At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to protect and support your community as a Firefighter.
- Company: Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, dedicated to public safety and community engagement.
- Benefits: Earn up to £38,881, with career development and international opportunities.
- Other info: Apply by 26 September 2025 for training starting March 2026.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while building a rewarding career.
- Qualifications: No experience needed, just a passion for serving your community.
The predicted salary is between 32900 - 38881 £ per year.
Overview
Wholetime Firefighter Vacancies. We are recruiting Firefighters to join our team, recognised for its outstanding work in the heart of communities. Salary: Up to £38,881 per annum (on successful completion of your Firefighter Apprenticeship). An additional 10% will be paid on completion of recruit training if appointed into a duty system with a retained cover element.
Our Firefighters come from diverse backgrounds but share a commitment to serve, protect and support our communities. We are committed to ensuring our teams are fully representative of the communities they serve.
Our Firefighters step forward when others move away, often helping the most vulnerable in Merseyside in challenging situations. No previous experience is required. If you love your community, do the right thing when nobody is looking, respect others and include everyone, we want to hear from you.
In return, we offer excellent career development support, experiences of working nationally and internationally, and opportunities to specialise in the wider work of MFRS within our communities. We have a long and proud history; be part of our future.
Important Information
This recruitment is to fill places on our 2026 recruit training courses. The first course begins 9 March 2026, with a second course in Autumn 2026.
Key Selection Process Stages and Dates
- Application stage: Closing date is Midnight, 26 September 2025. There are two parts to the online application process. First, complete an application form which can be accessed from the Firefighter advert on the vacancies section of our careers page at www.merseyfire.gov.uk. After submitting part one, you will receive a link via email to complete the second part of the application form, which asks you to provide examples demonstrating Leadership Behaviours relevant to the Firefighter role. Both parts must be completed by the closing date of 26 September.
- Physical assessments: Will take place commencing weeks of 13th and 20th October 2025.
- Assessment Day: Various dates throughout November 2025.
Please note we have limited spaces at each stage. If there are more successful candidates than places at the next stage, your application may be held until the following round or availability at the next appropriate assessment stage.
Eligibility
Applicants must be 18 years of age by the start of the recruit training course. Applicants who have a live/unspent disciplinary sanction or who are currently under any capability (performance) improvement note/plan will not be eligible to apply.
Artificial intelligence
AI can be helpful in preparing your application, but all examples and claims must be honest and based on your own experience. If plagiarism is detected, your application may be withdrawn. The Service is piloting an AI tool to aid hiring managers in shortlisting; final decisions remain with hiring managers.
We do not accept CV submissions for this vacancy. For further information about the role and guidance on completing the online application and later stages of the selection process, please refer to the Firefighter Recruitment Candidate Pack on the Firefighter advert in the vacancies section of our careers page at www.merseyfire.gov.uk.
About Us
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service (MFRS) is at the forefront of public safety and emergency response, serving the vibrant communities of Merseyside with dedication and professionalism. Our mission is to protect, prevent, and respond—ensuring the safety and well-being of the public in times of crisis and through proactive community engagement. Our teams work to provide fire and rescue services, enforce fire safety regulations, and deliver critical prevention and education programs across a diverse region including urban, industrial, and rural areas.
Firefighter employer: Merseyfire
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service (MFRS) is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture that values diversity and community engagement. As a firefighter, you will benefit from comprehensive career development opportunities, the chance to specialise in various areas of emergency response, and the pride of serving the vibrant communities of Merseyside. Join us to make a meaningful impact while enjoying competitive salaries and the camaraderie of a team committed to protecting and supporting those in need.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Firefighter
✨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 Merseyfire.
✨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 Merseyfire.
✨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 Merseyfire, 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 Merseyfire!
We think you need these skills to ace Firefighter
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 Merseyfire!
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 Merseyfire.
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 Merseyfire 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 Merseyfire
✨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!
