At a Glance
- Tasks: Protect and support communities as a vital part of a disciplined firefighting team.
- Company: Join Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, known for its outstanding workplace culture and commitment to inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, gym access, and structured development opportunities.
- Other info: Encouraging applications from diverse backgrounds to reflect community diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while building a rewarding public service career.
- Qualifications: Full UK driving licence and strong interpersonal skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30384 - 38881 £ per year.
Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) is recruiting Operational Wholetime Firefighters, through either an apprenticeship or development route depending on previous experience. The development programme will start in October 2026 or January 2027 and candidates must be available for all weeks of the course. The exact date will be confirmed during the recruitment process. This is a unique opportunity to begin a rewarding public service career within an organisation recognised for its outstanding workplace culture, commitment to inclusion, and high professional standards.
Please note: This vacancy may close early if a high volume of applications is received. Interested candidates are strongly encouraged to apply as soon as possible. The latest possible closing date is 23:59 hours on Sunday 7 June 2026. Applications that are incomplete at the point of closure cannot be accepted.
About the Role
As an Apprentice/Developing Wholetime Firefighter, you will play a vital role in protecting and supporting the communities of Lancashire. The role is varied, demanding and highly rewarding. You will be expected to:
- Respond calmly, professionally and effectively to people in distress and emergency situations.
- Work as part of a disciplined, multi‑agency team in high pressure environments.
- Communicate clearly and confidently when delivering community safety advice.
- Value diversity and be able to support vulnerable people within the community.
- Uphold the Service’s core values by behaving in an inclusive, respectful and non‑judgemental way.
- Actively listen to others and value different perspectives and contributions.
What We’re Looking For
We are seeking resilient, motivated individuals who demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, professionalism and a genuine commitment to public service.
Essential Requirement
You must hold a full Category B car driving licence, valid for use in the UK with no restrictions. You must be prepared to work at any Fire Station in Lancashire and any shift system. Candidates are encouraged to develop an understanding of the role and working arrangements prior to applying for a position.
Recruitment and Selection Process
The recruitment process is rigorous and competitive. It is designed to ensure we appoint individuals who can perform consistently at the highest level. As part of the process, you will be required to complete a series of job‑related assessments, including:
- Online and written assessments (verbal ability, numerical ability and situational judgement)
- Practical and physical fitness assessments
- Assessments to test your ability to follow instructions and complete practical tasks
You must be available to attend all recruitment stages, which will take place between June and September 2026, specific dates will be confirmed in due course, as well as the full Recruit’s Course.
Apprenticeship and Training
Successful candidates will be appointed as either an Apprentice Firefighter or Developing Firefighter, those who have no previous experience will undertake the Level 3 Operational Firefighter Apprenticeship Standard, typically lasting up to 24 months. The initial recruit’s course forms the first stage of training. If you do not already hold GCSE’s (A‑C/9‑4) in Maths and English, or equivalent, you will be required to achieve these as part of your development programme.
Salary and Benefits
£30,384 during the initial Recruit’s Course and through development. £38,881 once competent in role. In addition, LFRS offers an excellent benefits package including:
- Firefighters’ Pension Scheme
- Inclusive employment policies and structured development opportunities
- Free onsite parking
- Free access to workplace gym facilities
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Car Salary Sacrifice Scheme
Our Commitment to Inclusion
We actively encourage applications from women, members of Lancashire’s minority ethnic communities, and the LGBTQ+ community, as these groups are currently under‑represented within the Service. We are committed to reflecting the diversity of Lancashire’s communities, ensuring we deliver the best possible service to the people we protect.
Additional Information
This role is subject to a Standard Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check. Late applications cannot be accepted, including those affected by technical or device issues. Please be advised recruitment support is only available Monday to Friday 09:00 hours – 16:45 hours. If you experience any issues with the online application form, you can contact us on 01772 866845.
For further information about Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service and the recruitment process, please visit: www.lancsfirerescue.org.uk
Operational Wholetime Firefighter employer: Networking Women in the Fire Service
Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) is an exceptional employer, offering a rewarding career as an Operational Wholetime Firefighter within a supportive and inclusive workplace culture. With a strong commitment to employee development, LFRS provides structured training opportunities, competitive salaries, and a comprehensive benefits package, including access to gym facilities and a pension scheme. Join a dedicated team that values diversity and strives to make a positive impact in the communities of Lancashire.
Contact Details:
Networking Women in the Fire Service Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operational Wholetime Firefighter
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the role inside out! Research what it means to be an Operational Wholetime Firefighter. Understanding the responsibilities and challenges will help you shine during interviews and assessments.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! As a firefighter, you'll need to convey information clearly and confidently. Try role-playing scenarios with friends or family to build your confidence in delivering community safety advice.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay fit and ready! The physical fitness assessments are no joke, so make sure you're training regularly. Incorporate cardio and strength exercises into your routine to ensure you're at your best when the time comes.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website ASAP! With the potential for early closure of applications, don’t wait until the last minute. Get your application in early to secure your chance at this amazing opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Operational Wholetime Firefighter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know the Role:Before you start your application, take some time to really understand what being an Operational Wholetime Firefighter involves. This will help you tailor your application and show us that you're genuinely interested in the role.
Be Thorough and Complete:Make sure your application is complete before submitting it. We can't accept incomplete applications, so double-check everything from your personal details to your qualifications. It’s better to take a bit longer and get it right!
Showcase Your Skills:Highlight your interpersonal skills and commitment to public service in your application. We want to see how you can respond to emergencies and support your community, so give us examples of your experiences that demonstrate these qualities.
Apply Early!:Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. The vacancy may close early if we receive a lot of applications, so get yours in as soon as possible through our website. We’re excited to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Networking Women in the Fire Service
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the role of an Operational Wholetime Firefighter. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities, such as responding to emergencies and working in high-pressure environments. This knowledge will help you answer questions confidently and demonstrate your genuine interest in the position.
✨Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills
As a firefighter, strong interpersonal skills are crucial. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've effectively communicated or worked as part of a team. Highlight situations where you’ve supported vulnerable individuals or handled distressing situations calmly and professionally.
✨Prepare for Assessments
The recruitment process includes various assessments, so practice is key! Brush up on your verbal and numerical abilities, and get familiar with situational judgement tests. Consider doing some physical fitness training to ensure you're ready for the practical assessments, as they are a significant part of the selection process.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Inclusion
LFRS values diversity and inclusion, so be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to this culture. Share your thoughts on valuing different perspectives and how you would support community safety initiatives. Showing that you align with their core values will set you apart from other candidates.
