At a Glance
- Tasks: Monitor fire detection systems and coordinate emergency responses in a dynamic railway control environment.
- Company: Join a leading railway organisation committed to safety and efficiency.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, shift flexibility, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Exciting career path with training starting in September 2026.
- Why this job: Be part of a critical team ensuring safety on the railway while developing valuable skills.
- Qualifications: A-Level education, English proficiency, and intermediate French skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The Fire Detection and Information Controller is a dual‑role, safety‑critical position within the Railway Control Centre (RCC). The role plays a vital part in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the railway by monitoring fire detection systems, coordinating emergency and maintenance responses, and managing real‑time operational information. Working as part of a multi‑disciplinary control room team, you will follow established procedures, maintain accurate records, and communicate clearly with internal teams and external partners in both the UK and France.
Fire Detection Controller (FDC)
- Monitor and manage the Fire Detection System in real time across the Running Tunnels and electrical rooms within the Service Tunnel, ensuring all operations meet Minimum Operational Requirements (MORs).
- Identify and analyse active alarms and promptly notify the RCC Supervisor to initiate appropriate emergency or maintenance actions.
- Respond to fire alarms by implementing defined emergency procedures, including alerting emergency and rescue services in both the UK and France (FLOR, SLOR, Rescue Services).
- Report and elevate incidents or accidents within the tunnel to fire crews and the RCC Supervisor to support a timely and coordinated response.
- Coordinate safe access, movement and positioning of emergency and maintenance vehicles within the Service Tunnel, ensuring the safety of all personnel, including solo workers.
- Operate and manage the Engineering Management System (EMS) lighting interface across all three tunnels.
- Maintain continuous communication with UK and French FLOR teams for all safety‑related events.
- Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date records within the computerized documentation system, including logbooks, message books and fault logs.
- Comply fully with all safety procedures, policies and documentation relevant to the FDC role.
Information Controller (INFOC)
- Monitor railway operations using the RCC mimic display panel and space‑time graphics, maintaining regular communication with fellow controllers and supervisors.
- Identify and analyse the causes of service disruptions, failures and delays.
- Communicate operational updates to relevant internal departments and external infrastructure and railway partners during degraded operations (including TCCs, ODM, Eurostar, AFC and Fréthun).
- Log and track delay reasons and changes to departure times within the Information System to ensure accurate reporting.
- Assign and update rake numbers and platform changes for rail missions as required.
- Communicate operational updates via SMS to relevant stakeholders throughout the various stages of rail service events.
- Comply fully with all safety procedures, policies and documentation relevant to the Information Controller role.
- Ensure documentation systems remain current to support operational continuity.
Qualifications and Experience
- Educated to A‑Level standard or equivalent.
- Proficiency in English, with the ability to communicate in French to an intermediate level (B2 or above).
- Strong attention to detail and the ability to work accurately within a safety‑critical environment.
- Ability to remain calm and focused when working under pressure.
- Willingness and ability to work a 24‑hour, 7‑day shift roster.
- A valid driving licence to facilitate commuting to the workplace in either the UK or France.
Desirable
- Previous experience working in a railway environment and/or control centre environment.
Recruitment Process
- An initial French language competency assessment (informal conversation via Microsoft Teams)
- First‑stage interview
- Psychometric (Safety Competency) testing
- A visit to one of the Railway Control Centres (UK or France)
- Medical assessment in line with the requirements of the role
The proposed start date for training is September 2026. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. From 1 January 2021, non‑British and non‑Irish nationals who do not already hold a UK immigration status will be required to obtain a visa in order to be able to work in the UK. Please ensure that you are permitted to apply.
Submit your application online by Friday 3rd July 2026. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications. Therefore, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.
Fire Detection and Information Controller - Phase 2 - 2026 (11122) in Folkestone employer: Getlink
As a Fire Detection and Information Controller at our Railway Control Centre, you will join a dynamic and safety-focused team dedicated to ensuring the smooth operation of railway services across the UK and France. We pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative work culture that values continuous learning and professional development, offering employees the chance to grow their skills in a critical role while contributing to public safety. With comprehensive training programs and a commitment to employee well-being, we provide a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a vital sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Fire Detection and Information Controller - Phase 2 - 2026 (11122) in Folkestone
✨Tip Number 1
Get familiar with the role! Dive into the specifics of being a Fire Detection and Information Controller. Understand the fire detection systems and emergency procedures inside out, so you can chat confidently about them during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since you'll be coordinating with teams in both the UK and France, brush up on your English and French. Maybe even do some mock conversations to get comfortable with the lingo used in the railway industry.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees or join relevant groups online. This can give you insider info about the company culture and what they really value in candidates, plus it might just land you a referral!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, keep an eye on the deadlines and don’t wait until the last minute – we all know how that goes!
We think you need these skills to ace Fire Detection and Information Controller - Phase 2 - 2026 (11122) in Folkestone
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for the Fire Detection and Information Controller role. We want to see how your background aligns with the safety-critical nature of the position!
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since clear communication is key in this role, don’t forget to showcase your ability to communicate effectively in both English and French. Mention any experiences where you’ve had to relay important information under pressure.
Highlight Attention to Detail:This job requires a strong attention to detail, so be sure to provide examples from your past work where you’ve successfully managed records or monitored systems accurately. We love seeing candidates who can keep things organised!
Apply Early!:Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application! We encourage you to apply through our website as soon as possible, as we might close the vacancy early if we get enough applications. Get your foot in the door!
How to prepare for a job interview at Getlink
✨Know Your Fire Detection Systems
Make sure you understand the fire detection systems you'll be monitoring. Brush up on how they work, what the Minimum Operational Requirements (MORs) are, and be ready to discuss how you'd respond to various alarm scenarios.
✨Brush Up on Communication Skills
Since this role involves clear communication with teams in both the UK and France, practice your English and French. Be prepared to demonstrate your ability to convey critical information effectively, especially under pressure.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Emergency Procedures
Review the emergency procedures you'll need to follow. Think about how you would coordinate responses during a fire alarm and ensure you can articulate these processes clearly during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Attention to Detail
This role is safety-critical, so highlight your attention to detail. Prepare examples from your past experiences where your accuracy made a difference, whether in record-keeping or managing operational information.
