Do you want to train as a HGV Driver? Do you want to be part of a close-knit team of adventurous people? The British Army Reserve Forces are looking for 10 new drivers to join their team, 202 Squadron, based at the Army Reserve Centre in Colchester.
This is a paid part-time Army Reservist role, for which full training is provided. The successful applicant will receive £58 per day (including for days spent training) plus upon meeting the training requirements, the successful applicant will receive a £526 tax-free bonus (known as a bounty). In the first year, the successful applicant could earn about £5,000 in this Army Reserve Driver role (depending on number of days spent training). As a Driver, you will be able to claim fuel allowance to aid towards travel expenses to the Army Reserve Centre. Successful applicants will join the Army Reserve pension scheme.
The successful applicants will also experience adventure and sports expeditions as part of their Army Reserve experience. 202 Squadron members can take part in sports and adventure challenges in the UK and abroad including: caving, hill walking, mountain biking, skiing and kayaking.
Plus, once attested, the successful applicant will have 24/7 access to the Squadron’s fully equipped on-site gym. Your basic training will give you military skills such as tactics, weapons-handling and map-reading. Free on-site parking is available at the Army Reserve Centre.
You do not need a HGV licence to apply, as full training is provided, but holding a valid HGV licence is an advantage. Applicants will need a reasonable standard in English, Maths and Science (Ideally, but not essential: GCSE scores 4 or above). Applicants will need to be competent using a computer, using apps and online learning platforms.
Training takes place on Tuesday evenings from 7:30pm to 9:30pm at Colchester Army Reserve Centre, and one weekend per month, plus a two-week annual camp in the summer. The successful applicant will be expected to balance their day job with their British Army Reserve Driver training. You will not need to quit your day job to work as a Driver in the Army Reserve. You will need to train for up to 40 days a year. Although there’s no legal requirement for your employer to allow you extra time off for training, many are happy to do so. If you need any support arranging this, it will be provided by your Army Reserve unit.
Applicants will be required to pass a medical test and be eligible to join the Armed Forces. Initially, you’ll complete an online medical questionnaire, then have an interview with your Careers Adviser. You’ll be invited to attend a 2-day assessment, which includes a full medical assessment and basic numeracy and literacy tests. Once you’ve been offered employment, you’ll start your initial training.
You must meet the Armed Forces medical entry standard to join the Army Reserve. Check the full criteria and which medical conditions may prevent you from joining. You can still apply to join the British Army Reserve even if your medical history includes one or more of these conditions. Your application will be assessed on its own merits against medical standards for entry. The Army helps develop your fitness but you will need to meet some basic requirements before you start training.
Responsibilities:
- Conduct driving tasks in support of Regimental activity.
- Operate and maintain military vehicles in accordance with current regulations.
- Ensure all subunit vehicle servicing and inspections are conducted within the correct timelines.
- Provide HGV/Land Rover support to subunit and Regimental events.
- Maintain core currency and complete all Military Annual Training Tests (MATT).
The closing date for this round of applications is 15th January 2024. Questions about this role and the Army Reserves should be directed to Bill Holland, in charge of recruitment at 158 Regiment Royal Logistic Corps: William.holland675@mod.gov.uk. Any applications made after this date will still be received however the successful applicant may see the start of their training delayed as a result.
To apply for this role, login to your British Army applicant account or register a new account and select 158 Regiment RLC at Bedford as your preferred unit.
