Water Officer (12 month fixed term contract)
Salary: Grade 4: £13,479 - £15,287 (FTE £33,699 - £38,220) per annum
Hours : 14.8 hours per week
Location : Service Headquarters, Calcot, Reading, with the ability to work remotely as required
Benefits: Excellent annual leave allowance of 28 days (pro rata), flexible working, onsite gym, parking facilities and a Local Government Pension Scheme are available
Other information about our benefits can be found here
About the role:
This is a fantastic opportunity to join Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) in a key operational support role. As Water Officer, you will play a vital part in ensuring effective water supply for firefighting across the county.
This fixed-term post (12 months) offers flexible working arrangements and the chance to contribute to a critical public safety function. You will oversee hydrant inspections, coordinate repairs, maintain accurate data using SC-Capture, and liaise with water companies, local authorities, and internal teams. The role also includes representing RBFRS at regional and national water forums and supporting the Hydrant Inspector with administrative and operational tasks.
Importantly, this Water Officer will help guide the implementation of new practices that align RBFRS more closely with neighbouring fire and rescue services. The fixed-term nature of the post reflects the need for dedicated oversight during this period of transition and improvement
About you:
We are seeking a motivated and organised individual with a solutions-focused approach. You enjoy working independently and collaboratively, and you’re confident communicating with a range of stakeholders.
Specifically, you’ll bring:
Experience in utilities, fire hydrant management, or a related field
Strong IT skills (Microsoft Office; SC-Capture training will be provided)
Knowledge of hydrant inspection and repair processes
Ability to interpret technical plans and assess water schemes
Knowledge and experience of managing hydrant maintenance budgets
The key focus of this role (Key Responsibilities and Deliverables) is:
Manage and monitor hydrant inspections, testing, and repairs
Maintain accurate hydrant data and provide timely reports
Liaise with water companies and authorities to resolve hydrant issues
Represent RBFRS at water-related meetings and forums
Support the Hydrant Inspector and provide basic administrative assistance
Raise purchase orders and maintain budget logs for hydrant repairs
Key role requirements (knowledge, skills and experience):
GCSEs (or equivalent) in English and Maths (Grade C/4 or above)
Technical knowledge of hydrant systems and water supply planning
Experience managing data and using IT systems
Ability to work independently and manage competing priorities
Understanding of health and safety and data protection requirements
A current EU driving licence and willingness to travel across Berkshire
Application and selection process
The successful candidate will demonstrate and promote behaviours in line with the Job Profile/Person Specification and our Behaviour Competency Framework as attached.
The Behavioural Competency Framework allows us to easily identify the behaviours that drive successful performance and enables us to deliver an effective service. The behaviours detailed within the job profile will be assessed throughout the selection process.
If you are interested in applying for this position, click Apply Now.
Please see the link to the Job Profile/Person Specification.
Appointment is conditional upon undertaking a Standard Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check,
Rechecks will be required in line with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and Recruitment of Ex-Offenders Policy.
For further details about the role please contact Matt Weldon Watch Manager Operational Learning and Assurance at (url removed) to arrange an informal discussion.
If you have any queries about the application process or to discuss any adaptations or adjustments, we can make to assist you in your application or with our promotion process please contact Chloe Wenn at (url removed) or by phone (phone number removed) for an informal discussion.
Please note we do not accept applications via Agencies or CV’s without an accompanying application form.
Closing date for applications is 12:00 hours Friday 21st November 2025
It is anticipated that the assessment/interview process will run week commencing Monday 24th November 2025.
Anticipated start date: Week Commencing Monday 8th December
Please note that is your personal responsibility to check whether by applying / accepting this position it would result in any Annual Allowance implications. A breach in the Annual Allowance threshold could result in a Tax charge.
Please view our privacy notice via this link Applicant Privacy Statement
Our Commitments:
Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service values your individuality, your diversity and your dignity. All are welcome here. Inclusion, diversity and equality are principles which guide our decisions and will be visible throughout the Service, and we will continually work to improve in these areas.
We are committed to creating an inclusive culture of dignity and trust where everyone feels safe and comfortable to bring their whole self to work.
Simply: The communities we serve are varied and diverse, we should be too.
Applications are welcome for job-share or part time arrangements please enquire on application.
All applications are considered on merit alone. We are a Disability Confident Leader – if you meet the essential criteria of the role, you will be guaranteed an interview if you choose to opt into the Offer of an Interview Scheme (formerly known as the Guaranteed Interview Scheme).
To find out more: Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and all employees must share this commitment.
Please view our Safer Recruitment Statement via this link