What is SERVE? 

The Service for Experienced, Re-joiner and Volunteer Engagements (SERVE)  is the Ministry of Defence’s free digital service that offers an easy way to discover Reserve, Re-joiner and wider opportunities in the Armed Forces and to stay connected with Defence.  

SERVE advertises Reserve, re-joiner and wider opportunities across all 3 services, including joint organisations, in one place. It is available through any internet-connected device such as a mobile, desktop or tablet by searching www.findforcesjobs.mod.gov.uk  

Users can explore opportunities across the full range of reserve commitment types, from Full Time Reserve Service (FTRS) and Additional Duties Commitment (ADC) to short-term tasks, along with re-joiner opportunities. 

Searches can be refined by Service, location, branch/cap badge, rank, engagement type or length, specialism, or any combination of these. Once registered, users can also set up notifications, so they receive email alerts when new, relevant, opportunities are posted. 

SERVE’s information panels cover a range of subjects from defence announcements and recruitment campaigns for profession/trade skills, through to signposts to tools and support on other websites.  

Eligibility to apply for positions on SERVE

Any member of the Maritime Reserves RNR, RMR or the Royal Fleet Reserves (RFR) (Ex-Regular) may volunteer to undertake a period of FTRS/ADC. Ex-Regular personnel whose RFR liability has expired may have it re-instated to take up FTRS/ADC. 

Applicants undertaking a period of FTRS/ADC must be suitably qualified by rank/rate, specialisation, qualifications and experience to fill the posts for which they apply. Applications will be accepted from reservists who hold one rank/rate or more above or one rank/rate only below the advertised rank. Applicants one rank below may be employed in the Acting Higher Rank (AHR) if they are suitable, qualified and meet current promotion regulations in all respects however it is stressed that whilst a single positive recommendation will make you eligible for consideration, your entire OJAR/SJAR dossier will be considered for AHR in line with the principles of BR3(1) Part 8 and approval is not guaranteed.  

Applicants prepared to serve in a position at a lower rank/rate will be paid, and dressed, as appropriate to meet the stated requirement of the position. Exceptions will not normally be considered. 

Applicants must also be medically fit to fulfil the duties which their Commitment will require them to undertake. Personnel who have been discharged through the Medical Board of Survey(MBOS) and Employability Board, may be considered, dependent on their RFR liability. 

How to apply for a position on SERVE

To apply for a job via SERVE, you must create an account on the Find Forces Jobs SERVE website and submit your application through the site. After registering, you can search for vacancies, complete the application, and receive updates directly through the platform. Applications submitted through other methods, like email or previous formats, are no longer accepted.  

General application steps 

• Register and log in: Go to the Find Forces Jobs SERVE website and register for an account. 

• Search for jobs: Use the search and filter options to find FTRS vacancies that match your qualifications and experience. 

• Apply directly: Click the “Apply” button on the job listing to start the application process. Some roles and other service roles require you to download and email a specific application form to the designated mailbox, as outlined in the job advertisement  

• Submit required documents: Be prepared to submit all required documents. This typically includes your CV (Curriculum Vitae) and your last three Annual Reports. (Contact the FTRS Cell if you do not hold these) 

After you apply 

• Automated acknowledgement: You will receive an automated acknowledgement and progress updates via SERVE. 

• Eligibility and interview: Applications are subject to an eligibility sift. Successful candidates will then be forwarded to the relevant Job Owner who will sift on suitability and interview as required before selecting a preferred applicant.  

• Preferred Applicant: Once a preferred applicant has been identified, the FTRS cell will complete the final checks/approvals prior to offering a period of commitment, subject to medical/security clearances being obtained. 

Could this be an option for you and your family? Start exploring by visiting www.findforcesjobs.mod.gov.uk or watching the short explanatory video on YouTube