At a Glance
- Tasks: Respond to emergency calls and assist in community fire safety education.
- Company: Join Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service, dedicated to community safety and inclusion.
- Benefits: Earn a competitive salary with flexible hours and training opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while gaining valuable skills and experience.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, pass selection tests, and provide references.
- Other info: Live or work within four to six minutes of the station you apply for.
On-Call Firefighter Vacancies
We are currently recruiting for on call firefighters at Melton (LE13 0NP), Coalville (LE67 3PU), Shepshed (LE12 9QE), Billesdon (LE7 9AA), Oakham (LE15 6BQ), Uppingham (LE15 9RL), Market Harborough (LE16 9QG), Kibworth (LE8 0HQ), Lutterworth (LE17 4DZ), Loughborough (LE11 3GE) and Market Bosworth (CV13 0LT) Stations*
Please note that you will need to live or work within four minutes of the station you are applying for, with the exception of Market Bosworth, Loughborough and Billesdon which is six minutes.
*Please note that all stations advertised are subject to current vacancy availability.
Advert opens: 12 March 2026
Closing date: 23:59 hours on 10 June 2026
Job Objectives
Our On-Call Firefighters receive an annual retaining fee dependent on the number of hours they are available and this can vary from the minimum 24 hours of availability per week (20% cover) to the maximum of 120 hours of availability per week (100% cover). In addition to the annual retaining fee, our On-Call Firefighters receive payments for disturbance, attending and turning out for emergency calls, attending \’drill nights\’; and other duties. Responding to emergency calls is only part of what our On-Call Firefighters do; they face all kinds of challenges from floods to road traffic accidents, and they also inform our community about fire safety and prevention.
Our On-Call Firefighters carry an alerter and they respond to emergency calls during periods when they are available. If you want to combine an exciting and rewarding contribution to your community with opportunities for training and development affording you transferable skills, then this is the career for you.
Skills Required
As part of the application process, you will need to complete the Point of Entry Selection Tests which will include an on-line assessment. Details of which will be provided at the relevant stage of the process.
• You must be aged at least 18 years, on or before the training course commences.
• You must be prepared to supply details of two referees, attend a medical and undertake a criminal records disclosure and right to work check.
• You must be able to attend all training dates detailed on the training schedule.
On-Call Firefighters will be paid an annual retaining fee on a pro-rata scale relevant to the hours of availability provided. With a starting salary of £1,519.20 (Development), ranging from £1,519.20 – £4,557.60 (Development) and £1,944.05 – £5,832.16 (Competent) per annum, plus £13.87 – £17.75 per hour and £5.12 disturbance fee.
Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Furthermore, we want to create a work environment where everyone feels safe, can be themselves and can perform their roles to the best of their abilities. We have signed up with a number of nationally recognised organisations that promote equality, diversity and inclusion and we are working with them to help us achieve our objectives. These organisations include:
• Employers Network for Equality and Inclusion (ENEI)
• Department of Works and Pension\’s Disability Confident scheme
• British Sign Language Charter
• Asians in the Fire Service Association (AFSA)
Pension Considerations
Annual Allowance – Please note that it is your personal responsibility to check whether by applying/accepting this position it would result in any Annual Allowance implications. A breach in the Annual Allowance threshold could result in a Tax charge. Further information on Annual Allowance can be obtained from our Pensions team.
Lifetime Allowance – Please note that it is your personal responsibility to check whether by applying/accepting this position it would result in any Lifetime Allowance implications. A breach in the Lifetime Allowance threshold will result in a Tax charge. Further information on Lifetime Allowance can be obtained from our Pensions team.
If you feel you have the skills and experience to become our On-Call Firefighter then please click “apply” now – We\’d love to hear from you!
Please take note that Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service does not hold a UK Visa & Immigration (UKVI) Skilled Worker License sponsor and are unable to sponsor any individuals for Skilled Worker Sponsorship.
On-Call Firefighter employer: Leicestershire Fire and Rescue
Contact Detail:
Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land On-Call Firefighter
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure you know the exact location of the fire station you're applying to. Being within the required response time is crucial, so plan your route and consider traffic conditions during peak hours.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the Point of Entry Selection Tests. Practising online assessments can help you feel more confident and prepared when the time comes to take them.
✨Tip Number 3
Connect with current or former On-Call Firefighters through social media or local community groups. They can provide valuable insights into the role and share tips on how to succeed in the application process.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to discuss your availability during the interview. Highlighting your flexibility and commitment to being on-call will demonstrate your dedication to the role and the community.
We think you need these skills to ace On-Call Firefighter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of an On-Call Firefighter. Familiarise yourself with the job description and the skills needed.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant experience and skills in your CV that align with the role. Emphasise any previous emergency response or community service experience, as well as your ability to work under pressure.
Prepare for Assessments: Be ready to complete the Point of Entry Selection Tests, including the online assessment. Brush up on any necessary skills or knowledge that may be tested.
Provide Strong References: Select referees who can vouch for your character and suitability for the role. Ensure they are aware they may be contacted and can provide a positive reference.
How to prepare for a job interview at Leicestershire Fire and Rescue
✨Know Your Local Area
Familiarise yourself with the locations of the fire stations you're applying to. Being able to discuss your proximity and response times shows your commitment and understanding of the role.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
As an On-Call Firefighter, you'll be part of a team. Be prepared to share examples of how you've worked effectively in a team setting, whether in previous jobs or community activities.
✨Understand the Role's Responsibilities
Research the various duties of an On-Call Firefighter beyond responding to emergencies. Show that you understand the importance of community engagement and fire safety education.
✨Prepare for the Selection Tests
Since the application process includes Point of Entry Selection Tests, practice relevant assessments beforehand. This will help you feel more confident and perform better during the interview.