Royal Marines Commando

Also known as:

Commando, Royal Marines
Marines Commando
Navy Serviceman (Royal Marines)

Introduction

The Royal Marines is the frontline fighting force of the Royal Navy. Royal Marines operate in a wide range of conditions, from tropical jungles to the freezing Arctic. Physical fitness is vitally important. Entry as a Royal Marines Commando is open to men only.

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Work Activities

Royal Marines Commandos belong to the Royal Navy's frontline fighting force. Marines operate at sea, in the air and on land - and are trained in jungle, mountain and Arctic warfare techniques.

Marines are trained to make landings and to secure a footing on every type of coastline. They use small, light craft and large landing craft to carry them and their vehicles. Helicopters are also used to transport commandos inland as part of assault operations.

Some Royal Marines serve on board Royal Navy ships, taking part in naval operations. A small number are selected for the Special Boat Service, which carries out secret operations.

There are 21 specialisations in the Royal Marines; most commandos start out as general duties specialists; some specialise in other trades, such as: chef, assault engineer, driver, yeoman of signals, mountain leader or medical assistant.

The Royal Marines Band Service is open to men and women with musical ability. Although they are not commandos, they undergo physical training and serve on board ship or on land.

As with other careers in the armed forces, commandos must be prepared to live and serve anywhere in the UK and overseas. They must be prepared to work in the most difficult, dangerous (and sometimes life-threatening) conditions.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

You need to be physically fit.

You need stamina, quick reactions, a sense of responsibility and a readiness to obey orders. You must be able to work as a member of a team. You must be able to remain calm under pressure and be adaptable in rapidly changing circumstances.

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Pay and Opportunities

The pay rates given below are approximate.

The basic rate of pay for a Royal Marines commando on entry is £13,013, rising to £16,227 on completion of training. After this, pay rates vary, depending on specialism and length of service. Pay increases further with promotion.

Hours of work for marines vary depending on operational requirements, but may include shifts, early starts, late finishes, weekend work and working on public holidays. As a commando, you may need to work at short notice, and you should expect to work longer hours during military exercises or on operational missions.

Entry is highly competitive but there are shortages, so if you have the right combination of qualities, you have a good chance of entry. Opportunities exist for senior non-commissioned officers (SNCOs) to become commissioned officers later in their career, although competition is fierce.

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Adult Opportunities

Age limits apply to this occupation.

You must be under 26 (on 1st September of the year of entry).

For further information, contact your local armed forces careers office.

The standard entry requirements apply to all applicants, regardless of age.

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Further Information

Contact your local Royal Navy and Royal Marines careers information office or armed forces careers office.

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