At a Glance
- Tasks: Support installation and maintenance of fire and security systems while learning on the job.
- Company: Join OCS, a leading facilities management company with a strong commitment to values.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, digital learning, retail perks, and flexible pay options.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace that values diversity and offers excellent career development.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in engineering with hands-on training and professional growth opportunities.
- Qualifications: A genuine interest in engineering and teamwork skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
About The Company
OCS UK & Ireland is a leading facilities management company with 50,000+ colleagues and a turnover in excess of £2bn. We deliver innovative, award-winning services within facilities management, hard services, cleaning, security and catering. Our mission is to make people and places the best they can be for our colleagues, customers and the communities we serve. Our commitment to doing business the right way is rooted in our TRUE values - Trust, Respect, Unity, and Empowerment.
Why Work for OCS?
- Award-Winning Employer: Ranked 36th on Glassdoor’s Best Companies to Work For 2025 — we value and motivate our people.
- Digital Learning: The OCS Academy offers digital courses and resources to help you build skills and grow your career.
- Retail Perks: With our Hapi app, you can gain access to exclusive discounts, rewards and wellbeing resources.
- Professional Growth: 600+ live learners across UK&I — Empowering colleagues with further development and qualifications!
- Flexible Pay: Access a portion of earned wages before payday with our Wagestream App! (Contract Specific)
About The Role
Working Pattern: Mon-Fri 0800 - 1700
Role Purpose: The Fire & Security Apprentice will work alongside experienced engineers to support the installation, inspection, testing, maintenance and repair of fire, security and life-safety systems across our customer estate. The role combines practical, on-the-job training with structured apprenticeship learning, allowing the apprentice to develop the skills and competence required to progress within the industry.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist with maintenance, inspection, testing and repair of fire and security systems.
- Support engineers with fault finding, installation and commissioning.
- Develop knowledge of fire alarms, CCTV, intruder alarms and access control.
- Assist with testing devices, circuits, batteries and power supplies.
- Learn to safely use test equipment and diagnostic tools.
- Assist with cabling, containment, termination and equipment connections.
- Accurately record completed work, test results and defects.
- Report safety, compliance and equipment issues.
- Maintain tools and equipment safely.
- Work professionally within customer premises.
- Attend apprenticeship training, toolbox talks and technical briefings.
Systems: The apprentice may gain experience with fire alarms, aspirating detection, voice alarm, emergency communication, CCTV, intruder alarms, access control, intercoms, networked systems and standby power supplies.
Health & Safety: Safety is central to the role. The apprentice must follow OCS safe systems of work, risk assessments, method statements, PPE and electrical safety procedures. They must work within their level of competence and report unsafe conditions, incidents or compromised life-safety systems immediately.
Development: OCS will support the apprentice through a recognised Fire, Emergency and Security Systems apprenticeship covering practical training, electrical principles, fault diagnosis, installation, inspection, testing, health and safety, customer service and compliance.
Person Specification:
- Essential: Genuine interest in engineering, electrical or security systems; willingness to learn; practical and methodical approach; good attention to detail; communication and teamwork skills; reliable and professional attitude; understanding of health and safety; willingness to travel.
- Desirable: Relevant GCSEs, practical or engineering experience, basic IT skills and a full UK driving licence or willingness to obtain one.
We are an equal opportunities employer and rely on a diverse workforce with a broad range of knowledge, skills, and backgrounds to deliver our goals. We offer an inclusive and welcoming environment and actively encourage applications from all individuals regardless of race, gender, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or age.
Fire & Security Apprentice in Crawley employer: Manchester Arndale
At Manchester Arndale, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer by fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture that values every team member. Our part-time Evening Cleaner role offers flexible hours, allowing for a great work-life balance while contributing to a safe and welcoming environment for our customers. We are dedicated to employee growth, providing opportunities for training and development within a vibrant retail setting in the heart of Manchester.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Fire & Security Apprentice in Crawley
✨Get Involved Locally
Join your local fire service volunteer groups or community safety events. This is a great way to meet professionals already in the fire-emergency-services field and get noticed! Plus, hands-on experience can really boost your application when you’re applying for an apprenticeship like the one at Manchester Arndale.
✨Connect with Firefighting Networks
Check out forums and social media groups dedicated to fire safety and emergency services. Engage in conversations and ask questions—this could lead you to insightful opportunities and even connections that can put in a good word about you to Manchester Arndale.
✨Show Your Commitment
Get your CPR and first aid certifications if you haven't already. This not only makes you more attractive to companies like Manchester Arndale, but it shows you're serious about a career in emergency services. It's a no-brainer!
✨Get to Know Apprenticeship Programmes
Keep an eye on apprenticeship initiatives in fire-emergency-services at organisations and training centres in your area. They often host open days or info sessions. Attend these to learn what they look for in candidates and how to stand out when you apply at Manchester Arndale!
We think you need these skills to ace Fire & Security Apprentice in Crawley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Safety:When you're writing your cover letter, make sure to highlight why you're passionate about fire and emergency services. Give examples of any relevant experiences you’ve had, like volunteering with local fire services or taking part in safety training. This is your chance to show us the deeper motivation behind your application to Manchester Arndale!
Certifications Matter:Any certificates you have related to first aid, CPR, or fire safety training should definitely find their way onto your CV. These are particularly valuable in the fire-emergency-services field and speak volumes about your preparedness for the apprenticeship. Don’t forget to mention the dates and any relevant courses you’ve completed!
Tailor Your CV for Emergency Response:Make sure your CV is tailored to reflect skills that are essential for emergency services, such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. We love to see practical skills, so if you have relevant high school projects or community efforts in these areas, make them stand out in your application to Manchester Arndale.
Express Your Eagerness to Learn:Since this is an apprenticeship, it’s key to convey your willingness to learn and grow. Use your cover letter to discuss how this opportunity at Manchester Arndale fits into your career aspirations in fire services. Show us your enthusiasm for tackling new challenges, and how you're ready to soak up knowledge like a sponge!
How to prepare for a job interview at Manchester Arndale
✨Brush Up on Your Emergency Protocols
For an apprenticeship in fire and emergency services, it's super important to have a solid understanding of the emergency protocols and procedures. Make sure you're familiar with basic firefighting principles, safety measures, and how to effectively communicate in emergencies – it’ll show you’re already thinking like a first responder!
✨Show Off Your Physical Fitness
Fire and emergency services can be physically demanding, so be ready to discuss your fitness level and any training you've done. Mention activities like team sports, gym workouts, or even volunteer work that showcases your ability to work under pressure and your commitment to staying fit.
✨Prepare for Real-Life Scenarios
During the interview, be ready for situational questions that mirror real-life emergency situations. Think about how you'd react to various scenarios, like handling a fire outbreak or assisting at an accident scene. We want to see your critical thinking and teamwork skills in action!
✨Demonstrate Your Eagerness to Learn
As an apprentice, we expect a willingness to learn and grow. Make sure to highlight your motivation to gain new skills within the fire and emergency services field. Share any relevant coursework, certifications, or experiences that sparked your interest in this vital work – it’ll help us see your potential!
