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Firefighter : Salary and conditions

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  1. Job description
  2. Salary and conditions
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  • There is a nationally agreed salary structure for firefighters. See the Fire Brigades Union (FBU)  for details of salary rates (including overtime rates) for whole-time and retained firefighters.
  • Starting salary for a trainee firefighter is £21,157. When full competence is achieved, this rises to £28,199. Higher rates apply for overtime.
  • Crew manager salaries range from £29,971 (development) to £31,263 (competent) and watch manger salaries range from £31,940 - £34,961.
  • A station manager's earning potential is between £36,365 and £40,109 plus overtime rates, subject to the officer's level of competence.
  • Further advancement to the role of group manager and then area manager attracts salaries of between £41,881 and £53,934, depending on the level of competence. (All salary data collected June 2010, FBU.)
  • There are two types of firefighter: whole-time and retained. Whole-time members generally work in urban areas, whereas retained firefighters tend to cover rural areas, responding to pagers when an emergency call is received. Most brigades offer several types of retained contract based on different levels of commitment. See the FBU website for salary information, including the full annual retainer, pay rate per hour and disturbance payment per call-out.
  • Working hours typically include regular unsocial hours. Firefighters work on average a 42-hour week and usually work in shifts - most work two day shifts followed by two night shifts and then have four days off. However, different services employ different duty systems, depending on their needs. When necessary, paid overtime is worked.
  • The work often takes place in dangerous and unpleasant conditions: heat, cold, at heights, in enclosed spaces, in smoke-filled buildings, and in all kinds of weather conditions. You may be exposed to danger from collapsing buildings or vehicles, explosions and fumes. You need to be physically fit, as firefighters carry heavy equipment and breathing apparatus.
  • Job-sharing and part-time work are possible.
  • Self-employment/freelance work may be possible, depending on shift patterns, but is more likely to occur after retirement. Opportunities might include consultancy or training.
  • The numbers of female and black and minority ethnic firefighters is increasing through positive recruitment strategies. Contact your local fire and rescue service for details of targeted recruitment events.
  • Jobs are available throughout the UK. See Ordinary People, Extraordinary Career  for a list of UK fire and rescue services.
  • Smart appearance is important. Male firefighters are not permitted to have beards, sideburns or moustaches since they could prevent the breathing apparatus facemask from working effectively.
  • Travel within a working day is frequent. Absence from home overnight (other than rostered duty) and overseas work or travel are generally uncommon.
 
AGCAS
Written by AGCAS editors
Date: 
July 2010
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