Royal Air Force (RAF)

Job Overview

The Royal Air Force (RAF) is recruiting dedicated Operating Department Practitioners (ODPs) to join its world-class medical team. In this role, you’ll provide essential peri-operative care and ensure the smooth running of military operating theatres. From assisting in surgeries to supporting emergency missions, your skills will save lives both in the UK and abroad.

This is more than a job—it’s a calling. You’ll be trained to deliver the same level of medical care you’d find in any leading hospital, but with the added challenge and pride of serving your country. Whether you’re already qualified or just starting your journey in healthcare, the RAF will give you the training, structure, and experience to thrive.

Key Responsibilities

• Support surgical teams in anaesthetic, scrub, and recovery phases
• Prepare and maintain surgical instruments and theatre equipment
• Assist with resuscitation and emergency procedures
• Maintain sterile environments and infection-control standards
• Provide first surgical assistance and postoperative care
• Participate in military exercises and deployments across the globe
• Contribute to the planning and coordination of medical operations

Every day brings a new challenge—one day you may assist in a complex surgery, the next you could be providing emergency care during an overseas mission.

Requirements & Eligibility

Education & Qualifications

• Unqualified Candidates:
  Minimum of 112 UCAS points and GCSEs (or equivalent) in:

  • English Language – Grade C/4

  • Mathematics – Grade C/4

  • Science – Grade C/4
    (Refer to Birmingham City University website for accepted Level 3 qualifications.)

• Qualified Candidates:
  Must be fully registered with the HCPC (Health and Care Professions Council) in the UK and practicing as an Operating Department Practitioner.

Age & Residency

• Applicants must be 17 to 47 years old (must attest before 48th birthday).
• Must meet UK nationality and residency criteria.

Physical & Health Requirements

• Meet RAF medical and fitness standards.
• Pass a Fitness Test (2.4 km run) based on age and gender.
• Clear background, health, and security checks.

Career Growth & Training

Your professional development is central to the RAF’s mission. You’ll receive comprehensive training that builds your skills and confidence from day one.

Phase One – Basic Recruit Training

Duration: 10 weeks

Location: RAF Halton, Buckinghamshire
Learn military discipline, leadership, teamwork, and resilience. This training prepares you mentally and physically for your RAF career.

Phase Two – Specialist ODP Training

Gain advanced medical knowledge and hands-on experience across anaesthetics, scrub, and recovery units. Training may take place at RCDM Birmingham, RCDM Oxford, or JHG Portsmouth.

Career Progression

After completing your initial service and training, you can be promoted to Air Specialist (Class 1) and later advance into senior medical or management roles. Many ODPs go on to become senior clinical educators, healthcare managers, or join specialist RAF medical units.

Transferable Skills

Your RAF experience will prepare you for a civilian career at the top of your field. You’ll earn qualifications that are fully recognized in the UK healthcare system, opening doors to NHS and private sector opportunities.

Benefits

Being part of the RAF comes with outstanding personal and professional benefits:

• Starting Pay: £26,300+ annually, with steady increases through rank and experience
• Free or discounted food and accommodation
• Free gym and fitness facilities
• Subsidised travel and healthcare
• World travel opportunities
• Pension and paid leave
• Educational support – RAF may fund further studies
• Unmatched work-life balance and camaraderie

You’ll also enjoy a sense of purpose that few other careers can offer.

Why This Job Matters

Operating Department Practitioners are the backbone of RAF medical operations. When a service member is injured, it’s your expertise that ensures they receive immediate, life-saving care. You’ll play a direct role in humanitarian efforts, peacekeeping missions, and global deployments where medical readiness is critical. Your impact won’t just be on the battlefield—you’ll also support families, veterans, and local communities, representing the best of British medical excellence.

Application Process

Joining the RAF follows a structured and supportive process:

1. Online Application – Submit your details via the official RAF careers site.
2. Selection Interview – Discuss your background, skills, and motivation for joining.
3. Health & Fitness Assessment – Ensure you meet the medical standards required.
4. Specialist Interview – Assess your suitability for the ODP role.
5. Acceptance & Offer – Receive your formal invitation to join.
6. Training Begins – Start your journey at RAF Halton.

The process helps ensure both you and the RAF are the right fit for one another.

How to Apply

To begin your RAF career as an Operating Department Practitioner, visit the official recruitment site:
👉 Apply Here → RAF Careers Portal

Career Opportunities Beyond the Role

As you grow, you’ll have the chance to move into leadership, education, or advanced clinical roles. Many ODPs pursue careers in:

• Critical care and emergency medicine
• Military healthcare leadership
• Education and training within the RAF or the NHS
• Humanitarian medical missions

With global experience and transferable qualifications, your career options are endless.

FAQs

Q1. Do I need previous military experience?

No. Full military and medical training will be provided if you’re not already qualified.

Q2. Can I apply if I’m currently a civilian ODP?

Yes. Qualified practitioners can apply directly and receive tailored training.

Q3. What if I don’t meet the UCAS requirements?

You may still be eligible. Contact the RAF recruitment team to explore alternative routes.

Q4. Is there an age limit?

You must be between 17 and 47 years old when you start training.

Q5. Will I have to travel?

Yes, RAF ODPs often work in various locations across the UK and overseas missions.

Disclaimer

This job listing is provided for informational purposes only. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, applicants should always verify the latest details, requirements, and benefits on the official Royal Air Force Careers website before applying. Salaries, eligibility, and training requirements are subject to change based on government and defense policies.