Job: Air Cartographer, The Royal Air Force - Liverpool

Air Cartographers produce the maps, charts and books that play an essential role in providing aeronautical data for flying missions to be conducted safely and successfully.

Your role could be to process digital mapping for use in frontline aircraft cockpit displays and mission planning systems, or update the aeronautical charts that guide our pilots safely through take-off and landing. Also, you could be updating charts that detail obstructions such as buildings and power lines that enable fast jets and helicopters to navigate safely at low level; or creating charts showing airways over countries all around the world used by the transport fleet to carry troops to where they are needed.

You’ll use the latest Geographic Information System (GIS) software to create and edit charts and publications and use state-of-the-art printing presses. All our Air Cartographers are based at RAF Northolt, west of London.

Entry Qualifications

Age limits

16–29

Academic qualifications

You need at least GCSEs/SCEs at Grade C/3 or equivalent in English language, maths and ICT or equivalent eg IT literate in all Microsoft products or GIS software.

Entry tests

You must pass a test at the AFCO. Additionally, you will attend a two-day specialist interview at RAF Northolt, which will give you a greater insight into the role and working environment of the Air Cartographer. This interview not only gives you an appreciation of the trade, to help you with your final decision, but also allows staff to assess your potential and suitability for training.

Nationality

You must have been a citizen of the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth or the Republic of Ireland since birth.

Residency

Whether or not you were born in the United Kingdom, you should normally have resided there for the three years immediately preceding your application.

Equal opportunities

The RAF values every individual’s unique contribution, irrespective of race, ethnic origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation or social background.