

Basic Recruit Training

Basic 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

Applicants must e aged between 17.5 and 47 years old (Must attest before 48th birthday).

Applicants must also read all of the sections below and make sure they meet all entry requirements before submitting an application.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

Have these minimum grades:

GCSE GCSE 2017 SNE English Language CGrade 4Grade 5 Mathematics CGrade 4Grade 5 Three other subjects CGrade 4Grade 5

Have at least 2 A2 Levels/3 Highers at Grade C or above (excluding General Studies or Critical Thinking) which must total a minimum of 64 UCAS points

Have a relevant degree level qualification or at least 2 years of proven experience of Healthcare Delivery.

.

NATIONALITY & RESIDENCY

NATIONALITY
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).

RESIDENCY
Whether 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. To check your fitness levels, we put every candidate through at least two separate fitness tests as part of the application process.

The first of these is the Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFT) which takes place at a fitness centre local to you.