Why work in Fire Protection?

Career development
White
  • Qualify whilst in employment
  • Receive a clear progression pathway with early promotion opportunities. (See structure)
  • Career satisfaction.
  • Excellent pay and benefits from entry-level
  • Training and development opportunities
  • Gain nationally recognised qualifications as part of your training
  • A technical function where you can put your skills and knowledge to use on a daily basis
Build unique experiences
White
  • Work in all types of locations e.g. behind the scenes at music venues and sporting events
  • Work alongside high-performing colleagues; with purpose
  • Be a part of a strong community
  • Enjoy a varied workload, where no two days are the same
Play a part in keeping your community safe
White
  • Protect and service your community
  • Help vulnerable people
  • Have an impact on fire reduction and safety. The number of fires has reduced over the years, help us to continue this trend
  • Improve public spaces and prosecute or prohibit those in the wrong
  • Save lives! 
Career opportunities and qualifications
White

The landscape of fire safety is changing. Amendments are being made to Fire Safety legislation, and it is firmly on the agenda of central government. This means it is an exciting time to join us and take advantage of the opportunities afforded by a career in fire safety with West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Business Fire Safety Advisor

You will enter the team as an Apprentice Business Fire Safety Advisor, during which time you will be supported to achieve your Level 3 Certificate in Fire Safety as well as benefit from an array of in-house training. This is a vital role in the department, as you will be our eyes and ears on the ground and our first port of call with members of the public as you provide advice on fire safety in premises throughout the county. Read more about the Level 3 Certificate in Fire Safety here. 

Providing you successfully complete the training and internal end point assessment; you will be appointed as a Business Fire Safety Advisor within WYFRS and will assist the Fire Authority in the discharge of its fire protection duties and responsibilities.

Opportunities will arise to progress within the team to Fire Protection Inspector should you wish to do so further along in your career.

Fire Protection Inspector

You will enter the team as an Apprentice Fire Safety Inspector, during which time you will be supported to achieve your Level 4 Certificate in Fire Safety and Level 4 Diploma in Fire Safety as well as benefit from an array of in-house training. Read more about the Level 4 Certificate in Fire Safety here. Read more about the Level 4 Diploma in Fire Safety here. This is a nationally recognised qualification and a requirement for Inspectors in brigades across the country.

Upon completion of the Level 4 Diploma, in-house training workbooks, and legal qualifications, you will be you will be appointed as a Fire Protection Inspector within WYFRS. As a fully qualified Fire Protection Inspector you will undertake audits in all relevant premises and take the necessary enforcement action. This could entail anything from providing advice to carrying out a full investigation for a potential prosecution. In addition, you will have the skills necessary to consult on planning applications for new builds and material alterations to existing buildings, helping shape the way the county looks and helping to ensure that buildings are safe before they are ever occupied.

Opportunities to develop would not end there. We currently have a cohort undertaking the Level 5 Diploma in Fire Engineer Design (Technician) to take their knowledge to the next level. 

Where there is a business case, and the candidate has shown an exceptional aptitude for fire safety and engineering, there may arise the opportunity to undertake a bachelor’s degree in engineering in Fire Safety with an accredited university. It is envisaged that this role will become more common in fire services due to the changing landscape of fire safety and how high-risk, complex buildings will be managed all the way from the planning stage.

Application process
White
  • Step 1

    Online Application

    Prior to applying you should check that you meet the essential application requirements.  In the supporting statement section of the application form give clear, concise examples of how you meet all the Essential/Application Form person specification criteria. Please read the guidance documents within the advertisement.

  • Step 2

    Selection Process

    If your initial application is successful, you will enter the selection process.

  • Step 3

    Interview

    If you are successful through the selection process you will be invited for an interview (the date and time of which will be advised as soon as possible).

  • Step 4

    Medical

    You will be asked to:

    • Complete a health questionnaire for the Occupational Health Unit
    • Participate in drug and alcohol screening
  • Step 5

    Checks and References

    As a Government Agency, we must check the information you provided in your application. This includes:

    • Basic Disclosure and Baring Service (DBS) Check
    • Online check of your driving licence
    • Providing details of qualifications, evidence of identity, references covering a minimum of three years’ work/academic history and five years’ address history
  • Step 6

    Offer of employment

    Start date 9 September 2024. 
     

Testimonials

Beckie Walton | Fire Engineer

Beckie Walton FIre Protection

 

"I joined Fire Safety in 2008 after my dad (a Watch Manager in Fire Safety) told me Fire Safety was the best place to work. I trained as a fire safety inspector dealing with all types of commercial premises, surrounded by some fantastic mentors. 

Having spent time with the Fire Engineering team I knew this was where I wanted my career to head. My current role involves ensuring new and refurbished buildings meet the fire safety requirements of both the Building Regulations and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order. I liaise with architects, developers, building control bodies, and fire engineers to ensure the buildings are or will be safe for occupation. This is a vital part of the development process as it offers the chance to get a building right from the outset.

Having asked to be considered for a degree in previous PDR’s I was delighted that in 2019 this was agreed. I started my Bachelors in Fire Engineering in 2020 on a part-time basis at the University of Central Lancashire in Preston. This involves attending campus for four, two-week blocks of lectures each year and plenty of study in my own time in between. The support from everyone in the department has been immeasurable. I am looking forward to graduating this year and seeing what the unprecedented changes in the fire safety landscape will bring.”

 


Leon Paul | Fire Protection Inspector

Fire Protection Inspector Leon

 

"When I first applied to be a firefighter, I was passionate about making a difference in my community. Unfortunately, I didn’t pass the medical stage of the recruitment process. Disheartened, but still driven by my desire to contribute, I discovered the role of a Fire Protection Officer.

This role has exceeded my expectations in every way. Every day is different, offering the unique opportunity to support a wide range of communities and businesses throughout West Yorkshire. My work involves ensuring safety, conducting inspections, educating the public, and directly contributing to saving lives. The variety keeps me engaged and constantly learning.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this job is the clear path for career progression. From day one, I have been paid to train, gaining valuable skills and qualifications that open doors for future opportunities.

What truly makes this role special is the sense of inclusion and teamwork. Our department is inclusive, welcoming, and committed to community safety. We work seamlessly together, whether through fire safety education, technical inspections, or business outreach programs.

I am incredibly proud to make a difference in the community where I live. Finding myself in this role after my initial setback has been a blessing in disguise, allowing me to fulfil my passion for helping others in ways I never imagined."