20/02/2026
πMeet our newest recruits Rich and Charlie!
Rich works as the Marketing and PR Lead for Adult Community Learning.
He said: βWhen I saw the banner outside the station, it made me wonder whether I could take on the role myself. I was looking for something more active to do in my spare time, while also giving back to a community I care deeply about. And, of course, my son is obsessed with fire engines - so Iβm definitely making him very proud.β
Charlie works as a lifeguard and said becoming a firefighter has been a dream since he was a child.
He said: βI remember seeing fire engines race past and being completely fascinated by the teamwork and the sense of purpose. That ambition never really left me. As I got older, I realised it wasnβt just about the excitement, itβs about helping people on what could be the worst day of their lives. Being able to turn a childhood dream into something meaningful and serve the community at the same time is incredibly special.β
Could you be an on-call firefighter?
If you live or work within five minutes of an on-call fire station, you could be paid to help protect your local community.
Search βJoin Essex Fireβ to find out more and apply.