Survival Equipment Fitter

Team:                                    

Aircrew Reception

Role Title:                          

Safety Equipment Specialist

Location:                            

Fairford, Gloucestershire

Role Grade:                       

Volunteer

TEAM Manager:         

Aircrew Coordinator

 

About us:

We are a Charitable Trust Enterprise whose mission is to Promote the Royal Air Force through a programme of world-class events and activities. In conjunction with our charity, The Royal Air Force Charitable Trust, we will Inspire young people, both inside the RAF and outside the Service, to fulfil their potential in air and space.  

About the role:

We are looking for enthusiastic, friendly, confident people who will enjoy engaging with crews from around the world.  We need people with a “can-do” attitude, who are willing to get involved and be part of a dynamic and hardworking team. 

The Aircrew Hub is the base that provides support for crews participating in the Air Tattoo, comprising the Flight Centre, Briefing Hangar and the Crew Club.  The Flight Centre is the central facility used to induct visiting crews participating in the Air Tattoo.  During the period of aircraft arrivals, the Flight Centre is a secure facility with staff that manage UK Border controls, security passes, accommodation provision, on and off-base crew transportation, flight planning and the management of the static and flying displays.   

The visiting crews are our “customers”, and we want to ensure they receive a warm welcome in the United Kingdom, and a high level of service throughout the show; firstly, to be sure that we represent the country and RAFCTE in the best possible light, but also to encourage them to spread the good word of RIAT so that they and their colleagues want to return year after year. The Aircrew Reception Team have a vital role in the smooth running of the crew experience and supporting our international crews. 

As part of the Aircrew Reception Team & Flight Centre, we offer secure storage to all participants for storage of their flying clothing and survival equipment, such as flying helmets and life jackets, to avoid these items being taken off site to hotels etc. Our two Safety Equipment Handlers are responsible for receipt of such items from participants and overseeing their safe/secure storage of the equipment (no maintenance/servicing of the equipment is carried out). 

Main Responsibilities will include:

Survival Equipment Storage:

  • Receipt and handling of participants' equipment (such as flying helmets, life jackets and immersion suits) from crews, into storage facilities. 
  • Managing the safe and secure storage of received survival equipment. 
  • Ensure an effective book in/out system for crews in flying displays. 
  • Support the prompt departures of participants from the airshow through the efficient return of their equipment.  
  • Provide support to Aircrew Reception Team activities as required.  

skills required

  • Knowledge of flying clothing and survival equipment, and a SQEP specialist with this equipment (Essential).  
  • Knowledge and experience with non-UK (NATO) flying clothing and equipment (Desirable). 
  • Currently serving military, or as a contractor working alongside military aviation, with a survival equipment handling qualification (Desirable).

What commitment is required?

  • Arrival at Fairford on the Tuesday prior to the show (by 12.00 hrs) 
  • Working Wednesday to Monday 
  • Departure from Fairford on Monday afternoon 

What you get in return for volunteering:  

  • To be at the centre of an exciting and busy hub at the heart of RIAT, alive with activity with like-minded individuals all willing to go the extra mile. 
  • Exposure to a unique environment with the opportunity to interact and engage with aircrew from all over the world. 
  • Accommodation (Glamping Tent) provided free of charge at RAF Fairford. 
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner provided free of charge daily at the Airfield Diner. 
  • RIAT Branded polo shirts to wear during your volunteering at RIAT. 
  • Two complimentary tickets for the Air Tattoo (Friday or Sunday) 
  • A great experience working with an amazing team! 

Travel:

In line with our sustainability commitment, we strongly encourage volunteers to car share wherever possible, and/or utilise public transport.

The following is in place to support our volunteers with any out-of-pocket expenses.   

  • Motor Mileage: Claim 45p per mile (maximum 315 miles) return mileage to RIAT and to encourage car sharing, an additional 5p per additional passenger may be claimed by the vehicle driver.   
  • Train Fare: Travel should be standard class; reimbursement will be made up to the maximum claim amount (£100.00) on the production of receipts, tickets, or confirmation email.  

Next steps

Interested applicants should create an account and complete an application form which can be found here.