Fire Safety Advisor/Inspector – East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service Joint Headquarters

Fire Safety Advisor/Inspector (Non-Operational)

East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service (ESFRS) is seeking motivated individuals to join the Risk Reduction (Protection) Department within the Fire Safety Team. These are non-operational (Green Book) roles responsible for delivering fire safety regulation, advice, education and enforcement on behalf of the East Sussex Fire & Rescue Authority.

Successful applicants will join a recruitment pool and may be appointed to current vacancies or contacted regarding future opportunities. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the Service’s statutory duties, support community safety and help businesses and building owners meet their fire safety responsibilities.

As a Fire Safety Advisor/Inspector, you will undertake a range of activities appropriate to your qualifications and competency level in line with the National Competency Framework for Fire Safety Regulators. This may include undertaking non-regulatory visits, conducting short, remote or full fire safety audits as part of our Risk Based Inspection Programme, providing advice and guidance to duty holders and, where appropriate, taking formal enforcement action.

The role also includes reviewing building consultations and licensing applications, responding to complaints, liaising with stakeholders and preparing reports and documentation associated with fire safety regulation and enforcement.

Once qualified to Level 4 Diploma standard, you may support the Building Safety Regulator through advice, inspections and partnership working linked to the Building Safety Act 2022. Travel across the South East region may occasionally be required. Service vehicles are available where appropriate, or mileage can be claimed for use of a private vehicle.

Applications are welcomed from candidates who meet the essential criteria detailed in the Job Description. Salary is linked to qualifications and competency level:

• Job Family 1 (Unqualified): £28,146 per annum
• Job Family 3 (Level 3 Certificate or equivalent): £35,413 per annum
• Job Family 4 (Level 4 Diploma): £39,317 per annum
• Job Family 5 (ESFRS Signatory Status): up to £46,851.77 per annum

Your base location may be at one of our Protection Hubs in Hove, Eastbourne or Hastings, or within specialist teams including Building Safety Regulation, Primary Authority Partnerships, or Legal & Compliance.

All successful applicants must maintain a minimum of 20 hours Continuing Professional Development annually. From Job Family 4 onwards, an optional 10% Flexible Working Allowance is available in return for supporting evening and weekend coverage through adjusted working patterns.

ESFRS supports hybrid and flexible working arrangements, subject to operational requirements. To support development and resilience, inspectors may occasionally rotate between teams with suitable notice.

Strong communication skills, a commitment to learning and a customer-focused approach are essential. A full UK driving licence is required.