Firefighter (Wholetime)
Being part of the Fire Service is not only about fighting fires and rescuing people from difficult situations, it is also about working closely with local communities. You will, for example, be expected to offer advice about fire prevention and fire safety at home and in the workplace. You may also be asked to liaise with schools - offering career advice, and to publicise the work of the Service.
As a Firefighter working in Herefordshire and Worcestershire, with its blend of urban and rural communities, it is not just your firefighting skills that will be called on. Working with people of all ages and from all walks of life demands common sense, compassion, sensitivity, creativity, discretion and diplomacy. We look for applicants from a wide range of backgrounds who are aged 18 or over to help us to provide the high quality service expected by the people of Herefordshire and Worcestershire.
A career in the Fire Service can offer variety, excitement, and a unique sense of job satisfaction.
A good deal of this job satisfaction comes from the knowledge that you are making a positive difference to the community.
No two days are ever the same for an operational Firefighter. You may be involved in supporting and reassuring people involved in a serious road traffic accident, or comforting a parent whose child is trapped by fire. These situations take a good deal of mental toughness in order to remain calm when others around you may not be able to control their emotions.You may face dangerous situations, so courage is essential. We also need people who can think on their feet, quickly weigh up a situation and act accordingly.
Shifts
This will include working weekends, nights, and public holidays. A normal working week will be 42 hours, based on a shift rota of two 9 hour days, followed by two 15 hour nights, followed by four days off duty.
Leave
There is a generous leave entitlement of 30 days plus public holidays.
Salary
Salary scales are in accordance with national pay scales.
The starting salary for a trainee Firefighter is currently £20,896 per annum.
Training
All new trainee Firefighters undergo a training programme, of approx 7 weeks, structured to develop the skills, abilities and qualities needed to be a Firefighter.
Probationary Period
Employment is subject to a probationary period whilst you are in the training and development phase of your role up to a maximum period of 3 years in accordance with your terms and conditions of employment. During your probationary period you will be required to demonstrate a satisfactory level of performance.
Equal Opportunities
We aim to provide equality of opportunity in employment and service delivery and welcome applications from men and women of all backgrounds and ethnic groups, including those with disabilities.
For further information on our latest Firefighter opportunities, click here.
General information about firefighting can also be found at:
http://www.communities.gov.uk/fire/
