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- Tasks: Respond to emergencies and help your community as an on-call firefighter.
- Company: Join a diverse team dedicated to serving the local community.
- Benefits: Earn extra income, gain valuable skills, and enjoy flexible hours.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while developing skills that benefit your future.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, live or work nearby, and maintain good physical fitness.
- Other info: Open to all backgrounds; we value diversity and inclusion.
Please note, the following stations are not currently recruiting:
- Bridport
- Christchurch
- Lyme Regis
- Warminster
- Weymouth
- Poole
Additionally, Springbourne, Westbourne, Redhill Park and Westlea are crewed by wholetime firefighters only so are not open to applications for On-call Firefighters.
On-call firefighters live or work close to their local fire station and can respond quickly to emergencies when paged. On-call firefighters are paid for the amount of agreed hours they provide and respond to the fire station when required. Unlike their wholetime colleagues, on-call firefighters are not based on fire stations full-time.
On-call firefighters are paid professionals who live and/or work within the local community. They can be called to a wide range of incidents, such as commercial and domestic fires, road traffic collisions, rescues from height or water, animal rescue or flooding. On-call firefighters come from every walk of life, for example they could be homemakers, retail workers, builders, farmers, office workers and directors of companies, together with those who are self-employed. Around two thirds of the firefighters in Dorset and Wiltshire work on an on-call basis, making them hugely important to both the Service and the communities that they serve.
We are an equal opportunities employer, and we are committed to putting equality, diversity and inclusion at the heart of everything we do. We welcome applications from all members of our community and encourage women, black, Asian and minority ethnic communities and the LGBTQ community to join us.
The role of a firefighter is very rewarding and it requires determination, courage, motivation, and a genuine desire to serve the community. Successful candidates will become part of a well-trained workforce, earning additional income, and gaining skills such as first aid, driving qualifications and health & safety knowledge that are transferrable into any primary employment.
Please click the link to read through the requirements to be an on-call firefighter on our website 'Have you got what it takes' if you have, we would welcome your application as long as you:
- Are at least 18 years old when you join us (you can apply once you are 17½);
- Live or work near the fire station so you can respond quickly;
- Have a good standard of physical fitness.
Any offer of employment will be subject to full pre-employment checks which include identity checks, right to work in the UK, medical, negative drug test, receipt of satisfactory references, and an explanation of any gaps in employment in the last 3 years.
You can apply for any of our on-call stations across our Service area. When submitting an application, you will be asked to choose one station to apply for (you cannot apply for more than one at this stage).
For more information, please email.
On-Call Firefighter (New) employer: Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Authority
Contact Detail:
Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Authority Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land On-Call Firefighter (New)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know your local fire station! Pop in and chat with the crew. They can give you insider info on what it’s like to be an on-call firefighter and might even help you stand out when you apply.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay fit and ready! Being physically fit is key for this role, so hit the gym or get outdoors. Show that you’re committed to maintaining the fitness levels needed to respond quickly when called.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current on-call firefighters. They can share their experiences and tips on how to ace the application process. Plus, it’s a great way to show your enthusiasm for the role!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Make sure to highlight your community ties and any relevant skills that make you a great fit for the team.
We think you need these skills to ace On-Call Firefighter (New)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Local Station: Before you dive into your application, make sure you know which on-call station you're applying to. It’s important to live or work nearby so you can respond quickly when needed. Check out our website for the full list of stations!
Show Your Commitment: In your application, highlight your determination and motivation to serve the community. We want to see that you’re genuinely interested in becoming an on-call firefighter and ready to take on the challenges that come with it.
Be Honest About Your Fitness: We need firefighters who are physically fit and ready for action. Be upfront about your fitness level in your application, and if you have any relevant experience or training, don’t forget to mention it!
Apply Through Our Website: When you’re ready to submit your application, make sure to do it through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and get the process rolling. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Authority
✨Know Your Local Fire Station
Familiarise yourself with the specific fire station you're applying to. Understand their community, recent incidents they've responded to, and any unique challenges they face. This shows your commitment and helps you connect with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Your Community Spirit
As an on-call firefighter, being part of the community is key. Share examples of how you've engaged with your local area or helped others. This could be through volunteering, local events, or even just being a good neighbour. It highlights your dedication to serving the community.
✨Showcase Your Physical Fitness
Physical fitness is crucial for this role. Be prepared to discuss your fitness routine and any relevant training you've undertaken. If you've completed any first aid or safety courses, mention those too. It demonstrates your readiness for the demands of firefighting.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to stay calm under pressure. Think about past experiences where you've had to make quick decisions or work as part of a team. Practising these responses can help you feel more confident during the interview.
