Qualifications improve your chances; they do not gate the job. Level 3 is the most recognised.

Typical pay: £28,000 to £42,000Level 3 most recognisedOpen entry

Pay range: National Careers Service.

Your route in

You can start without qualifications - direct entry/volunteering; a qualification improves your chances

1

Qualifications employers recognise (Level 3)

Any of these strengthens your application.

2

Where this can take you

All fire services have a programme that lets you plan and track your career development. You could work your way up to crew manager, watch manager or station manager. If you're prepared to move between services, you could become: an area manager, a brigade manager and a chief fire officer. If you're involved in fire safety and prevention work, you can take professional qualifications leading to membership of The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE). You could also get a Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) licence for driving fire engines.

Plan a different career