People working in defense and armed forces help protect both people and property. There are many opportunities for both front-line personnel and support staff.

There is a diverse range of jobs available in each of the following:

The Army, Navy and Royal Air Force. There are jobs available at home and abroad in a variety of combat and support roles.

Police and prison services. Crime scene investigators, instructors, officers and community support work closely together to prevent and solve crimes, and in rehabilitating offenders.

Fire and rescue services. These include firefighters and coastguard response and rescue teams.

Private security. Protection officers, store detectives and security officers are constantly protecting both people and premises.

Technology is continually integrating with many jobs available in defense and armed forces, particularly in intelligence gathering to help anticipate dangerous situations. This means that more office-based jobs are available, but the majority of jobs still require challenging and physical outdoor work, which is often the reason why people choose to work in this sector. Shift work and long hours are common practice, especially during operations or exercises. Recruits in the armed forces may be required to relocate anywhere in the world.

There are over 140,000 police officers employed in regional forces such as the British Transport Police. The Army employs over 100,000 people. The Royal Navy employs over 34,000 and nearly 40,000 people work for the Royal Air Force. The UK private sector employs around 500,000 people. Protecting businesses against theft and terrorism are big growth areas, with opportunities everywhere.

Essential skills in the defense and armed forces industry are common sense, confidence and communication skills. Part of the recruitment process for the police and armed forces involves assessing physical fitness and leadership qualities. Employers look for people who think quickly, read situations and work well in teams.

Entry requirements depend on the occupation and the level of entry. For example, it is possible to join the armed forces in a junior rank with no educational qualifications. However, some roles require qualifications for entry. The minimum entry age for the police and security guards is 18.

Police officers begin their careers at a police training center and have to pay a two-year probationary period. Some areas require a professional qualification. Many security jobs are now licensed. The armed forces offer structured training, including Apprenticeships in technical trades. The opportunity to take professional and vocational qualifications may be available as part of the training.

The skills gained in the defense and armed forces sectors are highly sought after by commercial and public employers. Many transfer into private security jobs. Members of the armed forces are offered resettlement training to aid the transition into civilian life.