Trainee Firefighter

Based at: Doncaster Sheffield Airport

Salary details: Grade 6-8, £30,960.00 - £44,816.00 (plus 8.5% shift allowance)

Contract Type: Permanent - Full time

Hours: 42

Flexible working arrangements: Flexible working requests will be considered.

Closing date: 4th October 2026

The role is subject to relevant aviation security checks.

Doncaster Sheffield Airport is in the process of reopening, marking an exciting new chapter, and we are now looking for Apprentice Firefighters to be part of this journey. This is a unique opportunity to join the Airport Fire & Rescue Service at a pivotal time, helping to build a modern, professional, and highly capable emergency response team that will underpin the safe and resilient operation of the airport from day one. As an Apprentice Firefighter, you will train and develop to play a critical role in protecting passengers, staff, aircraft, and infrastructure, responding to a wide range of incidents while operating in a fast-paced, safety-critical aviation environment.

About the Role

Joining us as trainee firefighter is an opportunity to earn while you learn in one of the most rewarding professions. You’ll gain real experience from day one, supported by high‑quality training that builds the skills, knowledge and behaviours needed to progress in a fire and rescue career.

You will undertake the Level 3 Operational Firefighter Apprenticeship which is an excellent opportunity to gain new knowledge and skills as you work and train towards achieving competency as a firefighter.

The apprenticeship is designed by sector specialists and approved by Skills England. Each programme is built around an Apprenticeship Standard, which sets out the national requirements every apprentice must achieve.

You will combine rigorous training with practical operational duties, ensuring you develop the confidence and capability to become an firefighter.

To be eligible to apply for the apprenticeship you need to meet the following criteria:

• Be 18 or over at the time of employment.
• Have the right to work in the UK.
• Have lived in the UK or EEA for the past 3 years.
• Not already hold a qualification that duplicates the apprenticeship.
• Not be undertaking another qualification at the same time.
• Be able to apply the learning directly to your role within the Fire & Rescue Service.
• Require at least 50% new learning (determined via a Skills Scan).
• Level 2 in English and Maths and to be able to produce certification.

Other eligibly:

• Must live within South Yorkshire or 20 miles from the border
• Must be able to attend all scheduled dates of the selection process.
• Must be able to commence employment on Monday 14th December 2026.
• Must be able to attend a 12-week residential course from Monday 4th January 2026.

What We Offer

In return, you will have the opportunity to play a vital role in the successful relaunch of Doncaster Sheffield Airport and help shape the future of one of the UK's newest and most exciting airports.

We offer a competitive benefits package, including:

• Leading defined benefit pension scheme with generous employer contributions.
• 29 days annual leave (rising to 34 days after 5 years' service) plus 8 bank holidays.
• Eligibility for Shared Cost AVCs.
• Relocation package of up to £8,500.
• Broad range of family-friendly workplace policies.
• Health Cash Plan.
• Cycle to Work and Home Technology salary sacrifice schemes.
• Wide range of employee discounts and wellbeing benefits.
• Financial wellbeing support, including affordable loans.
• Free access to Occupational Health, counselling and physiotherapy services.
• Access to on-site gym facilities.
• Free on-site parking.

Please review the job summary and demonstrate in your application how you meet the required criteria.

Shortlisting will take place week commencing 5th October 2026 for further details of the selection process see the selection process document.

For further details and for completed applications please email – DSARecruitment@doncaster.gov.uk

We encourage applicants to use their own words to reflect their experience and skills and over-reliance on AI is discouraged.

The Advance Employment Team offers personalised support to help you take your next step into work. From building your CV and getting the right interview skills to accessing a wide range of free courses, the team will help you grow your skills and confidence and find a job you’ll enjoy. Get in touch by email (advanceemploymenthub@doncaster.gov.uk) or visit the Advance website (www.advancedoncaster.co.uk) to discover the support available.