At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to respond to emergencies and save lives in your community.
- Company: Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service, a vital part of local emergency response.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, training opportunities, and discounts.
- Other info: Flexible hours, diverse staff networks, and ongoing support for personal development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while gaining respect and satisfaction from serving your community.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, fit, and live within 5-8 minutes of a fire station.
Suffolk County Council, Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service
- Suffolk County Council, Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service
- Location: South District - Debenham, Felixstowe, Framlingham, Hadleigh, Holbrook, Ipswich East, Nayland, Needham Market, Orford and Woodbridge.
- Salary: Annual salary / retainer fee, plus an hourly rate and disturbance fee for attending incidents and training
- Hours: On Call hours
- Contract: Permanent
How would you like a job that earns you extra money and fits around your work and family commitments?
Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service are recruiting On-Call Firefighters to join our emergency response service to deal with fires, road traffic collisions and a wide range of emergencies.
On-Call Firefighters are a vital part of the Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service. They provide an efficient, effective service that gives emergency cover across the county. In Suffolk, on-call Firefighters make up 66% of the Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service workforce and are generally located in rural communities, small towns and villages.
Minimum Requirements
- Minimum 18 years old (there is no upper age limit).
- Live or work within 5 to 8 minutes of a fire station in Suffolk.
- Hold a full UK driving license and access to personal transport.
- Have a reasonable level of personal fitness.
- Have permission to be released from your main employment to attend emergency incidents (if you will be attending calls whilst at work).
- Can operate at heights and confined spaces.
- Keep calm under pressure.
- Ability to work well in a team.
- Can develop your skills and work independently.
Hours of Work and Pay
You would be contracted to work a set number of hours based on your availability, during which, you would need to keep a pager with you. You would agree which hours you cover; it could be days, nights, weekends or a combination of these.
To find out more, please read our guide to what an On-Call Firefighter is paid (Word).
Benefits of being an On-Call Firefighter
- The satisfaction and respect that comes with providing such a crucial service.
- Membership of a competitive Firefighters\' Pension scheme.
- Issued with a uniform and personal protective equipment.
- Eligibility for a Blue Light card .
- A lifetime of support from the Firefighters Charity for you and your loved ones.
- Access to national training schemes facilitated by the Fire Service College, Women in the Fire Service and the Asian Fire Service Association.
- An annual cost‑of‑living increase.
- Training and encouragement to expand your knowledge.
- Diverse and active staff networks.
Additional benefits include shopping vouchers and discounts, public transport discounts, tax‑free bike schemes, a health, wellbeing and lifestyle support scheme, plus lots more!
If you want to know more about our benefits, values and equality commitments please visit our Suffolk County Council careers website.
Stations Available
Debenham, Felixstowe, Framlingham, Hadleigh, Holbrook, Ipswich East, Ipswich - Princes Street, Nayland, Needham Market, Orford, Woodbridge.
You will state in your application which station you are applying for. Please note that the cover required will be subject to station need and will form part of the shortlisting process.
Find out more about the fire stations in Suffolk and find your nearest station .
For More Information
Please read our On-Call Firefighter information pack and visit our On-Call Firefighter site .
For any further questions, please contact our Recruitment Team by emailing SFRS.Recruitment@suffolk.gov.uk .
How to Apply
Step 1: Read the Job and Person Profile (JPP) (Word).
Step 2: Complete the Supporting Statement Form (Word) which includes 3 questions (other formats will not be accepted).
Step 3: Start your online application using Apply Now and upload your supporting statement on the final page.
Please note: Without a supporting statement, your interest will not be progressed. Any supporting documents must be in either PDF or MS Word format. If you would like an adjustment to this process due to a disability, please contact us at 03456 014412 or recruitment@suffolk.gov.uk
Closing date: 11.30pm, 31 January 2026
This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts.
On Call Firefighter employer: Suffolk County Council
Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service is an exceptional employer, offering On-Call Firefighters the opportunity to serve their local communities while enjoying a supportive work culture that values teamwork and personal development. With competitive benefits including a robust pension scheme, access to national training programmes, and a commitment to employee wellbeing, this role not only provides meaningful work but also fosters growth and camaraderie among staff in the picturesque setting of Suffolk.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land On Call Firefighter
✨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 Suffolk County Council 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 Suffolk County Council.
We think you need these skills to ace On Call Firefighter
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 Suffolk County Council 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 Suffolk County Council 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 Suffolk County Council
✨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 Suffolk County Council. It shows you’re proactive about your professional development!
