Cyber Unit Reserve

From WikiLeaks to the Panama Papers, the landscape of modern warfare has changed dramatically. Cyber security is a ground-breaking area at the vanguard of our nation’s defence. Serving in the Reserve Cyber Unit makes you part of one of the most advanced areas of the Royal Navy.

If you have proven, in-depth technical knowledge, joining the Joint Cyber Reserve means you can make a real difference, work at the leading edge of technology – and make an essential contribution to safeguarding our national security. It’s a challenging role that will put you through your paces, but will give you experience that you simply won’t get anywhere else.

Selection into the Cyber Branch will recognise the unique attributes and potential contribution of individuals who might otherwise not be attracted or able to serve in the Reserve forces.

• Learn new, specialist skills with career-enhancing training that will be invaluable – and highly desirable – in the commercial sector.
• The Joint Cyber Reserve is a tri-service collaboration, so you’ll work with Reservists from all three Armed Services.
• You might be granted a high level of security clearance for a secret mission, or be given specialist training for an ongoing operation. 
• You’ll play a crucial role in this essential part of protecting our nation’s interests.

• Extra pay and allowances if you’re mobilised
• Annual tax-free bounty subject to meeting the minimum training commitment
• Paid leave in proportion to the number of training days attended
• Automatic membership of the non-contributory Armed Forces Pension Scheme
• Expenses and allowances when training
• Access to the Royal Navy’s superb sports and fitness facilities

Qualifications you'll gain

• Develop your professional knowledge and experience
• Increase your self-confidence

Skills you'll develop

• Grow your decision making, communication and analytical skills
• The ability to work in a demanding new environment

• You need to be aged 16 to 50, (or 56 if you're serving or ex-regular Royal Navy), when you start your training
• You need exceptional cyber skills, see full list of required skills here
• You must be able to commit to the minimum annual training
• You need to use spare time and weekends in order to support defence’s cyber security mission
• You must be a British or a Dual National
• You’ll have lived in the UK for the last 10 years
• You must be willing to undergo and pass a Developed Vetting (DV) security clearance process
• A Body Mass Index (BMI) between 18 and 28 (between 17 and 27 if under 18)
• Pass the Naval Swimming Test

• Exceptional, verifiable cyber skills
• High level of problem-solving ability
• Ability to stay calm under pressure