Communications and Engagement Assistant (Apprentice)

Dsfire; Exeter; On-site; GBP 26,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading fire and rescue service as a Communications and Engagement Apprentice in Exeter. This apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity to learn while supporting vital communication efforts and digital marketing campaigns. With a structured training program and a competitive salary, you’ll develop key skills as part of a dedicated team committed to public service in Devon and Somerset.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Generous pension scheme

Ample annual leave

Family leave policies

Physiotherapy and wellness services

Opportunities for professional development

Free gym access and fitness coaching

Eye care and mental health support

Cycle-to-work scheme

Support from the Firefighters Charity

Qualifications

• Knowledge of communications, digital marketing, and social media is essential.
• Level 3 qualification and strong GCSEs in English and Maths required.
• Ability to learn quickly and good customer relationship skills needed.

Responsibilities

• Creating engaging content for digital channels.
• Supporting campaign activities and planning.
• Assisting with event planning and analyzing engagement activities.

Skills

Knowledge of communications

Digital marketing

Social media

Good customer relationship skills

Digital skills

Education

Level 3 qualification (A Levels, BTEC, or equivalent)

Grade C/5 or above in GCSE English and Maths

Job description

Communications and Engagement Assistant (Apprentice)

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service has a fantastic opportunity for a Communications and Engagement Apprentice to join our team in Exeter.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue is the largest non-metropolitan fire and rescue service in England. We provide prevention, protection, and response services across the counties of Devon and Somerset.

This opportunity is available on an 18-month fixed-term contract working 37 hours a week (including release to attend Exeter College). We are offering a competitive salary starting at £25,992.00 (gross) per annum.

While undertaking this role, the successful candidate will complete a Multi-Channel Marketer Apprenticeship and need to be available to start with us by September 2025 to begin the relevant course and training.

About us:

At Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, our mission is to create a safer world by preventing fire and rescue emergencies. We pride ourselves on our reputation, built on the dedication and expertise of our skilled workforce. By joining us, you will play a key role in enhancing our services across Devon and Somerset.

Your role:

As our Communications and Engagement Assistant (Apprentice), you will work across three areas: communications, consultation and engagement, and digital content.

You will support the team’s daily activities, help plan, deliver, and evaluate campaigns, create content for various audiences and channels, and support engagement activities.

This role offers variety and scope to make a difference and learn new skills.

Find out more:

Key responsibilities include:

• Creating engaging content for the Service’s digital channels.
• Writing, editing, and publishing content across channels.
• Developing communication and digital marketing campaigns, including planning, delivery, and evaluation.
• Supporting communication campaign activities.
• Assisting with planning, conducting, and analyzing consultation and engagement activities internally and externally.
• Supporting event planning for events like staff awards and the Blue Light Carol Service.
• Collaborating with team members to maximize activity effectiveness.
• Writing, editing, and publishing press releases and monitoring media coverage.
• Monitoring campaigns and preparing evaluation reports, including monthly KPIs.
• Maintaining high standards of customer service and professionalism.
• Ensuring confidentiality and security of information in compliance with legislation.
• Attending meetings or events at local, regional, or national levels as needed.

Qualifications and skills we're looking for:

• Level 3 qualification (A Levels, BTEC, or equivalent) and grade C/5 or above in GCSE English and Maths.
• Knowledge of communications, digital marketing, and social media.
• Digital skills to use various applications and tools.
• Good customer relationship skills.
• Ability to learn quickly.
• Willingness to travel within Devon and Somerset, and occasionally outside the counties.

What we offer:

Joining Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service means making a tangible difference daily. We also offer an extensive benefits package, including:

• Flexible working arrangements
• A generous pension scheme
• Ample annual leave
• Family leave policies
• Physiotherapy and wellness services
• Opportunities for professional development
• Free gym access and fitness coaching
• Eye care and mental health support
• Support from the Firefighters Charity
• Cycle-to-work scheme

How to apply:

If you have the skills and experience needed, click ‘apply’ today. We look forward to hearing from you.

Closing date: 23:59, 15 June 2025

For questions or an informal discussion, contact Rachel Barnard, Communications Lead, at 07971 577387 or [e-mail].

You will need to complete an application form and submit evidence demonstrating how you meet the criteria from the Job Description and Person Specification.

• Excellent at creating clear, compelling communications.
• Knowledge of digital marketing and social media.
• Digital skills with various applications and tools.
• Good customer relationship skills.
• Level 3 qualification (A Levels, BTEC, or equivalent) and grade C/5 or above in GCSE English and Maths.

Download and complete the attached document “Essential Criteria for my Communications Apprentice Application” to provide evidence for your application. Upload this document when submitting your application.

Note: Evidence submitted will be used to shortlist applications.

Our values:

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, adhering to our Safeguarding Policy.

We require all applicants to disclose criminal convictions, including spent and unspent, cautions, and reprimands, as per the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order.

We value diversity and encourage candidates from all backgrounds who share our values to apply.

Job number: PS00786

Internal/external: External

Job type: Support

Location: Exeter Clyst St George

Contract: Fixed-term

Hours: 37

Application deadline: 30 May 2025