Location: Exeter Hub, Training Academy, Exeter Airport
Salary: £26,824 rising annually to £28,598
Contract: Permanent, Full time (37 hours per week).
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service is looking for an Academy Support Technician – Breathing Apparatus to join our Training Academy team based at Exeter Airport.
As the largest non-metropolitan Fire and Rescue Service in England, we are dedicated to creating safer communities through prevention, protection and emergency response. This is an opportunity to play an important role, ensuring our Firefighters have the equipment, facilities and support they need to train safely and effectively.
About the role:
Working as part of a supportive team, you will provide practical and logistical support for Breathing Apparatus training, helping to prepare realistic training exercises and ensuring equipment, vehicles and facilities are maintained to the highest standards.
Key responsibilities:
In this varied role, you will:
Prepare training equipment, scenarios and facilities for operational training exercises,
Support the safe delivery of training and restore equipment and facilities after use.
Inspect, test, maintain and record servicing of training equipment and Academy vehicles.
Drive Service vehicles, including LGV’s and trailers to transport training equipment and resources.
Maintain training equipment inventories and ensure resources are available when needed.
Carry out routine maintenance of Academy Buildings, grounds and training facilities including Fire Safety systems.
Assist with site security, including locking buildings, and facilities when required.
Support colleagues by covering technician duties during periods of absence.
Coach and support new or temporary members of the team where appropriate.
Use ICT systems, including MiQuest, Outlook and Resource Guru.
Work collaboratively with colleagues, contractors and external partners.
Promote safe working practices and comply with Health and Safety, Equality, Diversity and all Service policies.
What we offer:
We value our people and offer an extensive benefits package, including:
Flexible working arrangements to promote work-life balance
A generous pension scheme for your future.
Ample annual leave to recharge and refresh.
Family leave policies that support your loved ones.
Access to physiotherapy services for your wellbeing.
Opportunities for professional development and progression.
Free gym access and personalised fitness coaching.
Support for eye care and wellness programs.
Blue Light Membership and discounts.
Affordable healthcare options through Benenden Health.
Engaging sports and social groups for community building.
Confidential counselling services and mental health support.
Access to Firefighters Charity for additional support.
A cycle to work scheme to promote healthy commuting.
Join us:
If you are practical, organised and looking for a rewarding role supporting the training of our operational colleagues, we’d love to hear from you.
Closing Dare: 2359hrs 11 August 2026
Should you have any questions regarding the role, please contact the hiring manager Tom Statton via tstatton@dsfire.gov.uk, or tel: 07732 893029
If you feel you have the skills and experience to become our Academy Support Technician please click ‘apply’ today, we would love to hear from you.
The successful candidate must, by the commencement of employment, have the right to work in the UK.
How to apply:
You will be required to complete an application form and submit a document detailing how you meet the following essential criteria taken from the Job Description and Person Specification.
Proven ability to work on own initiative and as a member of a busy team.
Good written and oral communication skills.
Proven ability to carry out small DIY jobs.
Proven ability to adapt to changing circumstances and act proactively.
Experience with equipment inventory
Proven ability to undertake technical maintenance work and small tool servicing.
To help you complete this part of the application form please find attached below the word document “Essential Criteria for my Academy Support Technician – BA Application” for you to download and complete with your evidence for the above criteria. You can then upload this document where requested when completing your application.
Please note the evidence that you upload to your application should not exceed 2000 words in total (excluding titles).
Evidence submitted in relation to the essential criteria above will be used to shortlist any applications received.