Firefighter

Job Description

Trainee role – NRS Dounreay is seeking dedicated, resilient and community-focused individuals to join the Dounreay Fire, Ambulance & Rescue Service (DFARS), playing a vital role in protecting a nationally significant site and supporting the wider local area. This is a unique opportunity to be part of a highly skilled, multi-disciplinary emergency response team operating across fire, rescue and ambulance services.

As a firefighter at Dounreay, you will respond to a diverse range of incidents while developing specialist skills in a supportive, high-performance environment. Successful candidates will undertake a 13-week residential training programme, followed by structured, competency-based development. Once trained you will primarily work on a day shift watch with additional call-out responsibilities, you will receive a pensionable shift allowance and the chance to build a rewarding long-term career.

What you’ll be doing

You’ll take on a varied and impactful role, responding to incidents and maintaining operational readiness while supporting both on-site and community safety initiatives.

• Respond to a wide range of incidents including fires, rescues, ambulance calls and specialist services, ensuring rapid and professional emergency response
• Deliver and support training for emergency teams, site personnel and local responders, including first aid, breathing apparatus and rope rescue
• Maintain equipment, vehicles and operational readiness through inspections, testing and adherence to DFARS procedures
• Contribute to exercises, drills and continuous improvement, ensuring preparedness for major incidents on and off-site

What you’ll bring

A successful candidate will be a committed team player who prioritises safety at all times, demonstrating the physical fitness, resilience and composure required to perform effectively in demanding, high-pressure environments. You will bring strong decision-making, communication and interpersonal skills, enabling you to adapt quickly to dynamic situations while contributing positively to team performance and operational outcomes. A proactive mindset and enthusiasm for continuous professional development are essential, with a willingness to undertake specialist training and qualifications to broaden your capabilities within the role.

• Strong team focus with a consistent commitment to maintaining personal and team safety
• Physically fit, resilient and able to perform effectively under pressure – see post specific physical capability analysis
• Eager to learn and develop, with the motivation to gain specialist skills and qualifications