You'll find there's no such thing as 'day-to-day' as an Officer in the Air Force. It's an ever changing blend of people, places, technology and more. Your team is your responsibility and it's up to you to get the most out of them, while at the same time establishing your own career through the decisions you make every day.

Your Career

Depending on the job you are interested in, there may be a number of methods of entry open to you. Obviously the choice of entry is dependent upon a number of factors such as your education and qualifications.

Most Officer positions require tertiary education (which you can complete at the Defence Force Academy or even while sponsored at another university). However, some Officer positions require no tertiary qualification at all, just a pass in Year 12.

Direct Entry Officer

If you already have a job with the necessary career qualifications, you can enter the Air Force as a Direct Entry Officer. Not only will you take up a management position when you start, but you'll enjoy a competitive salary and fantastic benefits from day one. Not only that, you'll get to use your skills in ways and places you never imagined for a career that's anything but ordinary.

Australian Defence Force Academy

The Australian Defence Force Academy in Canberra is a campus of the University of New South Wales. There you can study a range of degrees in Arts, Sciences, Technology and Engineering. Once you have completed your study, you'll graduate with a degree from one of Australia's most highly regarded universities, and take on a job in your chosen field.

Undergraduate

As an Air Force Sponsored Undergraduate, you'll continue your study at your chosen University. But the best part is you'll be paid to study, your HECS fees will be covered and you'll receive a text book allowance, along with a heap of other great benefits. You'll also get the chance to do work experience throughout the year, and once you've graduated, you'll walk straight into a job as an Officer in the Air Force.

All Officers can expect to earn approximately the same upon commencement of full-time employment, regardless of what job you are wishing to pursue. However, factors such as the rank you receive when you join and whether you are bringing any qualifications to your role will determine your starting salary. The following gives you an idea of the starting salary you might expect.

Officer Starting Salary

Admin/Logistics $40,000
Aircrew $47,000
Medical/Dental $40,000 - $58,000
Military specific $40,000
Technical $40,000
Non-Technical $40,000

For more comprehensive information on what it is like to be in the Air Force go to the Air Force section of the defencejobs website or call 131901

Watch Air Force people at work