At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a skilled team responding to fires, rescues, and ambulance calls in a unique environment.
- Company: NRS Dounreay, a leader in emergency response and safety.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pensionable shift allowance, and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for career growth and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while gaining specialist training.
- Qualifications: Qualified firefighter with strong teamwork and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Join a highly skilled emergency response team at the heart of one of the UK’s most unique operational environments. NRS Dounreay is looking for two fully qualified, dedicated, resilient, and community-focused professionals to deliver critical fire, rescue and ambulance support across the Dounreay and Vulcan sites, as well as the surrounding area. This is a rare opportunity to combine frontline emergency response with specialist training and development in a technically advanced setting. Working within Dounreay Fire, Ambulance & Rescue Service (DFARS), you’ll play a vital role in protecting people, assets and the environment while contributing to a culture of safety, preparedness and operational excellence. You’ll be part of a day shift watch, with opportunities to provide additional cover when needed, supported by a pensionable shift allowance and ongoing professional development.
What You'll Be Doing
- Respond to a wide range of incidents including fires, rescues, ambulance calls and specialist services, ensuring rapid and professional emergency response.
- Deliver and support training for emergency teams, site personnel and local responders, including first aid, breathing apparatus and rope rescue.
- Maintain equipment, vehicles and operational readiness through inspections, testing and adherence to DFARS procedures.
- Contribute to exercises, drills and continuous improvement, ensuring preparedness for major incidents on and off-site.
What You'll Bring
- SVQ Emergency Fire Service: Operations in the Community SCQF level 7 / SFJ Awards or equivalent fulltime firefighter qualification.
- Strong team player with excellent communication skills and a proactive approach to safety and decision-making.
- Physically fit and able to meet demanding health and fitness standards required for emergency response roles.
- Experience in an emergency response environment is desirable, along with a willingness to develop into specialist roles such as ambulance practitioner and rope rescue operator.
- Knowledge of (or willingness to learn) the Dounreay site and its decommissioning context, with a commitment to ongoing training and development.
We are looking to hold interviews week commencing Monday 8 June 2026, however, please note that this vacancy may close earlier than the stated deadline should we receive a high volume of applications, so we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible. If you require assistance at any point during the recruitment process contact careers@dounreay.nrservices.uk at the appropriate time so we can make any necessary, reasonable adjustment. Please note: All successful candidates who do not already hold security clearance will need to provide proof of identity, eligibility to work in the UK, and employment/education history (typically covering the last 3–5 years) in line with NRS Baseline Security requirements. Some roles may also require full Security Clearance, which involves additional checks. For details, please refer to the Defence Business Services National Security Vetting (DBS NSV) guidance.
Firefighter/Ambulance Technician in Thurso employer: Nuclear Restoration Services
NRS Dounreay offers an exceptional work environment for Firefighter/Ambulance Technicians, combining a commitment to community safety with advanced training opportunities in a unique operational setting. Employees benefit from a supportive culture that prioritises professional development, competitive pension schemes, and the chance to engage in meaningful emergency response work that directly impacts the local area. Join a dedicated team where your skills will be honed, and your contributions will be valued in safeguarding both people and the environment.
Contact Details:
Nuclear Restoration Services Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Firefighter/Ambulance Technician in Thurso
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Dounreay site and its operations. Familiarising yourself with the environment will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role. We recommend doing a bit of research on their recent projects and safety protocols.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! As a firefighter/ambulance technician, you'll need to convey information clearly and effectively. We suggest role-playing scenarios with friends or family to build your confidence in handling emergency situations.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of networking. Reach out to current or former employees at Dounreay through LinkedIn or local community groups. They can provide insights into the culture and expectations, which could give you an edge during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're proactive and serious about joining the team. Remember, the sooner you apply, the better your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Firefighter/Ambulance Technician in Thurso
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for emergency response shine through. We want to see that you’re not just qualified, but genuinely excited about the role and the impact you can make in the community.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description. We love seeing how your background aligns with what we’re looking for, so don’t be shy about showcasing your qualifications!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so avoid jargon and focus on delivering your message effectively. This will help us understand your strengths quickly!
Apply Early:Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application! We encourage you to apply through our website as soon as possible, especially since the vacancy may close early if we get a lot of applications. Get your foot in the door!
How to prepare for a job interview at Nuclear Restoration Services
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re familiar with the Dounreay site and its decommissioning context. Brush up on your emergency response protocols, especially those related to fire and ambulance services. This knowledge will show that you're not just qualified but genuinely interested in the role.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
As a firefighter/ambulance technician, teamwork is crucial. Be ready to share examples of how you've worked effectively in a team before. Highlight your communication skills and proactive approach to safety, as these are key traits they’re looking for.
✨Get Fit and Ready
Physical fitness is a must for this role. Make sure you’re aware of the health and fitness standards required and be prepared to discuss how you meet them. If you have any experience in physically demanding roles, don’t hesitate to mention it!
✨Prepare for the Unexpected
Interviews can sometimes throw curveballs. Think about potential scenarios you might face in the role and how you would handle them. Practising situational questions can help you feel more confident and ready to tackle anything they throw your way.
