Firefighters

Firefighters will be called upon to tackle various emergency situations where problem solving skills and initiative will be vital to resolve issues quickly and calmly. There are certain personal attributes required and these include confidence, resilience, an ability to communicate effectively and a commitment to equality and diversity. As a firefighter you will be expected to undertake a continuous programme of training and take responsibility for developing your own skills and ensuring that your fitness levels are maintained, as the work can be both physically and mentally demanding.

Firefighter recruitment is always a competitive process, with an extremely high number of applicants competing for a low number of positions; therefore it will be necessary to only take the highest performing individuals at each stage of the selection process to progress to the next level. Our online recruitment process is designed to make an initial assessment of your potential to work as a Firefighter using a range of specifically designed questions which examine the qualities and basic knowledge required for the role.

The recruitment and selection process will comprise:

The Firefighter Application Form

The application form provides the Fire and Rescue Service with your personal details such as work history or qualifications and gives you an opportunity to demonstrate any evidence that you have in meeting the employee specification. If an area is essential you cannot be considered for the role of Fire fighter unless you possess that element of the criteria.

Practical and Physical Tests

You will be required to undertake physical tests which aim to assess your level of fitness, strength and manual dexterity as well as your level of confidence in simulated exercises.

The following tests are designed to reflect operational practice and may change from time to time.
Ladder Climb
Casualty Evacuation
Ladder Lift / Lower Simulation
Enclosed Space
Equipment Carry
Fitness Test
Bleep or Chester Treadmill Test

On-line tests

These stages consist of three different tests which assess an applicant’s ability to process information, problem solve and work with numbers.. The tests may include, but are not limited to:
• Verbal Ability
• Numerical Ability
• Firefighter Talent Screener
NB Verbal and numerical tests will be completed using pencil and paper during Covid restrictions.

Interview

The interview consists of a face to face to discussion. The format will be a series of questions about your experience, knowledge, skills and abilities against the employee specification which is also available on the website so you can consider the qualifications, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities we are looking for.

The Medical Assessment

Once you are nearing the end of the selection process, you will be invited to attend a medical assessment, where you will be examined by the Fire and Rescue Service Doctor and your medical records obtained from your GP if applicable. You will also be asked to complete a questionnaire covering your medical history and will then be subject to a series of tests including:
• Hearing Test
• Step Test
• Lung Function
• Physical Stamina
• General Tests

Are you ready?

Firefighter recruitment is always a competitive process; with an extremely high number of applicants therefore it will be necessary to only take the highest performing individuals at each stage of the selection process to progress to the next level. If you are interested in joining us we would suggest that you consider all the information on our website and take the appropriate steps so you can be fully prepared