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Wholetime Firefighters

Our Wholetime Recruitment process is currently closed.

You may want to consider our On Call firefighter opportunities.

  • Firefighters come in all ages, shapes and sizes. 

    While you do have to be physically fit, good technique can really help. 

  • Are you engaging, approachable, supportive, resilient, compassionate and adaptable? Becoming a firefighter is an amazing career and it could be perfect for you! 

  • These tests are related to the actual tasks a firefighter will face and are designed to test fitness and the ability to understand and apply information

  • You may have heard of Couch to 5K – a brilliant way to you running in just a number of weeks, even if you have never run before

Frequently asked questions -

Question - I just wanted to get in touch and ask about when the application process opens for wholetime firefighters as I was concerned that I may have not been sent a link or missed out.

Answer - Applications will be opening mid-March

Question – Can I transfer my existing pension if I join?

Answer - Our firefighters are auto-enrolled in the firefighters 2015 scheme, which can accept transfers in from other schemes. Here’s some information: Transferring pension from other schemes | Firefighters' Pension Scheme. It’s obviously wise to get independent advice on whether it’s worth it.

Question - Is there a minimum for full pension?

Answer - I have been told our staff are auto-enrolled in the 2015 scheme. This page tells you all about it: Firefighters' Pension Scheme 2015 | Firefighters' Pension Scheme. This is probably the most relevant page: When can I retire? | Firefighters' Pension Scheme

Question - Can I be a reservist in the Army whilst being a firefighter.

Answer - East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service (ESFRS) supports membership of the Armed Reserve Forces by our employees. We will allow individuals to become members of the Volunteer Reserve Forces, as far as the operational demands of the Service allow.