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- Tasks: Join the emergency response team to tackle fires and various emergencies.
- Company: Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service, a vital community service.
- Benefits: Earn extra money, enjoy a pension scheme, and receive training opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while gaining valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, fit, and live within 5-8 minutes of a fire station.
- Other info: Flexible hours that fit around your life and commitments.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 28000 £ per year.
On Call Firefighter
Suffolk Jobs Direct
Suffolk, IP1 2DH
Permanent
Part time
Description
- Suffolk County Council, Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service
- Location: West District – Brandon, Bury St Edmunds, Clare, Elmswell, Haverhill, Ixworth, Mildenhall, Newmarket, Stowmarket, Sudbury and Wickhambrook
- 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 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 amount 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
Brandon, Bury St Edmunds, Clare, Elmswell, Haverhill, Ixworth, Mildenhall, Newmarket, Stowmarket, Sudbury, Wickhambrook.
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 advert, Job and Person Profile (JPP) (Word).
- Step 2: Complete the Supporting Statement Form which includes 3 questions (other formats will not be accepted).
- Step 3: Click \’Apply Now\’ to start your online application 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, 30 November 2025
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 checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts.
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On Call Firefighter employer: Suffolk County Council
Contact Detail:
Suffolk County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land On Call Firefighter
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the fire station you're applying to! Visit it if you can, chat with current firefighters, and get a feel for the team. This shows your genuine interest and helps you tailor your approach.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your interview skills! Think about common questions they might ask, like how you handle pressure or work in a team. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or family to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your fitness! Since being an On-Call Firefighter requires a good level of personal fitness, consider sharing any relevant activities or training you do. It’s a great way to demonstrate your commitment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to highlight your flexibility! Being available for various shifts is key, so make sure to mention your availability clearly. We want to see that you can adapt to the needs of the station.
We think you need these skills to ace On Call Firefighter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly: Before you dive into your application, take a good look at the job description. It’s packed with info about what we’re looking for in an On-Call Firefighter, so make sure you understand the requirements and responsibilities.
Craft Your Supporting Statement Carefully: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Answer the three questions thoughtfully, showcasing your skills and experiences that align with the role. Remember, this is where we get to know you better!
Stick to the Format: Make sure you use the Supporting Statement Form provided. We won’t be able to accept any other formats, so keep it simple and follow our guidelines to avoid any hiccups in your application.
Apply Through Our Website: When you’re ready, hit that 'Apply Now' button on our website. It’s the easiest way to submit your application and ensures it gets to us without any fuss. Don’t forget to upload your supporting statement!
How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk County Council
✨Know Your Role
Make sure you understand the responsibilities of an On-Call Firefighter. Familiarise yourself with the types of emergencies you might face and the skills required, such as teamwork and staying calm under pressure. This will help you answer questions confidently.
✨Show Your Commitment
Since this role requires flexibility, be prepared to discuss your availability and how you can manage your main job alongside being on-call. Highlight any previous experiences where you've successfully balanced multiple commitments.
✨Demonstrate Fitness and Readiness
Physical fitness is key for this role. Be ready to talk about your fitness routine and any relevant training you've undertaken. If you have experience operating in challenging environments, like heights or confined spaces, make sure to mention it!
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare a few thoughtful questions about the role or the team dynamics. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you. For example, ask about the training opportunities available for On-Call Firefighters.
