How do I become a Retained Firefighter? |
If you live and / or work within close proximity of a Retained fire station the first step is to contact the Service's Human Resources Department on 01267 242636 in order to receive an application form.
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Where are the current vacancies for Retained Firefighters? |
The Service currently has vacancies at the following Stations:-
- Aberystwyth
- Carmarthen
- Llanwrtyd Wells
- Pontyates
- Newquay
- Crickhowell
- Pontarddulais
- Montgomery
- Narberth
- Hay on Wye
- Cymmer
- Seven Sisters
- Port Talbot
- Whitland
- Llanfyllin
- Machynlleth
- Llanidloes
- Talgarth
- Aberaeron
- Llandysul
- Llandeilo
- Tumble
- Cardigan
- Builth Wells
- Tregaron
- Abercrave
- Llandrindod Wells
- Newcastle Emlyn
However, we are happy to accept applicants for our other Retained Stations, which will be held on file until a vacancy arises.
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Will I get paid for attending the Initial Recruits Course? |
Yes. You will receive the appropriate hourly rate for a trainee firefighter (please see attached table for exact amount)
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How long does it take to get through the recruitment process?
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The recruitment process is designed to lead into the Retained Initial Recruits' Courses which are scheduled to run on a quarterly basis, commencing every January, June and October. The courses are run at the following venues:-
1. Newtown
2. Morriston
3. Haverfordwest
Although we are unable to provide a exact timeframes for each selection test, it is envisaged that that the first stage of the selection process (the written assessment) will take place approximately 3 months before the start of each recruits' course.
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When do I need to attend the Station?
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When you request an application form you will be provided with the day and time of the drill night of the Station of which you have supplied. You will then need to attend for a discussion prior to assessment.
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What do the written assessments involve?
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The psychometric assessments form an important part of the selection process and characteristics related to the role of firefighter. They include the following:-
National Firefighter Questionnaire
National Firefighter ability tests:-
- Working with numbers
- Understanding information
- Situational awareness and problem solving
When you receive your invitation to undertake these tests, a practice booklet will also be enclosed. This will allow you to prepare for the tests and familiarize yourself with the types of questions you will be asked.
You must pass each test in order to progress onto the next stage.
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Am I fit/strong enough?
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Firefighters need to have sufficient fitness and strength to be able to do the job. As part of the selection process we will assess your fitness and strength against national standards.
You will be asked to undertake six physical tests. You will need to pass all six tests in order to proceed to the next stage. At the commencement of each test you will be given a detailed briefing on the test you are asked to perform. A brief introduction to each test is detailed below for your information.
The elements included in the physical test areas follows:-
Ladder Climb
This test is designed to assess confidence at heights and the ability to follow instructions.
- Ascend a 135 Fire Service Ladder (13.5m) to a point two thirds of the way up and take a leg-lock.
- Lean backwards, arms outstretched and whilst looking over your shoulder, identify a symbol being shown by the assessor at ground level.
Casualty Evacuation
This test is designed to assess upper and lower body strength and co-ordination. You will be asked to :-
- Drag a dummy (55kg) backwards around a 30m course around 4 cones, by a carrying handle fixed to the dummy. You will be guided by a safety officer.
Ladder Lift
- Raise the bar of a ladder lift simulator to the required height (190cm) with 15kg of weight placed on the simulator cradle, which gives a total lift load of approximately 30kg.
- You will be given the opportunity of perform an initial lift of 5kg on the cradle.
Breathing Apparatus In Enclosed Space
This test is designed to assess confidence, agility and stamina and an identification of claustrophobic tendencies. You will be asked to :-
- Wear a breathing apparatus set with the facemask obscured and negotiate a crawl way.
Equipment Assembly
This is a test of manual dexterity. You will be asked to:-
- Assemble and then disassemble a portable pump following a demonstration of the test by one of the assessors.
- A set of pictures will be visible throughout the test to describe the assembly/disassembly.
Equipment Carry
This test is designed to assess upper and lower body strength, co-ordination and stamina. You will be asked to:-
- Carry items of equipment up and down two cones placed 25m apart.
- It is not a test of memory as the assessor will remind you of the sequence of events.
- Demonstrations will be given of the correct lifting techniques and you will be given an opportunity to practice picking up the various items.
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What happens once I have passed the assessments?
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Once you have completed all the necessary assessments you will be invited for a programme of pre-employment screening to include:-
- Reference Checks
- Drug and Alcohol Screening
- Medical
- CRB Check
Once these are complete, subject to a suitable vacancy existing at that time, you will be allocated a space on the next available Initial Recruits' Course, prior to commencement on Station.
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What if I change my address during the recruitment process?
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You should inform the Service's Human Resources Department of any changes to your circumstances during the selection process. You will then be advised of any impact this has on your application.
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Is transport/accommodation provided for the assessments/ initial recruits' course?
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Transport will be provided for all candidates for the duration of the course. However, they must arrange their own transport for the first day.
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