IF you've ever wanted to become a firefighter, then you could be in luck as Teesside Airport has launched its recruitment for ten new starters.

With previous experience or qualifications not a requirement, the airport is building up its firefighting team as more flights make a return.

With salaries paying as much as £29,500, those successful will be responsible for responding to emergencies, medical response and first aid.

Read more: Fury over appeals process at Tyne Tunnel as driver claims it depends on 'who you get'

They will also be in charge of maintaining the readiness of equipment, fire risk assessments and audits as well as vehicle and equipment testing.

Darlington and Stockton Times: The fire station at Teesside Airport Picture: SARAH CALDECOTTThe fire station at Teesside Airport Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT

According to airport bosses, an increased number of firefighters is needed to ensure the airport is ready for the larger types of aircraft expected later this year.

It comes as The D&S Times spent the day with the crew last year as a team of around 20 staff were responsible for the whole site.

Read more: Behind the scenes with the firefighting crew at Teesside Airport

It is understood when the roles are filled, the recruits will mean the number of firefighters now at the airport will stand at 28 over three watches.

Explaining that previous experience or qualification is an advantange but not required, bosses said new recruits will undertake a training course.

Darlington and Stockton Times: The fire station at Teesside Airport Picture: SARAH CALDECOTTThe fire station at Teesside Airport Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT

The team will be headed by Dave Rowland, the Fire Service Manager who has worked at the site for 28 years.

What is it like to be an airport firefighter?

Last year, the firefighting team welcomed Amy Caldwell after a recruitment drive in March 2021. 

At the time, she described the role as "challenging," but said she could not wait to take on the daily tasks.

She said: “I’m really excited to be joining the airport crew and the team has been incredibly welcoming.

"Working on just one site, albeit a big one, is a bit of a change to working in the community, but it’s a new challenge that I can’t wait to take on.

“There are so many big things happening at Teesside International now, and it has a great future ahead of it, so I can’t think of a better time to be part of the action."

How to apply

The jobs have now gone live with a deadline to apply on January 20, 2021. 

The job description reads: "Teesside International Airport is a regional airport seeking to develop global connectivity, along with domestic and European business routes and leisure opportunities. The Airport is also focused on developing broader aviation related activities.

"We are currently looking for up to 10 energetic, self-motivated and proactive individuals to join our Fire & Rescue Service. The role of firefighter is essential to our airport’s operation, ensuring compliance and business continuity around the clock.

"This role is 42 hours per week contracted to 9 hours per shift on a rota covering the operational hours of 5.30am to 11.25pm."

To apply click here

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