Water Officer (Redeployment 22146)

• Suffolk County Council
• Address: Endeavour House Ipswich IP1 2BX (orother locations for work include Ipswich Lowestoft and Bury St Edmunds - Hybrid
• Salary: 34434per annum (pro rata if part time)
• Hours: 37 flexible working options available
• Contract: Permanent

Were passionate about improving the future for our customers our communities and the environment. If you are too join us as a Water Officer in our Protection Team within Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service and make a huge and meaningful impact. Your innovation and drive will help us to continue improving and evolving. Our opportunities and support will enable you to make a difference and leave a positive lasting legacy.

Reimagine the possibilities.

Your role and responsibilities

As our Water Officer youll play a vital part in ensuring Suffolk has the water infrastructure needed for effective firefighting. Every day youll work closely with planners developers water companies and our own hydrant inspection teams to help keep communities safe. Your tasks include but not limited to:

• Act as the single point of contact for developers and planners regarding water supply requirements for new developments.
• Review and respond to planning applications ensuring new infrastructure supports firefighting needs.
• Lead and support the team of hydrant inspectors helping to maintain and improve Suffolks hydrant network.
• Produce and oversee Suffolk Fire and Rescue Services hydrant maintenance programme.
• Liaise with water undertakers to coordinate repairs installations inspections and water supply arrangements.
• Ensure legislation such as the Fire Service Act 2004 Water Act 1960 and Town and Country Planning Act is applied correctly.
• Oversee departmental budgets and contribute to business planning and strategic development.
• Represent the Service in key internal and external forums such as S106 working groups and NFCC national meetings.
• Your work will directly contribute to ensuring firefighters always have access to the water they need when they need it.

You will need

• A Level 4 qualification in Business Management (or equivalent experience).
• Strong organisational skills to manage consultations data and operational programmes.
• The ability to lead and support a team providing clear guidance and direction.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to tailor technical information for different audiences.
• Confidence in managing relationships with external partners negotiating positive outcomes and resolving complaints constructively.
• Knowledge of the legislation relating to water for firefighting and planning frameworks.
• The ability to prepare reports risk assessments and present information to stakeholders.

Wed also love it if you have:

• Project management experience
• NEBOSH certificate (desirable)

You can view a full list of requirements in theJob and Person Profile (Word).If you believe you can succeed in this role apply. Even if you dont meet all requirements still apply. We would appreciate the opportunity to consider your application.

The team

Youll join a supportive and dedicated team within the Protection function of Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service. Working alongside inspecting officers technical specialists and planning partners we take pride in ensuring the safety of communities across Suffolk.

We work collaboratively share ideas and support each other to deliver the best outcomes for the county. Our work matters and youll see the direct impact of everything you do.

Hybrid working is supported and office days are typically based at Endeavour House. Other locations for work also included Ipswich Lowestoft and Bury St Edmunds.

Empowering Everyone

Were big believers in potential possibility and the power of different ideas. Were always searching for ways to encourage respect and enable everyone to be the best they can be. We want to represent the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all individuals especially those from groups that are currently underrepresented in the organisation as shown in our Workforce Equality Report.

For more information

Please contact Station Manager Ann Hurstfor a casual conversation. You can reach them by calling or emailing .

How to apply

Step 1 -Read the Job and Person Profile (Word).

Step 2 -Click Apply Now to start your online application.

Step 3 - Complete the Supporting Statement template (up to 500 words) providing evidence of your ability to meet the criteria. Examples can be drawn from all aspects of your work and life experience.

Step 4 - Upload your supporting statement and CV (without personal details). Applications without both documents will not be progressed.

We value authentic applications that showcase your genuine skills and experiences. Applications suspected of being generated by AI may be rejected. We encourage you to present your own work and ideas throughout the application process.

Do you need any reasonable adjustments to help you to applyIf you are disabled and/or haveadditionalsupport needs you can request reasonable adjustments. You can do this by contacting our Recruitment Team ator.

You can find examples ofpossible adjustmentsonourReasonable Adjustment pages. Ifyoureinvited to the next stageyoullhave another chance to request adjustments.

Closing date:11.30pm12 February 2026.

This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts. #LI-Hybrid