At a Glance
- Tasks: Inspect and maintain fire hydrants and dry risers across the county.
- Company: Join Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, a supportive and inclusive workplace.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, training opportunities, and a focus on employee wellbeing.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a difference in your community while working outdoors and gaining valuable skills.
- Qualifications: GCSE level education and a full driving licence required.
The predicted salary is between 28142 - 30518 £ per year.
Contract: Permanent
Working Hours: 37 hours per week
Salary: £28,142 – £30,518 (annual pay award pending)
Location: Billericay Fire Station
Closing Date: 2nd August 2026
The Role
Within our Water Section we are currently recruiting for a Fire Hydrant and Dry Riser Technician to join our team of five other technicians and our administration team. Based at Billericay Fire Station, the role involves the inspection and maintenance of statutory and private fire hydrants, predominately across the South of the County. Working on your own initiative in roadside and rural areas to identify fire hydrants, test and refurbish them using equipment from a workshop van. The role is predominately lone working and of a physically demanding nature, working outside in varying weather conditions. The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate manual handling capability, dexterity and the ability to access areas that are in overgrown locations using strimmers and hedge cutters and be able to pass the Authority’s in-house driving assessment. The role will also periodically involve the testing of dry-rising fire mains at various locations across the County as part of a team. Experience of engaging with members of the public and the ability to interpret technical drawings and maps would also be advantageous.
Training is available for the successful candidate, which would include fire hydrant repair techniques, NRSWA Highways working training (New Roads and Street Works Act) and tool and equipment use etc. Please note, the service vehicle cannot be used for commuting to and from home.
What You Will Be Working On
- Routine testing and maintenance of statutory and private fire hydrants
- Conducting minor fire hydrant repairs and associated defect reporting
- Acceptance testing of fire hydrants following third party repairs/replacements
- Accessing new housing development sites to locate and acceptance test new fire hydrant installations
- Wet testing of dry-rising fire mains as part of a team
What Are We Looking For?
- Level 2 standard of education (e.g. GCSE) or equivalent experience demonstrating basic numeracy and literacy.
- Full driving licence (also have category B+E).
- The successful candidate will be required to complete the following courses once in post:
- (NRSWA) Operative level qualification.
- First Aid Qualification
- Qualification in the use of Strimmers/Brush cutter & Hedge cutter
- Angle Grinder Qualification
If you are an internal candidate, you must have discussed your application with your line manager and confirmed with them there are no outstanding issues of conduct or performance. This will be verified prior to shortlisting.
How to apply
You will be required to submit a CV detailing a minimum of five years employment and/or education history, along with a supporting statement of no more than 750 words that demonstrates how you meet the essential criteria detailed in the Person Specification. You may submit this either as a word document, pdf, or an mp3 (voice note) or mp4 (video), however the word count of your supporting statement should not exceed 750 words no matter which format you choose to present your application. You may attach separate documents (such as qualifications) should you wish. Your CV and additional documents will be referred to in shortlisting to confirm eligibility (e.g., your current role and any existing qualifications). If you have applied for this role within the last 6 months, no need to re-apply.
Assessment and selection: The assessment and selection approach will be:
- Stage 1 (w/c 3rd August ‘26) Application & shortlisting (assessment of your supporting statement will be made against the essential & desirable criteria)
- Stage 2 (w/c 24th August ‘26) Role specific panel interview
Should you wish to have an informal discussion with regards to the role, please contact Terry Hone on terry.hone@essex-fire.gov.uk
Our Culture and Benefits
Here at Essex County Fire and Rescue Service we are committed to prioritising and promoting the wellbeing of our employees. You can find out more about our benefits at https://www.essex-fire.gov.uk/recruitment/benefits
Important Information for Firefighter Pension Scheme Pensioners
If you are currently in receipt of a pension from the Firefighter Pension Scheme, please note that taking up this role may affect your pension. Under pension abatement rules, if your earnings in this role, when combined with your pension, exceed your pre-retirement salary (adjusted for inflation), your pension may be reduced. For further guidance, please contact our Pensions team on 01376 576799 or email mailbox.pensions@essex-fire.gov.uk
Safeguarding
Essex Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Fire and Rescue Authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment. It is our policy to require all applicants for employment to disclose if you are currently being investigated by any regulatory body or have any decisions or sanctions pending or in progress in respect of your suitability to work for the Service. You agree to inform the Service within 24 hours if you are subsequently investigated by any agency or organisation in relation to concerns about your behaviour towards children, young people or vulnerable adults. The information you provide will be treated as strictly confidential and will be considered only in relation to the appointment for which you are applying. This role will be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
Disability Confident
We are an equal opportunity, Disability Confident, employer who welcomes applications from all backgrounds. We value diversity and are committed to creating a workplace where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Applications are considered solely on merit. Should you wish to discuss support, or access further information, from one of these groups, please contact Equality.Diversity@essex-fire.gov.uk You are also able to raise any queries or requests for support, including any adjustments you may require, at any stage of the process by email to recruitment@essex-fire.gov.uk
You can find out more about Essex County Fire & Rescue Service via www.essex-fire.gov.uk and about our vacancies and application processes via www.essex-fire.gov.uk/join-essex-fire.
