What are the working hours?
The initial training period is spent on day duties – weekdays from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm. When you are posted to a fire station you will work a 42-hour week in shifts. On most (but not all) stations that means two days, followed by two nights and then four days off.
Where will I be based?
Every effort is made to base you near to home, but it is not always possible and you may be asked to work at any fire station within Kent and Medway Fire and Rescue Authority's area. Later in your career you may need to change your base to take up a specialist role or promotion.
For locations of our fire stations - click here.|
What salary can I expect?
The starting salary is £19,394 and rises to £25,850. On promotion to Station Manager you could expect to earn in excess of £34,000 and senior officers can earn in excess of £50,000.
Is there a pension scheme?
Yes – The Fire Service offers an excellent contributory pension scheme to provide for your retirement. Currently the rate of contribution is 11% of a firefighter's annual salary.
How much annual leave will I be entitled to?
Firefighters have 25 days' annual leave each year and after five years they get an additional three days. You will also receive a paid holiday on, or in respect of, public holidays.
Will I have to pay for my uniform?
No - You will be provided with all the items of uniform and equipment that you need, but you will be expected to keep this in good condition.
Is it a very disciplined service?
There are certain rules and regulations you will need to follow. Most of these are there for health and safety reasons to protect you, but some relate to how you behave and conduct yourself in public.
Will my disability prevent me from becoming a firefighter?
Your disability need not be a barrier to a career with the fire and rescue service. We are proud of the arrangements we have made for our disabled firefighters (
click here for more information|).
Just remember to tell us what adjustments you may need is to make for your recruitment process.
If you have any other questions about recruitment or training you can complete and
submit an online enquiry form|. Or contact Kent Fire and Rescue Service Training Centre, Loose Road, Maidstone, Kent ME16 9QB.
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