How many hours can you work in the Reserves?

[Kevindagul]

Hey,

Well I applied for the Regular Force recently and just got an email back today stating that my application wouldn't be considered for processing at this time. They gave me a couple options, one being trying to get into the Reserves.

ONE of the main reasons I wanted to get into the Regs was because, currently my life is in a downward spiral financially. I was just wondering, if accepted into the Reserves would I be able to support my self? (Rent, bills..) Or would I need to balance it out with another job?

Thanks for any advice!

 

[dimsum]

Don't expect the Reserves to be full-time employment.  The whole point of the Reserves is that people with civilian full-time employment can also serve part-time.

 

[brihard]

The basic commitment for a reservist - all you can really count on - is one evening a week at a half day's pay, and one weekend a month at two and a half days' pay. So four and a half days of pay a month at about $90/day for a rookie private. A bit over $400 a month minus deductions.

Some reservists manage to end up turning the job into enough money with additional tasks, training etc. to get by. You can NEVER count on that, however. You would most definitely need another job. However to be a reservist it would need to be a job that would allow you to go away for a couple months your first summer to get trade qualified and so to be of any use to us.

Finally, speaking as a reserve recruiter and a guy who deals with courses- at this point in the year you are very likely to be too late to get in and start training any sooner than September 2013.

 

[MeatheadMick]

Being in the Reserves (especially starting out,) you will not be able to financially support yourself. Unless you are employed full time (called class "B" service, must be fully trades qualified, and can be quite difficult to procure these days) you will be employed on a part time basis, most likely one night a week, and every other weekend. Just remember if you're financially burdened, it can also impact your acceptance into the CF, Reserves or Reg Force.

Hope this answers some of your questions.

 

[Kevindagul]

Thanks for the information!

I might just re-apply in person and tune up my application as I kind of ran threw it the first time.

 

[Jarnhamar]

Thanks for the information!

I kind of ran threw it the first time.

Smart.