logistics
Soldier
Regular

Postal and Courier Operator

Postal and Courier Operators play an essential role in maintaining one of the Army's vital lines of communication as well as keeping the morale of troops high.

Royal Logistic Corps

Starting salary
£27,282
Age range
16 - 36

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Role details

Everything you need to know about the role, requirements and what you’ll gain.

Entry Requirements

Age

You can join between the ages of 16 – 36. At the time of your application you will need to be between 15 years & 7 months old and 35 years & 6 months old.

You can start your training as a Junior Soldier at the Army Foundation College from the age of 16 years and 6 months.

Fitness

Mid Thigh Pull 50kg
Medicine Ball Throw 2.7m
2km run 11 min 30 sec

More information about the fitness test

Education

GCSE Grade A–D/9-3, or Scottish National 4, in Maths and English Language

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Unsure about any requirements? Our recruitment team is here to help.

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About the Role

Royal Logistic Corps

Royal Logistic Corps (RLC) soldiers work with all units of the British Army, and are found all over the UK, and are deployed worldwide.

Getting mail delivered isn't just important in the Army - it's vital. As a Postal and Courier Operator, you'll play a key role in getting mail to soldiers, sailors and aircrew so they can stay in touch with friends and family. You'll train as a courier, mail guard, counter clerk and sorter, learning how to use the latest IT and satellite communication systems. You will work in the Secure courier network, safeguarding and distributing Protectively Marked Material in the UK and overseas.

Key responsibilities

Run your own Post Office using state-of-the-art IT systems to handle large amounts of cash and stock
Work with all types of mail - both official and private
You'll be based at South Cerney in Gloucestershire with opportunities to be deployed worldwide
Deploy all over the world on exercise and operations - wherever your expertise is needed
Gain your Level 2 Apprenticeship
Earn your category B Driving Licence

Training

Step 1
You'll start with your initial military training which teaches you how to be a soldier, covering everything from fieldcraft to how to handle a rifle.

If you join as a Junior Soldier (under 17 years and 6 months), you’ll do a basic military training (long) course at Harrogate.
If you join as a Regular Soldier (over 17 years and 6 months), you’ll do the regular adult basic training.

Step 2
Next, you’ll take a four-week course at the Defence College of Logistics, Policing and Administration in Worthy Down, Winchester. This teaches you to use our systems which help us track and trace mail all over the world. You also learn how to deal with Top Secret material. You will earn your category B driving license at the Defence School of Transport.

Step 3
Your Class 2 is awarded after 12 months on the job training and completion of all RLC PC Op Class 2 training objectives. You are then eligible to upgrade to a Class 1 Postal and Courier Operator on selection for promotion to Lance Corporal.

Pay and Benefits

Qualifications You'll Earn

Category B Driving Licence
Level 2 Express Delivery Apprenticeship
Defence Awarding Organisation (DOA) - Level 4 Award in Management of Postal and Courier Services
Defence Awarding Organisation (DOA) - Level 2 and 3 Award in Postal Accounting Management Transactions
IWFM - Level 4 in Facilities Management
Levels 2 and 3 Certificate in Logistics and Transport
Levels 5 and 6 Diploma in Logistics and Transport

Your application journey

From application to training, you can expect a timeline of around 3-6 months.

Timelines can vary based on individual circumstances.

1.1-2 days

Online application

Complete your application form online. You'll need details about your education, work history, and why you want to join the Army.

Real Army Life

Ask a Soldier

Get honest answers from real soldiers in the roles you’re interested in. Read previously asked questions or ask your own.

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What is day to day life like in the RLC?

The RLC is the largest Corps in the British Army and wherever in the world you find the Army, you’ll find us… Travel, Promotion, Sport, Adventure and Challenge – we’ve got it all.

Life in the RLC is varied and worldwide. You could be training in the UK one month and supporting operations overseas the next. Alongside your trade, you’ll get chances to travel, play sport and take on new challenges.

Heidi

Royal Logistic Corps

What is basic training like?

Phase 1 training will gradually push your limits, both physically and mentally, and you learn a lot about what you’re capable of.

Basic training is where you learn the fundamentals of Army life, from fitness and discipline to teamwork and core soldiering skills. It’s challenging, but you’re supported every step of the way as you build confidence and resilience.

Tori C

Royal Army Medical Services

What’s it like living on a base day to day?

It’s similar to a normal working day, with gyms, food halls and social spaces available on camp.

Living on a base gives you a good balance of structure and normal day‑to‑day life. Your days usually have a routine, like training, work and meals, but there’s also plenty of time to relax. You live close to the people you work with, so there’s a strong sense of community. In the evenings or downtime, you might go to the gym, watch TV, play sport or just catch up with mates. Everything you need is close by, which makes settling in much easier.

Holly J

Royal Adjutant's Corps