Join the Royal Fleet Auxiliary as a Qualified Catering & Support Assistant, and start your career in a role that offers the ultimate travel opportunities, as well as the chance to hone your skills in the art of top-class hospitality, from entertaining dignitaries to helping with first aid and firefighting efforts, in a role that combines your enthusiasm for the service industry with your enthusiasm for service to our country.
If you join as a Qualified Catering & Support Assistant in the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA), you’re building a great career for yourself, one that will really take you places. And it’s not just the catering side of things, as you’ll also get involved with other areas of the ship, such as firefighting, damage control, and helping with first aid.
Your day-to-day tasks will include helping with the service of meals on board, as well as housekeeping of the cabins and other areas. You’ll be a key part of a busy team with a big responsibility, as you’ll be helping the PO/CPO Steward with all aspects of the Logistics Department. This is your chance to use your love of hospitality for a greater cause. Helping protect our country’s interests – and maybe seeing the world.
You’ll be responsible for overseeing catering, accommodation, and social areas on board, playing a key role in maintaining high morale. With many crew members spending months at sea, the comfort and atmosphere you create will make a real difference to daily life.
You’ll also take on essential duties as part of the ship’s company, including firefighting, first aid, and supporting the damage control team when needed.
Your strong organisational skills will help you maintain consistently high standards. While the RFA operates as a civilian organisation, it still represents the nation worldwide—so every visitor must leave with a positive and lasting impression.
Throughout your role, you’ll gain hands-on experience across all areas of hospitality. One day you might be helping to organise a diplomatic reception, and the next you could be serving distinguished guests at high-profile events.
Start earning from day one, with a salary of over £34,300
Enjoy 21 days of paid leave for every month you serve on board
Take advantage of a generous Career Average Occupational Pension Scheme
Receive world-class, comprehensive training to support your growth
Get the opportunity to travel and experience different parts of the world
Benefit from subsidised travel and accommodation
Must be aged 17 years 6 months or older to apply, and 18 years or older to start employment. There is no maximum age requirement.
NVQ Level 2 in Hospitality Services, or Level 2 Certification in Hospitality or Catering Principles – Hospitality Services, or equivalent.
Foundation Food Certificate or Level 2 Food Safety Certificate, and a level of experience gained within the hospitality and catering industry.
Must be British or have indefinite leave to remain with 5 years residency within the UK. Dual nationality will be considered if the first nationality is British.
Need to have confidence in jumping into water and the ability to wade while wearing a life jacket.
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