At a Glance
- Tasks: Support health and safety management systems to keep our communities safe.
- Company: Join the largest non-metropolitan Fire and Rescue Service in England.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, permanent contract, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in health and safety while working with passionate teams.
- Qualifications: Experience in health and safety audits and promoting a positive culture.
The predicted salary is between 38220 - 40777 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Health & Safety Advisor to join our Organisational Assurance department based at our Service Headquarters. You'll join us on a Permanent contract working 37 hours per week. In return you will receive a salary starting at £38,220 rising to £40,777 (gross) per annum. Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service is the largest non-metropolitan Fire and Rescue Service in England. We are an ambitious and progressive fire and rescue service proudly serving our communities to keep you safe. We provide prevention, protection and response services across the counties of Devon and Somerset.
As one of our Health and Safety Advisors, you will develop and support Health and Safety Management systems and processes, ensuring that the Service complies with its Health and Safety statutory duties. You will provide advice and guidance to managers and teams across the Service to ensure that the health, safety and welfare of all staff and those affected by our activities is maintained to the required standard. You will actively monitor and review the implementation of health, safety and welfare policies and processes in line with the Service Core Values.
Key responsibilities and duties of the Health & Safety Advisor role:
- Provision of professional advice: As a professional subject matter expert, provide proactive and reactive health, safety and welfare advice to managers and teams in order to attain and maintain statutory conformity.
- Develop policy and provide assurance of compliance: Research, develop, review and maintain health and safety related policies and guidance and undertake and report on safety inspections/audits of compliance against Health and Safety Standards.
- Work as part of a team promoting and embedding an engaged safety culture: Liaising with Health and Safety Points of Contact, provide a critical business partnering role, promoting, facilitating and embedding the safety culture within the Service.
- Work with managers and teams to ensure that risk assessments are suitable, sufficient and within review, to ensure that safety event investigations are actively progressed, and learning points effectively implemented, and that staff concerns relating to health and safety are acted upon promptly and effectively.
Essential qualifications:
- The successful candidate must, by the commencement of employment, have the right to work in the UK.
- Experience of conducting Health & Safety audits, inspections or investigations and producing clear reports and actions.
- Experience of promoting a positive Health & Safety culture within an organisation.
- Demonstrable experience of delivering training, briefings or presentations on Health & Safety topics.
- Experience of working in a multi-site or operational environment with varying risk profiles.
- Experience of developing, implementing and reviewing Health & Safety policies or procedures.
- Ability to analyse information, identify risks/issues and provide practical solutions or advice.
Closing date: 2359hrs Sunday 2nd August 2026
Our values:
- We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and all employees must share this commitment and adhere to the Services’ Safeguarding Policy.
- Fire and Rescue Authority roles are listed in Schedule 1 of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order and as such it is our policy to require all applicants to disclose any criminal convictions (both spent and unspent) including driving offences, cautions and reprimands.
- Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Authority is committed to the rehabilitation of offenders, as such any positive disclosures will incorporate a reasonable and proportionate response.
As a Service and as individuals:
- We are proud to help
- We are honest
- We are respectful
- We are working together
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service recognise and celebrate the vast diversity of the local communities that we serve, and we aspire for this to be reflected in our workforce. We encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds, experience and beliefs, who share our values to consider working for us.
Health & Safety Advisor in Exeter employer: Dsfire
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises the health, safety, and welfare of its employees. With a commitment to professional development and a focus on fostering an engaged safety culture, employees can expect meaningful growth opportunities while serving their communities in a vital role. Located in the picturesque counties of Devon and Somerset, this organisation not only values diversity but also encourages individuals from all backgrounds to contribute to its mission of keeping the public safe.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Health & Safety Advisor in Exeter
✨Get Involved with Local Health Initiatives
Join local community health events or volunteer for organisations like public health agencies. This not only builds your experience but also helps you network with industry professionals who might know of openings at places like Dsfire.
✨Tap into Professional Associations
Check out associations like the Institute of Healthcare Management. They often have job boards, networking events, and conferences that are perfect for connecting with potential employers in health sciences administration.
✨Stay Updated with Industry Trends
Follow health policy news and trends—being knowledgeable about the current landscape will not only help you in interviews but also make you stand out as a candidate. You can discuss recent developments and their implications when chatting with folks at Dsfire.
✨Apply Through Our Website for Better Visibility
When you find roles that excite you, especially at places like Dsfire, don’t forget to apply through our website. This can sometimes give you an edge by showing the employer you’re savvy and committed to finding the right fit.
We think you need these skills to ace Health & Safety Advisor in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in health sciences administration, it's super important to spotlight any relevant experience you have in healthcare settings. Whether you've worked in a hospital, a clinic, or any related environment, make sure to detail those roles in your CV – focusing on your responsibilities and achievements that align with the job at Dsfire.
Showcase Your Administrative Skills:Administrative skills are key in this field, so don’t hold back! Make sure your CV reflects your proficiency in things like scheduling, data management, and compliance with health regulations. Mention specific software you’ve used, such as patient management systems, as this will demonstrate your hands-on abilities and readiness for the role at Dsfire.
Craft a Meaningful Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the health sciences field and your eagerness to contribute to Dsfire. Share a bit about why you’re drawn to this sector, any impactful situations or challenges you’ve encountered, and how they’ve shaped your desire to work in health sciences administration. This personal touch can really set you apart!
Tailor Your Documents to the Job:Don't use a one-size-fits-all approach! Make sure your CV and cover letter are specifically tailored for this role. Highlight any certifications you have relevant to health administration, and ensure you clearly connect your previous roles to the skills needed for the full-time position at Dsfire. This way, you're showing them you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in being a part of their team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Dsfire
✨Showcase Your Administrative Skills
In health sciences administration, being organised is key. Make sure you can demonstrate your skills in managing schedules, paperwork, and data accurately. Be ready to discuss specific tools you've used, like electronic health record systems or scheduling software, and how they improved efficiency in your past experiences.
✨Know Your Regulations
Familiarity with healthcare regulations and compliance is crucial. Brush up on HIPAA, GDPR, or other relevant policies before your interview. We recommend preparing examples of how you've ensured compliance or handled sensitive information in past roles—this will show you're not just knowledgeable but also responsible.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Interviews for administrative roles often involve scenario-based questions to assess your problem-solving skills. Practice responses to common situations you might face, such as dealing with a challenging patient or managing a sudden schedule change. This will not only demonstrate your ability to think on your feet but also highlight your interpersonal skills.
✨Align Your Goals with the Organisation
As a full-time candidate, employers will want to know how your long-term career goals align with their mission. Take some time to research Dsfire’s values and be ready to tie your passion for health sciences administration into their objectives. Demonstrating enthusiasm and career alignment can be a game-changer in this competitive field!
