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- Tasks: Lead inspections and inquiries to improve fire and rescue services in Scotland.
- Company: Join HM Fire Service Inspectorate, an independent body ensuring effective public service.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, supportive environment, and a range of employee benefits.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on community safety and influence policy through your work.
- Qualifications: Relevant experience or academic background in Management or related fields.
- Other info: Dynamic team with opportunities for professional growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Do you have sector experience within either a local authority or defence fire and rescue service environment (or other blue light organisations), with knowledge across the functions of the Service? We are seeking an Assistant Inspector to join our small, dynamic team on a 3 year Fixed Term Appointment. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the scrutiny and improvement of fire and rescue services in Scotland.
Assistant Inspectors are integral to His Majesty's Fire Service Inspectorate (HMFSI) mission to provide assurance and drive improvement in the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. Your work will culminate in published reports that influence policy and deliver real impact for communities across Scotland. HMFSI provides independent, risk-based inspections of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) and professional advice to Scottish Ministers. Our work ensures that this critical public service operates effectively and efficiently, delivering assurance to government and communities across Scotland. Our values are Integrity, Objectivity, and Fairness, which are essential for the postholder.
Responsibilities
- Lead and participate in inspections and inquiries in line with legislation and HMFSI guidelines.
- Prepare strategic reports, briefing notes, and presentations.
- As required by the Chief Inspector, provide professional advice to Scottish Ministers.
- Represent HMFSI at national and local forums, occasionally deputising for the Chief Inspector.
- Manage allocated projects within the Inspectorate's business plan.
Qualifications
- Academic studies in Management or a related field or relevant experience.
Success profile
Success profiles are specific to each job and they include the mix of skills, experience and behaviours candidates will be assessed on.
Technical / Professional Skills
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret technical data and statistics.
- Knowledge of operational and strategic management issues facing fire and rescue services (or other blue light organisations), including risk management, training, health & safety, contingency planning, and service reform.
Experience
- Experience or an understanding of the scrutiny role of Public Services or other organisations.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, which are used to inform strategic decisions and policy.
Behaviours
- Changing and Improving - Level 4. Encourage, recognise and share innovative ideas from a diverse range of colleagues and stakeholders via Inspectorate reports. Create an environment where people feel safe to comment upon and to challenge current organisational practices and know their voice will be heard.
- Delivering at Pace - Level 4. Being clear about objectives, priorities and focusing on results. Ensure delivery of quality outcomes, maintain own levels of performance that assist HMFSI achieve its business priorities and goals.
How To Apply
Apply online, providing a CV and Supporting Statement (of no more than 1000 words) which provides evidence of how you meet the skills, experience and behaviours listed in the Success Profile above. Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools can be used to support your application, but all statements and examples provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, and presented as your own) applications will be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action.
If invited for further assessment, this will consist of an interview and presentation. Assessments are scheduled for w/c 23 February 2026, however this may be subject to change.
About Us
HM Fire Service Inspectorate (HMFSI) operates independently of Scottish Government and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS). We scrutinise, inspect and report on the SFRS with the purpose of assuring the public, and Scottish Ministers, that it is working in an efficient and effective way, and to promote continuous improvement in the Service. Our staff are part of the UK Civil Service, working for Ministers and senior stakeholders to deliver vital public services which improve the lives of the people of Scotland. We offer a supportive and inclusive working environment along with a wide range of employee benefits.
Working pattern
Our standard hours are 35 hours per week and we offer a range of flexible working options depending on the needs of the role, including Flexi-leave. Scottish Government staff in hybrid-compatible roles should aim to work in-person 40% of the time, either in an office or other agreed work location.
Security checks
Successful candidates must complete the Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS), before they can be appointed. BPSS is comprised of four main pre-employment checks – Identity, Right to work, Employment History and a Criminal Record check (unspent convictions). Security Check (SC) clearance will be required for this post.
Equality statement
We are committed to equality and inclusion and we aim to recruit a diverse workforce that reflects the population of our nation.
Further information
Find out more about our organisation, what we offer staff members and how to apply on our Careers Website. Read our Candidate Guide for further information on our recruitment and application processes.
Apply before: 9 February 2026 (23:59)
Assistant Inspector in Edinburgh employer: THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT
Contact Detail:
THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Inspector in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the fire and rescue sector or related blue light organisations. Attend events, join forums, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by knowing your stuff! Research HMFSI's recent reports and understand their mission. This will help you show that you're not just interested in the role, but also passionate about making a difference in the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend to do a mock interview with you. Focus on articulating your experience and how it aligns with the responsibilities of an Assistant Inspector. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform!
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team at HMFSI. So, get that CV and supporting statement ready and hit submit!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Inspector in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Assistant Inspector role. Highlight relevant experience in local authority or fire and rescue services, and showcase your analytical skills and understanding of operational management issues.
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Use it to provide clear examples of how you meet the skills and behaviours outlined in the Success Profile. Keep it concise and focused, sticking to the 1000-word limit.
Be Honest and Authentic: While AI tools can help, remember that your application must reflect your own experiences. Avoid any form of plagiarism; we value integrity and want to hear your genuine voice in your application.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered for this exciting opportunity with HMFSI.
How to prepare for a job interview at THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of fire and rescue services, especially the operational and strategic management issues they face. Familiarise yourself with risk management, health & safety, and service reform. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Since strong analytical skills are crucial for this position, prepare to discuss examples from your past where you've interpreted technical data or statistics. Think about how you can demonstrate your ability to analyse information and make informed decisions, as this will be key in your role as an Assistant Inspector.
✨Communicate Clearly
Excellent communication skills are a must, so practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Whether it's during the interview or in your presentation, ensure you can convey complex ideas in a straightforward manner. This will not only impress the interviewers but also reflect your capability to inform strategic decisions.
✨Embrace Change and Improvement
The role requires a mindset geared towards changing and improving practices. Be ready to share examples of how you've encouraged innovative ideas in previous roles. Highlighting your ability to create an environment where feedback is welcomed will resonate well with the values of HMFSI.