Fire Hydrant & Dry-Riser Technician in Billericay employer: Essex County Fire and Rescue Service
Essex County Fire and Rescue Service is an exceptional employer that prioritises the wellbeing of its employees while fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture. Located at Billericay Fire Station, this role offers unique opportunities for professional growth through comprehensive training in fire hydrant repair techniques and safety qualifications, ensuring that technicians are well-equipped to excel in their roles. With a commitment to diversity and equal opportunity, the service values every team member's contribution, making it a rewarding place to work.
Contact Details:
Essex County Fire and Rescue Service Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Fire Hydrant & Dry-Riser Technician in Billericay
✨Get Involved with Local Fire Services
Join community groups or volunteer with local fire departments to get a foot in the door. It’s a great way to showcase your commitment to fire safety and emergency services while also making valuable connections in the field.
✨Attend Firefighting Job Fairs
Keep an eye out for firefighting job fairs and emergency services recruiting events in your area. These are goldmines for meeting staff from companies like Essex County Fire and Rescue Service and other emergency services, giving you a chance to chat and make a lasting impression.
✨Connect with Industry Professionals Online
Utilise platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn to find fire service groups and forums. Engaging in discussions and sharing insights can elevate your profile and help us to learn from those already in the field, potentially leading to job openings.
✨Keep Your Training Up-to-Date
Make sure your qualifications are current! Pursuing additional training, like first aid or specialised firefighting courses, shows your dedication and might just set you apart from the crowd when applying for roles at Essex County Fire and Rescue Service.
We think you need these skills to ace Fire Hydrant & Dry-Riser Technician in Billericay
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Commitment to Safety:In the fire and emergency services sector, it's crucial to showcase your understanding of safety protocols and emergency response challenges. Mention any relevant training or certifications you've completed, like First Aid or Fire Safety courses, and highlight your commitment to public safety in your cover letter.
Highlight Your Teamwork Skills:This field is all about collaboration! Make sure your CV emphasises your ability to work in a team under pressure. Detail examples of teamwork from previous roles, volunteer work or community involvement. Hiring managers at Essex County Fire and Rescue Service will love to see how you thrive in a group dynamic.
Detail Your Relevant Experience:When listing your experience, don't just mention your job titles – dig into your responsibilities and achievements that relate specifically to fire and emergency services. Include any volunteer work, internships, or projects that display your hands-on experience in this field, especially if you're transitioning from another area.
Craft a Strong Motivation Statement:As you're applying for a full-time role, it’s key to articulate why you want to join Essex County Fire and Rescue Service specifically. Dive into your motivation for working in fire services, and how this aligns with your career goals. We want to see your passion for contributing to the community and the impact you wish to make!
How to prepare for a job interview at Essex County Fire and Rescue Service
✨Know Your Emergency Protocols
Since you're eyeing a role in fire emergency services, brush up on the latest firefighting techniques and protocols. Understanding the fundamentals of fire behaviour, rescue operations, and safety measures will show that you’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the field.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Expect situational questions that test your ability to make quick decisions in high-pressure scenarios. Think of examples from your previous experiences or training where you had to think on your feet—this will really highlight your suitability for the role and show that you can handle real emergencies.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Community Engagement
Fire emergency services rely heavily on teamwork, so come prepared to discuss how you've worked with others in stressful situations. Additionally, showcase any community involvement or outreach you've done—it's a great way to demonstrate your commitment to public safety and your understanding of community dynamics.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Your Training
Make sure you’re ready to talk about any relevant training or certifications you have. Whether it’s emergency response training or a first aid qualification, make it clear how these experiences prepare you for a full-time position in fire emergency services with Essex County Fire and Rescue Service. It shows you’re proactive about your professional development!
