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- Tasks: As a firefighter apprentice, you'll tackle emergencies and protect lives in various situations.
- Company: Join Sellafield Ltd, a leader in nuclear engineering management and safety.
- Benefits: Earn £19,207 annually, with potential bonuses up to £4,000 and salary increases in year 2.
- Why this job: Experience hands-on training, work outdoors, and make a real impact in your community.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science required; must be 18 by September 2025.
- Other info: This is a two-year apprenticeship with opportunities for full-time employment post-completion.
Firefighter Apprenticeship 2025
SELLAFIELD LIMITED
Sellafield Site / Surrounding offices in West Cumbria, CA20 1PG
Summary
Firefighters’ apprentices at Sellafield tackle a wide range of emergency situations where problem solving and initiative is vital to resolve incidents quickly and calmly. These situations vary from tackling fires, searching, rescuing and protecting people and animals, by sustaining/preserving their life to protecting life and the environment.
Annual wage
£19,207 a year
Increasing to £21,162 in year 2. Higher rates are applied to those aged 21 and over, year 2 salary £25,472.
You’ll have the opportunity to benefit from an annual bonus, linked to company performance, of up to £4000*.
Training course
Operational firefighter (level 3)
Hours
This is a two-year scheme. You will work normal office hours between 07:30-15:40, however at times may be required to work 12-hour shift pattern of 2-day shifts followed by 2-night shifts and 6 rest days.
37 hours a week
Possible start date
Monday 8 September
Duration
2 years
Positions available
6
Work
As an apprentice, you’ll work at a company and get hands-on experience. You’ll gain new skills and work alongside experienced staff.
What you’ll do at work
- Engage with the work community to conduct Fire Risk Information plans for site buildings and all other areas
- Work as part of a close-knit team of professionals that provides 24-hour response cover to resolve fire and rescue operational incidents
- Use multi agency working principles with partners and other services to achieve a swift and successful conclusion
- At Sellafield the Firefighters role also provides the site with ambulance and emergency medical response and various resilience and flood mitigation equipment
- You will need to maintain a smart appearance, wear uniform, fire kit and other personal protective equipment, as well as respiratory protective equipment such as self-contained breathing apparatus, necessary for work in hazardous areas and requiring the operators to be clean shaven
- In this role you will be quite often working outside in all weather conditions, at heights, in confined spaces and in nuclear facilities with alpha, beta, gamma and neutron radiation
- This role provides an exciting opportunity to explore and experience various aspects of the sites and provides great plant-based experience.
Where you’ll work
Sellafield Site / Surrounding offices in West Cumbria
CA20 1PG
Training
An apprenticeship includes regular training with a college or other training organisation. At least 20% of your working hours will be spent training or studying.
College or training organisation
GENII ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY TRAINING LIMITED
Your training course
Operational firefighter (level 3)
Equal to A level
Your training plan
Your initial training (acquisition of skills) will provide you with a range of practical basic firefighting and theoretical skills; these will be rigorously tested over an extended period of time to elevate you to a competent level (demonstration of skills).
Once competent in role you will move into maintenance of skills training to ensure that your acquired skills are maintained to the highest of operationally effective standards at all times.
- Level 3 Apprentice Certificate ‘Operational Firefighter’ from “Skills for Justice”.
- First Aid at Work Certificate.
- Immediate Emergency Care Level 3 Certificate.
- You training will be delivered at Sellafield Skills Centre
- Specialist skills training may be away from work and possibly during rest days
Requirements
Essential qualifications
GCSE or equivalent in:
- English Language (grade 4)
- Mathematics (grade 4)
- Science or Engineering (grade 4)
- Let the company know about other relevant qualifications and industry experience you have. They can adjust the apprenticeship to reflect what you already know.
Skills
- Communication skills
- Problem solving skills
- Team working
- Initiative
- Physical fitness
Other requirements
Minimum age of 18 by 8th September 2025 in-line with health and safety requirements of our nuclear site. It is a requirement of the role that you will hold a full clean driving licence (Class B Manual) by September 2025 to enable you to carry out your duties.
About this company
Sellafield Ltd is a global centre for nuclear engineering management. We pioneered the harnessing of nuclear power to generate electricity for the country. Now the world is watching as we set international standards in high-hazard reduction. In short, we’re at the forefront of the industry.
Disability Confident
A fair proportion of interviews for this apprenticeship will be offered to applicants with a disability or long-term health condition. This includes non-visible disabilities and conditions.
You can choose to be considered for an interview under the Disability Confident scheme. You’ll need to meet the essential requirements to be considered for an interview.
After this apprenticeship
Following successful completion of your apprenticeship, we will look to retain you in a professional full-time position at Sellafield Ltd.
The reference code for this apprenticeship is VAC1000290877.
Firefighter Apprenticeship 2025 - Cumbria employer: Sellafield Ltd
Contact Detail:
Sellafield Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Firefighter Apprenticeship 2025 - Cumbria
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to familiarize yourself with the specific emergency situations that firefighters face, especially in a nuclear facility. Understanding the unique challenges of this environment will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with local firefighting communities or volunteer organizations. This hands-on experience can provide you with valuable insights and skills that are directly applicable to the role at Sellafield.
✨Tip Number 3
Highlight your physical fitness and problem-solving abilities in conversations with current firefighters or mentors. They can offer tips on how to prepare for the physical demands of the job.
✨Tip Number 4
Consider obtaining relevant certifications, such as First Aid or Emergency Care, before applying. These qualifications not only enhance your resume but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Firefighter Apprenticeship 2025 - Cumbria
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Firefighter Apprenticeship. Familiarize yourself with the skills needed, such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork.
Tailor Your CV: Customize your CV to highlight relevant experiences and skills that align with the apprenticeship. Emphasize any previous work or volunteer experience in emergency services, teamwork, or physical fitness.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that explains why you are interested in the apprenticeship at Sellafield. Mention your passion for firefighting, your commitment to safety, and how you can contribute to the team.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Ensure you clearly list your GCSE qualifications and any other relevant certifications. If you have additional skills or experiences related to the role, be sure to mention them to stand out from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sellafield Ltd
✨Show Your Problem-Solving Skills
During the interview, be prepared to discuss specific examples where you've successfully solved problems in high-pressure situations. This role requires quick thinking and initiative, so demonstrating your ability to handle emergencies will set you apart.
✨Emphasize Teamwork Experience
Firefighting is a team effort, so highlight any past experiences where you've worked effectively as part of a team. Share stories that showcase your communication skills and how you contribute to group success.
✨Demonstrate Physical Fitness
Since the role involves physical challenges, it’s important to convey your commitment to maintaining physical fitness. You might want to mention any relevant activities or training that keep you in shape and ready for the demands of firefighting.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to firefighting techniques, safety protocols, and emergency response. Brush up on basic firefighting knowledge and be ready to discuss how you would apply this knowledge in real-life scenarios.
