Wildfire Capability Officer (National Resilience)

Merseyfire; Liverpool; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A fire and rescue service in the United Kingdom seeks a Wildfire Capability Officer to support national resilience efforts and provide operational cover during incidents. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in fire service operations and a strong understanding of wildfire risks. This role includes coordinating training and leading strategic development for wildfire resilience. The position entails 42 hours per week with national travel requirements and offers a competitive salary plus flexible duty allowance. Closing date for applications is January 11, 2026.

Qualifications

• Experience in Fire and Rescue Service operations and incident resolution.
• Strong understanding of wildfire risks and operational challenges in the UK.
• Proven ability to manage projects, produce reports, and work to deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work in multi-agency environments.
• A positive, adaptable approach and commitment to continuous professional development.

Responsibilities

• Support the delivery of objectives agreed between MHCLG and the Lead Authority.
• Provide operational cover and tactical support for national incidents.
• Act as a subject matter expert on wildfire capability.
• Coordinate assurance processes and support training across Fire and Rescue Services.
• Lead user subgroups in tactical/strategic development of wildfire resilience.

Skills

Fire and Rescue Service operations

Incident resolution

Communication skills

Project management

Understanding of wildfire risks

Job description

About The Role

To support delivery of the agreement between the National Resilience Lead Authority and Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) to develop a pilot to test the need for a National Resilience Wildfire Capability.

To provide operational cover for the National Resilience team as directed and in accordance with the Lead Authority rota system.

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced individual to join our National Resilience team as a Wildfire Capability Officer.

As part of this role, you will:

• Support the delivery of objectives agreed between MHCLG and the Lead Authority.
• Provide operational cover and tactical support for national incidents under the National Coordination Advisory Framework (NCAF).
• Act as a subject matter expert on wildfire capability, offering advice and guidance to stakeholders.
• Coordinate assurance processes and support training and exercises across Fire and Rescue Services.
• Lead user subgroups and contribute to tactical / strategic development of Wildfire resilience capabilities.

What We’re Looking For

You will bring:

• Experience in Fire and Rescue Service operations and incident resolution.
• Strong understanding of wildfire risks and operational challenges in the UK.
• Proven ability to manage projects, produce reports, and work to deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work in multi‑agency environments.
• A positive, adaptable approach and commitment to continuous professional development.

Salary: Station Manager B (plus flexible duty allowance)
Location: Agreed base with national travel requirements
Hours: 42 hours per week plus operational cover

6 Month Secondment

Closing date: Midnight, Sunday 11th January 2026

Interviews: W/c 19th January 2026

About Us

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service (MFRS) is at the forefront of public safety and emergency response, serving the vibrant communities of Merseyside with dedication and professionalism. Our mission is to protect, prevent, and respond—ensuring the safety and well-being of the public, both in times of crisis and through proactive community engagement.

With a proud history and a strong sense of purpose, we operate across a diverse region that includes bustling urban centres, industrial hubs, and serene rural areas. Our highly skilled and committed teams work tirelessly to provide fire and rescue services, enforce fire safety regulations, and deliver critical prevention and education programmes.