Academy Support Technician – Breathing Apparatus

About the job

Key information

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.

What will I be doing?

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 is in it for me?

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.

Supporting documents and information

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.

Apply on the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue website

Apply now