Academy Support Technician - Breathing Apparatus

Summary

Location: Exeter Hub, Training Academy, Exeter Airport

Salary: £27,709 rising annually to £29,542

Contract: Permanent, Full time (37 hours per week).

This post is being re-advertised. Following a review of role requirements, possession of a valid LGV Licence is now considered desirable rather than essential. We encourage anyone who may not have applied previously because they did not hold an LGV Licence to submit an application.  Previous applicants are also welcome to re-apply. 

We will be using the results from this recruitment process to fill any other vacancies for this role that may arise within the next 6 months. 

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.

Find out more:

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 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 Date: 2359hrs 22 September 2026

Should you have any questions regarding the role, please contact the hiring manager Tom Statton via View email address on dsfire.gov.uk, or tel: Show phone number

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. 

1. Proven ability to work on own initiative and as a member of a busy team. 
2. Good written and oral communication skills.
3. Proven ability to carry out small DIY jobs.
4. Proven ability to adapt to changing circumstances and act proactively.
5. Experience with equipment inventory
6. 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. 

Our values

We are committed to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and all employees must share this commitment and adhere to the Services' Safeguarding policy. 

Fire and Rescue Authority roles are listed in Schedule 1 of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order and as such it s our policy to require all applicants to disclose any criminal convictions (both spent and unspent) including driving offences, cautions and reprimands. 

This role will require a Standard DBS check to be completed. 

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Authority are committed to the rehabilitation of offenders, as such any positive disclosures will incorporate a reasonable and proportionate response. 

As a Service and as individuals:

• We are proud to help. 
• We are honest. 
• We are respectful. 
• We are working together. 

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service recognise and celebrate the vast diversity of the local communities that we serve, and we aspire for this to be reflected in our workforce. We encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds, experiences and beliefs, who share our values to consider working for us.