Could you become part of the world’s most elite amphibious force and wear the coveted green beret? It’s not for everybody, that’s for sure. Digging deep to aim high, you’ll stop for nothing. In the most hostile environments, and on the most treacherous terrain. There’s no such thing as an average day in the Royal Marines, and there’s no such thing as an average Commando. You’ll need to be exceptional just like the rest of your team, with the same ethos – and the same state of mind.
Royal Marines Commando
You’ll become part of the Royal Navy’s elite amphibious force, operating in some of the most extreme environments in the world.
Start your application
This role is classed as a RBP Royal Marines Other Ranks. As part of your application process, we’ll help you find the most suitable role based on your skills and experience.
Register interest- £26,334 - £64,790
- No qualifications
- Royal Marines
- Rating level
About the role
- Play a key role in dealing with manmade, humanitarian and naturally occurring crises. Your missions will be varied, ranging from amphibious assaults and humanitarian aid, to large scale combat operations.
- Deploy to where you’re needed most, from the coldest climes and the hottest deserts, to the most hostile jungles and the highest mountains. Whatever challenges you face, you’ll need to adapt to get the job done.
- Develop your military skills, before selecting a specialisation to become anything from an Armourer to a Mountain Leader.
- Travel the world, protecting your nation’s interests as part of a team renowned for its strength of unity. You’ll form ties – special bonds with your comrades – that will never be broken.
- Salary of more than £26,334 as soon as you start training
- Earn over £26,334 after receiving your green beret, potentially rising to over £64,790 as your career progresses
- Earn additional pay if you specialise in certain disciplines
- Six weeks of paid holiday every year
- Free medical and dental care
- Subsidised travel and accommodation
- Excellent pension scheme
- Adventurous training
Qualifications you'll gain
- HM Forces Level 2 Apprenticeship including functional skills Maths and English level 1 gained during recruit training
- There are various civilian qualifications available dependent upon which specialist qualification a Marine goes on to pursue
Skills you'll develop
- First-class leadership, and world-class teamwork
- Essential military skills, as well as a specialisation such as abseiling, assault engineering or combat intelligence
- Aged 16 to 32 when you start training (You can start your application from 15 years and 9 months old however you must be at least 16 years old on day of entry to basic training)
- No qualifications are required for this role
- You must be a United Kingdom national, or Commonwealth citizen, or Dual National. Dual Nationality restrictions do apply
- Minimum height of 145cm
- A maximum BMI of 28 (there may be some exceptions to this maximum if your waist measures less than 94cm)
- A minimum weight of 65kg or a minimum BMI of 23
- The ability to pass the swimming assessment during the Royal Marine Candidate Preparation Course
- A true team player, self-discipline
- Physical fitness and mental robustness
- Positivity in the face of adversity
- The ability to cope well under pressure
My green beret is very special. It shows that I’m part of a team that always gets the job done, whatever the situation, and whatever obstacles are in our way.
Career Progression
From responsibilities to pay, find out where this role can take you.
Day One
Start ROP and then Initial Training, spending 32 weeks at CTCRM, Lympstone
Year One
Join a Commando Unit as a General Duties Rifleman, typically for two years
First Promotion
Pass Corporal’s Leadership Development Course, Tactical Commander Level Two Course and specialist course, becoming a Corporal
Second Promotion
Pass Sergeant’s Leadership Development Course, Tactical Commander Level One Course and specialist course, becoming a Sergeant
Third promotion
Pass Warrant Officer Leadership Development Course, becoming a Warrant Officer Class 2
Fourth promotion
Pass Final Selection Board, becoming a Warrant Officer Class One
Joining Process
From picking your role to starting on your first day, these are the steps you'll take to join as a rating.
- Register your interest
- Complete your application
- Defence Aptitude Assessment (DAA)
- Selection interview
- Fitness assessment
- Attend the Royal Marine Candidate Preparation Course (RM CPC)
- Start training
Register your interest
Find the right profession and entry level for you, make sure you meet the basic eligibility criteria, and register your interest online.
Once you’ve registered, you’ll receive an email with more details about your chosen profession, along with an invitation to speak with our friendly recruitment team about any questions or concerns you might have.
Start your application
Find your place in the Royal Navy. Make friends for life, learn new skills and experience the world.
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