At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop teams while ensuring operational excellence in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join the second largest fire service in England, dedicated to community safety.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, enhanced family leave, free gym access, and wellbeing programmes.
- Other info: Diversity is valued; applications from under-represented groups are encouraged.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while growing as a leader.
- Qualifications: Must be a competent wholetime firefighter or existing Crew Commander.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
Overview
West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS) is the second largest fire and rescue service in England, serving an area of 902km square and a population of over 2.9 million people. Our vision is ‘Making the West Midlands safer, stronger and healthier’. This vision and the strategic goals outlined in ‘Our Strategy’ are what drives the people, professionalism and pride with which we serve our communities.
West Midlands Fire Service is looking for enthusiastic, self-motivated leaders to join our team as Crew Commanders. Vacancies are available across the West Midlands. As a Crew Commander, you will thrive in a dynamic environment, managing and developing teams while instilling a culture of professionalism and pride. You will plan and coordinate workloads, drive organisational strategy, and maintain the highest standards of excellence in everything you do.
Responsibilities
- With a proven ability to manage, you will engage and develop teams and individuals.
- Drive positive and inclusive approaches to leadership, creating an environment where others can maximise their strengths.
- Support, drive, and promote our organisational strategy while maintaining operational excellence.
- The role is aligned to the crew commander role map.
Experience and Skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, combined with cultural awareness.
- You will have a strong understanding of your own leadership style, strengths, and areas for personal development, alongside a commitment to fostering growth in others.
- Strong leadership skills.
Eligibility Criteria
Opportunities are open to:
- Competent wholetime firefighters.
- Existing wholetime Crew Commanders.
Benefits
We offer a friendly working environment and benefits including:
- Enhanced family leave benefits, including 52 weeks fully paid maternity and adoption leave.
- Flexible and agile working arrangements.
- On-site free gym facilities.
- Free parking.
We also offer access to an in-house occupational health facility - including occupational health and fitness advisors, sports therapists, physiotherapists, cognitive behavioural therapy practitioners and counsellors. In addition, employees have access to:
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
- Wellbeing programmes.
- ‘Blue light’ discounts across many retailers through partner schemes.
- Sports and Welfare scheme (for a small fee) – with access to discounted products and services.
Diversity
We welcome applications from all eligible candidates. However, as women and Black and minority ethnic employees are currently under-represented in our service, we particularly encourage applications from these groups. WMFS is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults. We expect the same of every staff member.
Successful candidates will be subject to necessary pre-employment checks, including - where applicable - relevant level Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, qualifications, medical clearance, identity and right to work. All applicants will be required to provide two suitable references.
How to apply
Please submit your CV alongside a personal statement. Your personal statement should detail your skills, experience, and suitability in relation to the Crew Commander role.
Questions
If you have any questions about the role, or would like an informal discussion, please contact Joanne Simmonds by email at joanne.simmonds@wmfs.net.
Operational Crew Commander - Transfer in employer: WMFS
West Midlands Fire Service is an exceptional employer, dedicated to making the West Midlands safer, stronger, and healthier. With a strong emphasis on professional development, our Crew Commanders benefit from a supportive work culture that prioritises leadership growth, flexible working arrangements, and comprehensive wellbeing programmes. Employees enjoy enhanced family leave benefits, access to free gym facilities, and a commitment to diversity, making WMFS a rewarding place to build a meaningful career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operational Crew Commander - Transfer in
✨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 WMFS 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 WMFS.
We think you need these skills to ace Operational Crew Commander - Transfer in
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 WMFS 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 WMFS 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 WMFS
✨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 WMFS. It shows you’re proactive about your professional development!
