Unit Fire Safety Manager

Job summary

The Unit Fire Safety Manager (UFSM) is a key member of the Academy Support Unit (ASU) fire safety team, responsible for supporting the Fire Safety Officer (FSO) in implementing and managing fire safety policies at the Defence Intelligence Academy (DefIntAc) and the wider Chicksands site. Reporting to the FSO, the UFSM helps ensure compliance with Defence Fire Safety Regulations and Regulatory Guidance, contributing to a safe, compliant environment that supports the Academy’s mission to deliver high-quality training and operational outputs.

Key responsibilities include assisting in managing fire safety systems, maintaining accurate records, identifying and mitigating fire risks, and providing fire safety advice to personnel across all three Armed Forces branches and the Civil Service. The UFSM also supports fire safety training, conducts inspections and audits, liaises with external authorities and contractors, and fosters a culture of fire safety awareness throughout the establishment. The role requires attendance at the Fire Prevention Safety Advisors course within three months post-probation and completion of the Level 3 NEBOSH qualification within 12 months.

The ideal candidate will have experience in fire safety, strong communication and organisational skills, proficiency in IT (Microsoft Word, Excel, Office 365), and the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a small team. A proactive approach and interest in health, safety, and fire are essential. Desirable qualifications include Level 3 NEBOSH Fire Safety, Unit Fire Safety Manager certification, and experience within a Defence or military environment, along with knowledge of relevant fire safety legislation and Defence regulations.

The role is full-time (37 hours per week) and supports the ASU’s mission to maintain high standards in all support functions. Defence Intelligence values diversity and inclusion, offering flexible working arrangements and promoting equal opportunities based on merit. Candidates will be assessed on behaviours including Managing a Quality Service, Working Together, and Delivering at Pace, with evidence of Managing a Quality Service required in the application.

In summary, the UFSM plays a vital role in safeguarding personnel, property, and operations by ensuring robust fire safety management, supporting the FSO, and contributing to the overall effectiveness and safety of the Defence Intelligence Academy and Chicksands site.

Please note this is 90% office based with some flexibility with LM approval

Job description

The Unit Fire Safety Manager is a vital member of the Academy Support Unit’s fire safety team, supporting the Fire Safety Officer in ensuring the effective management and implementation of fire safety policies and procedures across the Defence Intelligence Academy and the wider Chicksands site.

Main Responsibilities:

• Assist the Fire Safety Officer in managing fire safety systems and ensuring compliance with Defence Fire Safety Regulations and Regulatory Guidance.
• Support the maintenance of accurate fire safety records, documentation, and reporting.
• Identify, assess, and help mitigate fire safety risks, escalating issues as necessary to maintain compliance and safety.
• Provide fire safety advice and guidance to personnel across the establishment, including military and Civil Service staff.
• Work collaboratively with stakeholders from all three branches of the Armed Forces and the Civil Service to ensure fire safety requirements are met.
• Support the delivery of fire safety training and awareness initiatives.
• Conduct fire safety inspections, audits, and assurance checks as directed.
• Assist in liaising with external fire safety authorities, contractors, and regulatory bodies.
• Contribute to fostering a culture of fire safety awareness throughout the Academy.
• Provide cover and support within the fire safety team as required.
• Undertake additional tasks as directed by the Fire Safety Officer to support the ASU and DefIntAc priorities.
• Expected to attend the Fire Prevention Safety Advisors course in Moreton on Marsh within 3 months post probation and within 12 months to complete the Level 3 Nebosh.

Person specification

Essential criteria:

• Experience in fire safety matters.
• Strong communication skills, both written and oral.
• Proficient IT skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and Office 365.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a small team.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.

Desirable criteria:

• Qualifications in Fire Safety e.g. Level 3 Nebosh Fire, Unit Fire Safety Managers.
• Experience working within a Defence or military environment.
• Knowledge of Defence Fire Safety Regulations and Regulatory Guidance.
• Relevant fire safety qualifications or certifications.
• Good understanding of fire safety legislation, regulations, and best practices.

Behaviours

We'll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:

• Communicating and Influencing
• Managing a Quality Service
• Seeing the Big Picture

Benefits

Alongside your salary of £30,740, Ministry of Defence contributes £8,905 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Find out what benefits a Civil Service Pension provides (opens in a new window).

• Learning and development tailored to your role
• An environment with flexible working options
• A culture encouraging inclusion and diversity
• A Civil Service pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%

The post does not offer relocation expenses.

External recruits who join the MOD who are new to the Civil Service will be subject to a six-month probation period.

Please Note: Expenses incurred for travel to interviews will not be reimbursed.

Please be advised that the Department is conducting a review of all pay related allowances which could impact on those allowances that the post currently being advertised attracts.

Any move to MOD from another employer will mean you can no longer access childcare vouchers. This includes moves between government departments. You may however be eligible for other government schemes, including Tax-Free Childcare. Determine your eligibility at https://www.childcarechoices.gov.uk/.

The Ministry of Defence is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for its staff which includes educating them on the benefits of not smoking, protecting them from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke and supporting those who want to give up smoking. Under the Smoke-Free Working Environment policy, Smoking and the use of all tobacco products (including combustible and chewing tobacco products) will not be permitted anywhere in the Defence working environment however some exemptions are in place, please refer to local guidance. The policy is Whole Force and includes all Defence personnel, contractors, visitors and other non-MOD personnel. All applicants seeking, considering, or accepting employment with the Ministry of Defence should be aware of this policy and that it is already in place at a number of Defence Establishments.

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