Armed forces logistics/support/administrative officer : Job description

A logistics/support/administrative officer in the armed forces is responsible for the management and efficiency of the logistics, support and administrative functions.

In the Army  they are known as staff and personnel support (SPS) officers, part of the Adjutant General's Corps (AGC) , or specialist officers in the Royal Logistics Corps (RLC) , trained in supply, distribution or commodities (e.g. ammunition or petroleum).

In the Royal Navy , they are called supply officers. In the Royal Air Force (RAF) , they are administrative officers. In each setting, their purpose is the same: to enable each service to carry out their allotted role in peace and war.

Typical work activities

Typical activities include supervising and planning the work of individuals and teams whose role is the delivery of a wide range of specific services and functions including:

• human resources/personnel, training and development, pay and benefits;
• IT and information management;
• administration and secretarial;
• infrastructure and project management;
• accountancy;
• security;
• stores and supplies.

In the context of the infrastructure and services of a base, typical work activities include:

• commanding a platoon of highly trained specialist service personnel;
• assessing priorities, plans, and maintenance routines as well as liaising with external agencies;
• ensuring that army personnel is motivated and trained to high standards;
• investigating the causes of administrative problems;
• supervising administrative routines including records, budgets and accounts;
• taking responsibility for the morale, welfare and training of subordinates;
• managing resources to achieve complex tasks within budget.

Additionally, in field operations, activities include:

• registering prisoners and/or refugees;
• registering and notifying of death and injury;
• undertaking security and patrol duties.