Helping to promote fire safety. Principally local authority fire brigades but some recruitment by airports, The Army, The RAF and less commonly by large industrial companies. This is not possible or unlikely There are occasional opportunities in fire prevention consultancy, eg advising architectural practices, but most likely after retirement. Training Initial training is intensive, with up to 2 years probation and 4 years service before full qualification. Career development Promotion is dependent on passing statutory exams at each level up to officer level.
Promotion is usually internal.
Below Assistant Divisional Officer level, firefighters must retire at 55. There is a nationally agreed salary structure. Promotion to ranks beyond station officer is on merit but is limited by the number of senior posts. Working hours and conditions Typically includes regular unsocial hours Shift work is usual up to sub-officer rank. Firefighters operate as crew members, and are outdoors in all weathers.