JPAN: 1611905
Grade: OR7 Chief Petty Officer / Staff Sergeant / Flight Sergeant
Location: Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 3GX
Contract: 37 hours per week, 3-year contract, Partial Mobility
Security clearance: UKSV Security Check (SC) + BPSS
Closing date: 10/11/25, 2355
All offers of employment are subject to UK security clearance. To gain this clearance, applicants normally need at least five years’ UK residency.
Overview
The ZigZag Career Pathway is an innovative Defence initiative that offers new ways of entering the Armed Forces. It’s a pilot programme that opens the door for people from a range of professional backgrounds to apply their skills in meaningful Defence roles.
This opportunity is open to civilians, veterans and reservists. Whether you’ve never served before or are looking to return, the ZigZag Career Pathway offers you the chance to work in fixed-term military roles that are matched to your qualifications and experience.
ZigZag roles are offered with a choice of mobility commitment. Successful candidates will be supported with tailored onboarding, the right level of training, and a structured induction into the Armed Forces environment.
1710 Naval Air Squadron (1710 NAS) is a specialist Royal Navy unit providing expert engineering support, scientific analysis, and recovery services for aviation assets worldwide. Operating in the UK and overseas, 1710 NAS ensures the safety and readiness of aircraft through rapid response, technical innovation, and forensic investigation. For more information please visit: https://www.royalnavy.mod.uk/organisation/units-and-squadrons/support-and-training/1710-squadron.
The role
We are seeking a Safety Engineer to lead hazard assessments, safety reviews, and risk mitigation for military aircraft modifications. You will ensure compliance with airworthiness and operational standards, applying specialist safety engineering knowledge to real-world Defence aviation challenges.
Key Responsibilities
* Develop and deliver safety and environmental assessments for aircraft modifications, including Safety Assessment Reports and Environmental Case Reports
* Lead hazard identification, risk analysis, and implement effective risk mitigation measures across the modification lifecycle
* Chair and contribute to Safety Review Meetings and HAZID workshops, ensuring strong safety governance and stakeholder engagement
* Ensure compliance with Defence Standards, MAA regulations, and other military and civilian safety frameworks
* Support the Safety Management System (SMS), mentor junior staff, and promote safety best practice across engineering teams
About You
We are looking for a motivated aviation safety engineer or safety specialist with the expertise to make a real impact on Defence aviation programmes.
* Demonstrated experience in hazard identification, risk analysis, and risk mitigation within engineering or aviation safety
* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, able to make evidence-based decisions from technical data
* Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence across technical and operational domains
* In-depth knowledge of safety management principles and documentation, including hazard logs, safety assessments, and safety cases
* Eligible for UKSV Security Clearance, with flexibility to travel nationally when required
Salary & benefits
* Salary: £51,188 - £54,582 per year
* Pension: automatic enrolment in the Armed Forces Pension Scheme 2015 (opt-out available)
* Leave: 30 days’ annual leave plus eight UK bank holidays
* Other benefits: Childcare benefits, enhanced parental leave packages, and flexible service arrangements
Application process
* Application: Submit your CV and complete the RN application form via the SERVE portal. Eligibility checks will be completed, and applications sifted for suitability
* Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview covering technical skills, qualifications, and suitability for military service
* Medical Assessment: Candidates who are not already serving must undergo a medical screening
* Offer: Successful candidates will receive terms and conditions, and a job offer letter
Don’t meet all the requirements? Get in touch anyway – we are keen to hear from talented individuals from diverse backgrounds. For questions or more information, contact: People-Tx-ZigZagCareers@mod.gov.uk
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