At a Glance
- Tasks: Support communities by providing essential fire safety during staff shortages.
- Company: Avon Fire & Rescue Service, dedicated to community safety.
- Benefits: Gain valuable skills, paid training, and flexible work opportunities.
- Other info: Casual contract with no guaranteed hours; training provided for personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing personally and professionally.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, fit, and possess a driving licence; teamwork skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 15 £ per hour.
We have a number of vacancies for Reserve Firefighters to be trained in basic defensive firefighting. These staff will only be used to provide resilience support during any periods of unforeseen staff shortages which will include periods of strike action. You will provide an invaluable role and will help to keep our communities safe. The job is extremely rewarding and you will gain a wide range of skills and training which we hope will assist in your personal development.
It is important to note that in most cases there is not an ongoing need to use Reserve Firefighters and therefore there will be significant ongoing periods of time when you will not be called upon to work. You will be required to attend an initial two-day basic training programme (dates to be confirmed) and will also be expected to attend 2 days refresher training every year (one every 6 months) plus a training exercise each year. Training is paid at the standard hourly rate and the dates will be published in advance for you to book a place to suit your availability.
What we will need from you:
- Applicants must live within the Avon Fire & Rescue Service area or within a 25 mile radius of our boundary.
- You must possess a driving licence and have access to your own transport.
- An LGV driving licence would be an advantage but is not essential as additional training in blue light driving will be provided to those who are selected as Drivers.
- If you possess managerial or leadership experience this would also be an advantage and we will provide additional training to some candidates to enable them to assume the role of operational incident managers.
- You must have a high level of physical strength and fitness, work well as part of a team, be able to follow instructions and remain calm under pressure.
- The training is intensive and requires the ability to acquire and retain technical information, follow clear instructions and carry out practical tests including putting up ladders, rolling out hose and carrying equipment.
- The ideal candidate will have a balance of academic and practical skills and be able to communicate effectively.
- There is no upper age limit but you must be aged 18 before the start of your firefighter training.
Upon successful completion of the basic training course you will be issued a casual contract of employment. You will normally be given a minimum of seven days’ notice of any work or training commitments. We do not guarantee to provide work as Reserve Firefighters will only be called upon in exceptional situations if we experience any unexpected shortfalls in staffing.
Additional Information:
The selection process will include a range of practical physical tests to assess your ability to utilise and work with fire service equipment in a safe and controlled manner. You will also undergo a fitness and strength test and an informal interview. Successful applicants will be required to complete our medical process. Job offers will be made to applicants who pass all stages of the selection process. Please note that working as a Reserve Firefighter does not give you priority access into any other vacancies within Avon Fire & Rescue Service but will provide you with a basic insight into the operational role. You will be required to undertake a DBS check and other pre-employment checks.
How to apply:
Download the application form below and tell us how your skills and experience meet the essential criteria. Applications should be e‑mailed to recruitment@avonfire.gov.uk. CVs will be accepted if they include full details of your relevant skills and experience for these roles.
With effect from July 2023 legislation was amended to enable all Fire & Rescue Services to undertake standard DBS checks for all employees. All job roles require a standard DBS check, with certain defined roles requiring an enhanced check. These will be renewed throughout employment.
Additional reading:
It is important for you to familiarise yourself with our work at Avon FRS and the framework we follow.
Reserve Firefighters (casual zero hour contract) in Bristol employer: Avonfire
Avon Fire & Rescue Service is an exceptional employer that prioritises community safety while offering meaningful and rewarding roles for Reserve Firefighters. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will receive comprehensive training and support, enhancing your skills in a collaborative and dynamic work environment. The flexibility of a casual zero-hour contract allows you to balance your commitments while contributing to the safety of your local community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Reserve Firefighters (casual zero hour contract) in Bristol
✨Get in the Loop with Local Events
Fire and emergency services tend to have a strong community presence, so check out local safety fairs, open days at fire stations, or public safety workshops. It's a great way to meet people working in the field and to gain insights into temporary positions coming up soon!
✨Join Professional Networks
Sign up for groups like the Fire Fighters Association or local emergency service networks. These can be invaluable for staying updated on temporary job openings, as many roles are often filled through word-of-mouth before they even hit job boards.
✨Show Your Commitment to Community Safety
Pull together a portfolio showcasing any volunteer work or courses you've done related to fire safety, first aid, or emergency response. This can really help you stand out during interviews as it shows your dedication goes beyond just wanting a job.
✨Apply Directly with Us at Avonfire
When you see temporary roles at Avonfire, don’t hesitate! Apply through our website as soon as you can. The quicker we see your application, the better chance you have to impress us with your passion for fire safety and emergency services.
We think you need these skills to ace Reserve Firefighters (casual zero hour contract) in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Relevant Qualifications:Fire and emergency services are all about safety and quick thinking, so make sure your application highlights any relevant certifications! Include your first aid, CPR, or fire safety training on your CV, and don’t forget any past experiences in emergency situations. This will demonstrate your preparedness for the role at Avonfire.
Highlight Relevant Experience:When applying for a temporary role in fire-emergency services, emphasise any hands-on experience you’ve had, whether it's through volunteering with local fire departments or working on emergency response teams. Use specific examples that showcase your ability to work under pressure and react effectively in emergencies.
Be Ready to Adapt:Temporary positions often require flexibility. In your cover letter, mention how you can quickly adapt to new situations and environments. Maybe you've had experience stepping into high-demand roles before or filled in for others in emergency services—let Avonfire know you can handle it!
Keep It Concise but Impactful:When it comes to temporary applications, being succinct is key. Keep your CV and cover letter focused on the most relevant information that aligns with the role at Avonfire. A well-structured layout, without unnecessary fluff, can make all the difference in grabbing attention!
How to prepare for a job interview at Avonfire
✨Know Your Emergency Protocols
In fire and emergency services, it’s crucial to be familiar with relevant protocols and response strategies. Brush up on the different types of emergencies, standard operating procedures, and community resources you might need to utilise. This knowledge not only shows your preparedness but also your commitment to public safety.
✨Showcase Your Physical Fitness
For a temporary role in fire and emergency services, demonstrating your physical capabilities can really set you apart. Be ready to discuss your fitness routine and any relevant training you've had. If you have a portfolio of your certifications, like first aid or CPR, keep it handy—these can be game-changers!
✨Highlight Teamwork and Communication Skills
In this field, it’s all about working with a team and communicating effectively under pressure. Be prepared to talk about past experiences where you collaborated with others, especially in high-stress situations. Share examples that showcase your ability to lead or follow depending on the situation.
✨Be Ready for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect the interview to include scenario-based questions tailored to emergency situations. They might ask how you would respond in a specific crisis or what steps you’d take in a hazardous environment. Practise your responses to these scenarios to show that you're ready to think on your feet, even in a temporary capacity.
