What could you do in the RFA?

The Royal Fleet Auxiliary is made up of three core branches, with specialist personnel who make a vital contribution to every operation, every day. These highly skilled and dedicated people are essential to the crew’s three key functions; operating, repairing and providing for the ship.

The essential replenishment at sea operations and support we provide for the Royal Navy wouldn’t be possible without our exceptional sailors and their crewmates. From the engineers who keep us moving, to the chefs who keep everyone going.

If you’re applying to the RFA there are lots of different roles available across all branches, but your eligibility will depend on your qualifications and age. Take a look at what you could do in the RFA.

What we do

Technical

For our state-of-the-art fleet to cover thousands of miles providing maritime operational support we need world-class engineers. We have roles that allow you to specialise in electrical/electronic engineering or mechanical engineering. In the RFA these specialisations are called systems and marine engineering. 

Deck

A key part of the RFA’s role is the replenishment at sea operations that transfer supplies and fuel to Royal Navy warships. It takes a team of the most exceptional sailors on the planet to get to where we’re needed, and then to carry out the most complex maritime operations imaginable – in any conditions.

 A sub branch of Deck is Communications. Like any merchant navy, communication is key to the safety of our ships and the success of our operations. But in the RFA, it’s not just about signalling to civilian vessels and receiving weather information. Our lines of communication can never go down, because the team of people who send our messages are playing an essential role in keeping the Royal Navy fighting fit.

Logistics

To ensure our crews have everything they need, and that the Royal Navy ships we service have all the right supplies to do their job, we need a team of talented logisticians. They source vital supplies from local and international organisations. But the role of the Logistics branch doesn’t end there. Our chefs, stewards and medical technicians also do crucial work making sure our ships are a home from home for their crewmates and any embarked forces personnel.

Officer Cadetships

For many young people, gaining higher qualifications and starting a meaningful career are mutually exclusive. With a RFA Officer Cadetship, you can work toward an HND, foundation degree and industry recognised professional qualifications, all while preparing for life at sea, and doing valuable work all over the world.

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Apprenticeships

We rely on our experienced personnel and the seasoned sailors who have the knowledge to adapt to any situation. But we need enthusiastic and talented new blood. Our apprenticeships are for people who want to learn their trade on the job, where it matters most – and gain the skills for life at the same time.

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Qualified Rating

It takes a lot of skill and hard work to keep our ships moving, and our operations on track. As a rating, you’ll have the opportunity to be part of a close-knit team, developing your skills and gaining industry recognised qualifications.

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Qualified Officer

If you’ve got the right experience and qualifications, you could join our leadership and management team, showing the way to your junior crewmates on operations, all over the world. It’s a life at sea with real responsibility – and the rewards to match.

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Sound good? Visit our Role Finder for more information on the full range of opportunities available and to check your eligibility for your chosen role.

Find out more

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