Expression of Interest: Watch Commander B

Expression of Interest: Watch Commander B

Details

  • Reference: SCC/TP/377198/2899
  • Positions: 1
  • Salary: WC B plus 10%
  • Category: Fire and Rescue
  • Contract type: Secondment
  • Working hours: 42 hours per week
  • Posted on: 31 March 2025
  • Closing date: 4 April 2025
  • Directorate: Chief Executive Office
  • Location: Woodhatch Place, 11 Cockshot Hill, Reigate

Description

Expression of Interest; (Internal applicants only)

Watch Commander B

Department: Response
Location: Across Surrey
Grade/Rank: Watch Commander
Reporting to: Station Commander
Contract Type: Full-time
Salary: Competitive, aligned with rank and experience


Make Surrey Safer – Lead with Purpose

At Surrey Fire and Rescue Service, our Watch Commanders are more than operational leaders – they are mentors, problem-solvers, and ambassadors for safety in the communities we serve. This is your opportunity to step into a pivotal role that blends operational command, people management, community engagement, and continuous development.


About the Role

As a Watch Commander, you will:

  • Lead operational crews to resolve incidents safely, effectively, and confidently.

  • Provide clear direction, mentoring, and support to station staff aligned with the station plan.

  • Deliver and champion community safety programmes.

  • Take the lead in maintaining operational readiness and resource availability.

  • Actively manage staff performance, address development needs, and uphold high standards.

  • Play a key role in delivering strategic priorities, maintaining public trust, and ensuring safety for all.

You may be deployed across Surrey to support operational response, training, community safety or resilience as required.


What We're Looking For

We're seeking a confident and adaptable leader who can inspire others, embrace change, and act decisively in high-pressure situations.

You must be:

  • Competent in the Wholetime Watch Commander role

  • A qualified holder of:

    • IOSH Supervising Safely

    • ICS Level 1 (or equivalent)

    • IFE Level 3 Certificate (or equivalent)

    • ILM Level 3 (or equivalent)

You'll bring:

  • Proven experience of leading diverse teams through change and challenge

  • Strong understanding of Fire Service operations, National Operational Guidance (NOG), and Health & Safety legislation

  • Excellent communication, people management, and decision-making skills

  • A proactive, respectful, and inclusive approach to leadership

  • Strong IT literacy and administrative capability


Additional Opportunities Within the Role

You may also contribute to one or more specialist areas:

  • Training Centre or Operational Development – shaping knowledge and delivery across fire safety

  • Business Safety or Community Safety – supporting initiatives and serving as an Inspection Officer or Primary Authority Scheme Officer

  • Operational Resilience or Assurance – supporting policy, procedures, risk, and response capability


Why Join Us?

Surrey Fire and Rescue Service is committed to:

  • Investing in your continuous professional development

  • Promoting a safe and inclusive culture where everyone thrives

  • Encouraging innovation and supporting your leadership journey

  • Making a real difference to the lives of people in our communities


Ready to Apply?

If you're an experienced and motivated Watch Commander ready to lead, inspire, and drive excellence, we want to hear from you.

Application Deadline: 04/04/2025 at 23:59


We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and are committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace.

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