Retained Firefighters - Vacancies & Talent Pool

The Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service have opened applications for On Call Retained Firefighters to join their teams across the Isle of Man.

Positions are available at Laxey, Douglas (Retained) and Castletown & Malew Fire Stations. We are also creating a talent pool for Peel, Ramsey, Kirk Michael and Rushen (Port Erin).

About the Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service

The Isle of Man Fire & Rescue Service's vision is "To be the Safest Small Island Community". Through professionalism, dedication and service to the community, we help make the Isle of Man a safe place to live, work and visit. Our mission is built around three key objectives: Preventing, Protecting and Responding, all of which support our commitment to reducing risk and keeping our communities safe.

About the role

We are looking for passionate, resilient individuals to join the Isle of Man Fire & Rescue Service as On-Call Retained Firefighters at stations across the Island.

You will work with, and within, the community to prevent emergencies occurring, minimise their impact when they do, and to respond effectively when required within a safe working environment. You will be an integral part of an operational firefighting and emergency response team, protecting people and property from fire and other hazards in the most competent and effective manner, to the highest possible standard of care and quality.

You will respond swiftly and safely to all emergency calls and requests for assistance, and deal with emergencies as directed whilst working effectively and efficiently as a member of a disciplined team.

We are looking for people with excellent teamwork skills, good communication and a commitment to providing an excellent service to the public.

Full training is provided on-Island for all successful applicants.

Successful applicants applying for positions at stations where there is a talent pool will be held on an active list for any positions that may become available in the 12 months following the interviews.

A workplace that invests in you

We will fully fund and support you through your training to become a qualified Firefighter.

Be part of a role where you are helping and supporting your local community every day.

A competitive salary that increases until you reach the salary maximum, along with additional financial benefits such as an on-call allowance and fire fee. Retained firefighters also eligible to receive an evening drill attendance fee.

Access to the Isle of Man Public Service Cycle to Work scheme after your first year of employment.

Fixed shift work patterns.

Discounted access to the NSC gym and Island swimming pools as well as 1-to-1 support programmes and exercise classes with qualified instructors.

You may be eligible for a Blue Light Card, unlocking a wide range of exclusive discounts on shopping, food and leisure activities at hundreds of popular high street and online retailers.

On-site fully equipped gym that can be used in your down-time.

Free access to the Isle of Man Government Staff Welfare Service which offers professional counselling, emotional support and signposting on a wide range of issues.

Access to the Learning, Education and Development training facility, which is exclusively for Public Service employees, to keep on top of your continuous professional development.

Free on-site car parking.

Things to note

All Retained Firefighters must live within 2 miles of, or within the town boundary of their chosen fire station. A full driving licence and access to your own vehicle are essential for this post and a uniform will be provided.

A standard Police check is required for this post, the cost of which will be covered by the Isle of Man Government.

We strongly recommend that potential applicants download the Preparation Booklet attached to this advert.

Please note a relocation package is not available for this role.

The Recruitment Process

Drop In Sessions

These sessions are an opportunity to visit your local station and speak directly with firefighters. While there are no physical elements involved, you can ask questions about the role and learn more about working for the Isle of Man Fire & Rescue Service. The Drop In Sessions will take place between 19:00 and 20:00 at the following stations on the dates listed below:

• Kirk Michael - Monday, 07 September 2026
• Laxey - Tuesday, 08 September 2026
• Ramsey - Wednesday, 09 September 2026
• Rushen - Thursday, 10 September 2026
• Peel - Wednesday, 16 September 2026
• Castletown & Malew Date and location TBC

Come and Try It Sessions

These sessions give you the chance to wear a BA set and try some of the physical elements of the recruitment process, including the bleep test. They also provide an opportunity to check your current level of fitness, giving you time to train and improve before the assessment if needed. You will also be able to find out more about other tests, such as the manual dexterity test and National Firefighter Ability Test.

The Come and Try It Sessions will be held at Douglas Fire Station on the following dates, between 18:15 and 20:00:

• Monday, 14 September 2026
• Monday, 21 September 2026 - Female-Only Session
• Thursday, 24 September 2026

National Firefighter Ability Test

If you need to sit the National Firefighter Ability Test, this will be held between 18:00-21:30 on Wednesday, 07 October 2026 (and Thursday, 08 October 2026 if required) at Douglas Fire Station. The Come and Try It Sessions can help you better understand the test and answer any questions you may have.

Physical Assessments

These will be held during the week commencing Monday, 02 November 2026 at Douglas Fire Station. If you meet the necessary criteria after applications close, you will receive an email with instructions on how to book a slot.

Aptitude Tests

These will be held on Saturday, 14 November 2026 and if required Sunday, 15 November 2026 at Douglas Fire Station.

Interview Dates

Interviews will be held in the week commencing Monday, 23 November 2026. Specific dates, times and locations will be provided to applicants who are invited to interview.

Ready to apply?

We understand that you might have some questions about the role and the Recruiting Manager is on hand to support you. You can contact Assistant Divisional Officer Halsall by calling 01624 647300 or emailing [email protected].

To get the best out of your application, read our article on the important essentials you need to know before applying.

Applications will be accepted up to midnight of the closing date specified. If you have difficulties applying online, please contact us on 01624 685000 or by email at [email protected].

Working for the Isle of Man Public Service

We are the largest employer on the Island delivering a diverse range of services to the people of the Isle of Man. We care, nurture and value our employees’ wellbeing, development and career and place great importance on rewarding the commitment by our wonderful employees.

The Isle of Man Public Service is committed to creating an inclusive culture that celebrates equality, diversity and inclusion. We understand how a wide range of views and experiences can benefit us as we work together for the Isle of Man.

Your candidate experience is important to us. As a proud member of The Circle Back Initiative, we commit to respond to every applicant that applies for an Isle of Man Public Service role.

We are committed to net zero by 2050 and as an entire nation UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, we are transforming public services for a sustainable future, and your contributions will directly benefit our community, economy, and environment.