Application process for wholetime firefighters
There are a few steps to becoming a firefighter, but we promise it’s a worthwhile journey.
This page explains the steps involved and what happens after you've submitted your application form.
Step one
The first step is our online application form. This is where you fill in your personal details and explain how you meet the eligibility criteria.
Once you have submitted your application, you must not apply again. If you are unsuccessful, you can apply again after a specified reapplication time has passed.
Step two
You’ll then complete two online behavioural tests and three online ability tests.
You’ll receive an email link inviting you to take the test, with practice tests too. You can have a go at the practice tests as many times as you like.
Find out what you can expect in the (https://www.dsfire.gov.uk/careers/preparing-online-tests)online tests (https://devon-somerset-fire-rescue.demo.bbdtest.co.uk/preparing-online-tests).
Step three
An important part of being a firefighter is making sure you have a good level of fitness. We assess this through a bleep test and a swimming test.
Step four
Applications will be shortlisted inline with safer recruitment processes.
Step five
Now onto the practical assessments. It’s here that you’ll complete the following activities:
- Ladder lift
- Ladder climb
- Equipment assembly
- Equipment carry
- Breathing apparatus and confined space.
Step six
Now it’s time for the interview, where you’ll be asked about your experience, knowledge and skills. It’s here that we want to see whether you’ve got the qualities we’re looking for.
You’ll also give a ten-minute presentation. You will have access to a laptop and flip chart if you wish to use them. You can also bring in visual aids to support your presentation.
Step seven
We’ll carry out a medical and fitness assessment here to make sure you’re able to do the role. This includes:
- height and weight measurement to give an idea of general health
- blood pressure test
- urinalysis
- an eye test (with and without glasses if you wear them)
- a breathing test to check your lung function
- a hearing test
- fitness assessment.
You’ll be asked questions about your health and any disabilities or medical needs you may have. All cases are looked at individually while following professional medical guidance.
Our fitness advisers will carry out a fitness assessment as part of the medical called a VO2 max test. You will jog on a treadmill wearing a facemask while connected to an analyser. The gradient and speed will gradually increase. This will measure your lung capacity. This test equates to level 8.8 on the bleep test.
You’ll also complete an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Please find more information on the Gov.uk website (https://www.gov.uk/tell-employer-or-college-about-criminal-record/check-your-conviction-caution).
Step eight
Following the medical stage, the references on your application will be followed up. When everything is cleared, you’ll receive a contract of employment and a start date for your initial training.
Congratulations
Once you've reached this stage, it's time to celebrate. You’ll now be an apprentice firefighter.
Attending assessments
Once you have the dates for your assessments, we recommend putting these in your diary or on a calendar. If you arrive late to any of the assessments or forget to attend, you will be withdrawn from the application process.
Re-applying
If you're unsuccessful at any point during this process, you'll be able to reapply 12 months from the date you're emailed confirming you are unsuccessful.