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Qualified Systems Engineer Officer (RFA)
Job Role

Qualified Systems Engineer Officer (RFA)

You’ll have overall responsibility for the vital electronics and communication systems that make every operation possible.

TechnologyCiviliansEngineeringHands on
  • MCA Certified
  • Royal Fleet Auxiliary
  • Engineering
  • Officer level

At a glance

You’ll take overall responsibility for the vital electronics and communication systems that make every operation possible. From the Bridge, to the Engine Room, you’ll be part of a team maintaining a broad range of kit, gaining the experience you need to become a Chartered Engineer.
RFA SE Engineers carrying out vital maintenance on RFA Mounts Bay
The breadth of electrical systems makes this a challenging role with a loads of responsibility. There’s a lot of variety, which I love, but it’s the people that really make it.

Iain

Systems Engineer Officer

Role details

What you’ll do

As a Qualified Systems Engineer Officer in the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA), you’ll take overall responsibility for the vital electronics and communication systems that make every operation possible. The work you do will cover all areas of the ship. From the Bridge, to the Engine Room, you’ll lead a team in maintaining a broad range of complex systems, tackling a new challenge every day and gaining the experience you need to become a Chartered Engineer.

Your role

  • Work on everything from navigational aids, electronic and communication equipment, to PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) control and automation systems.
  • Collaborate with experts from the Marine Engineering, Deck and Logistics departments, exploring the different disciplines and developing skills that will stay with you throughout your career.
  • Act as mentor to the junior members of your team, and provide leadership to the senior rates who will rely on your advice and guidance as they tackle complex challenges every.
  • Without the ability to communicate with, and navigate to Royal Navy warships around the globe, we’d be unable to complete vital Replenishment at Sea operations.

Pay & benefits

  • Earn £37,700+ from the day you start
  • Earned Voyage Leave (EVL) of 21 days for every month spent on board ship
  • Membership of a Civil Service Pension scheme 
  • World-class training
  • Potential to travel the world
     

Skills for life

Qualifications you'll gain

  • A streamlined path to becoming a Chartered Engineer
  • MCA certification that is financially supported by the RFA

Skills you'll develop

  • An in-depth knowledge of Marine Engineering principles
  • The ability to lead and manage a highly skilled team
     

 

Eligibility

  • Aged at least 17 years 6 months to apply, and 18 years to commence employment. There is no upper age limit
  • ENG1 medical certificate, unrestricted for worldwide sea service
  • Mandatory:
    MCA certified
    OR
    A minimum of an HNC (or equivalent) in Electrical/Electronic Engineering + At least 2 years relevant sea service.
    OR
    A minimum of an HND (or equivalent) in Electrical/Electronic Engineering + At least 2 years relevant industry experience.
  • Preferred:
    Degree or HND in Electrical/Electronic Engineering + an STCW AIII/6 ETO Certificate of Competency.
  • Must be British, Irish or Commonwealth citizens. However, a number of career paths have nationality restrictions. Dual Nationality will be considered providing the first nationality is British. Note: Residency restrictions may apply

Skills & Interests

  • An ability to thrive on responsibility and lead from the front
  • Confidence making key decisions in high-pressure situations
  • A problem solver, with a common sense approach, who can work well as part of a team
  • A passion for the latest technology

Joining Process

From picking your role to starting on your first day, these are the steps you'll take to join as a rating.

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