At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and support a team of Fire Control Operatives in emergency response.
- Company: Join Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, a leader in public safety.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, structured training, and a focus on employee wellbeing.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Must have experience as a Firefighter Control and strong leadership abilities.
The predicted salary is between 42505 - 42505 £ per year.
Contract: Permanent. Working Hours: Full Time, 42 hours per week subject to Grey Book terms and conditions. 2 x Day shift (0800-1800) 2 x Night shift (1800-0800) 4 x Rota days in a rolling 8-day contract. Salary: £42,505 per annum. Location: Main Control: Service Headquarters, Kelvedon Park, Rivenhall, Witham, Essex. CM8 3HB – Secondary Control (When required): Ongar Fire Station, 67 High Street, Ongar, Essex. CM5 9DT. Closing Date: Sunday 30th August 2026 - Midnight.
The Role
Our Fire Control Operatives, or Control Firefighters as they are officially called, are the link between the public and our operational firefighters. The role sees them answering 999 calls, contacting senior fire officers and other emergency services, and using our dynamic mobilisation system to send and move resources across Essex. As a Crew Manager you’ll provide leadership, supervision and development to support team members in performing their roles to the highest standard as well as taking on the full role map and responsibilities of a Crew Manager.
What You Will Be Working On
You will support the Watch Manager by assisting with coordinating the activities of the watch. You will manage the day-to-day use of allocated Service Control resources to ensure the effective delivery of call receipt, mobilising, communications, operational availability and associated information support functions. You will deputise for the Watch Manager where required and you will promote and role model a culture of support, excellence, and continuous improvement in line with our Service values.
What Are We Looking For?
You are motivated and enthusiastic about leading others to help our Service achieve operational and organisational objectives. You are a role model to others, and you can demonstrate all the capabilities of leading others and a diverse group of staff, exemplify professionalism and maintain high standards. You are committed to the development of yourself and others, and will be prepared to support the progression, and wellbeing of all personnel within your team, alongside the responsibilities outlined in the UK Fire Service Crew Manager Control Role Map.
What can we offer?
We invest heavily in our people through structured training programmes, ongoing operational development and access to a dedicated Control training suite. Whether you are new to emergency services or looking to progress your career, we will support your development. EECFRS Control watch strength is nine, with watches that should be working at minimum level of five on duty.
Eligibility
- Have held a substantive role as a competent Firefighter Control for a minimum of twelve months within a UK Fire and Rescue Service.
- Have successfully completed all relevant operational assessments and compulsory courses and are competent for your current role.
- Have no current live disciplinary or performance warnings or be subject to any informal management for reasons of conduct or performance.
Assessment and selection
The assessment activity will take place in line with the Service’s agreed recruitment and operational promotion approaches and will involve the following activities:
- Stage 1: Shortlisting of supporting statements will take place during the week commencing 31st August 2026.
- Stage 2: This will take place across the majority of a day at our Headquarters (Kelvedon Park, Rivenhall, Witham, Essex. CM8 3HB) week commencing 14th September 2026 and will comprise of:
- A managerial exercise based on the NFCC Leadership Framework.
- A practical exercise based on management of a control environment.
- A role specific interview including questions on Safeguarding and Inclusion.
- A Role Specific Incident Command Verification- CCV (If not already completed within ECFRS within 24 months) will be required to be completed within 6 months of appointment.
Assessments will be made against positive indicators taken from the Code of Ethics and the NFCC Leadership Framework.
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.
Control Crew Manager in Essex employer: Networking Women in the Fire Service
Networking Women in the Fire Service is an exceptional employer dedicated to enhancing community safety and wellbeing across the UK. With a strong focus on employee growth, we offer flexible home-based work arrangements and opportunities for impactful collaboration within a supportive and inclusive culture. Join us to make a meaningful difference while enjoying competitive benefits and a commitment to your professional development.
Contact Details:
Networking Women in the Fire Service Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Control Crew Manager in Essex
✨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 Networking Women in the Fire 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 Networking Women in the Fire Service.
We think you need these skills to ace Control Crew Manager in Essex
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 Networking Women in the Fire 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 Networking Women in the Fire 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 Networking Women in the Fire 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 Networking Women in the Fire Service. It shows you’re proactive about your professional development!
