Firefighter

Job Description

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY:Under direct supervision from a Fire Battalion Chief and/or Fire Captain, performs general fire-fighting work in combating, extinguishing, and preventing fires; and in the maintenance of fire department equipment and quarters. Also responsible for the protection of life and property through fire-fighting activities under close supervision. Performs hazardous tasks under emergency conditions which may require strenuous exertion under such handicaps as smoke and cramped surroundings. Specific orders and directions are given by a superior officer, but the work requires a knowledge and understanding of fire-fighting methods which are gained by experience and training. A large portion of the time is spent performing routine duties, in the cleaning and caring of equipment, quarters, and firefighting/EMS apparatus, and in the study of EMS/fire-fighting techniques. Performs no supervision. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:Responds to fire alarms; lays and connects hose, holds nozzle and directs fog or water stream; raises and climbs ladders, uses chemical lines and extinguishers; uses bars, hooks, lines and other equipment. Makes forcible entry into buildings when necessary; ventilates building to drive out smoke and gasses; opens walls and other structures which impede the effective fighting of the fire. Responds to and mitigate hazardous material incidents.Assists in rescuing people from various situations; renders pre-hospital emergency care to sick and injured when needed. Performs salvage operations such as throwing salvage covers, sweeping water and removing debris. Performs general maintenance work in the upkeep of fire department property; cleans and washes walls and floors; makes minor repairs to property and equipment; washes, hangs and dries hose; washes, cleans, polishes and tests apparatus. Attends company drills and classes. Drives and operates numerous types of vehicles, equipment, tools and apparatus. Maintains an awareness of city layout and the water system.Performs pre-fire inspections. Participates in fire and life safety inspection activities and other public education activities as assigned.Performs other duties as assigned. OTHER DUTIESPlease note that this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:Graduation from high school or a General Education Development (GED) Certificate. Completion of educational requirement of Modules 1-2 of SOG 3.12 within 1 year of appointment or a specified time set forth by the fire chief.LICENSES OR CERTIFICATES:Valid Class "C" Texas Driver's License (Must obtain a valid Class "B" Texas drivers licenses with in the probation/evaluation period (12 months from date of hire).Must have current Basic Firefighter certification issued by the Texas Commission on Fire Protection Certified Firefighter within a specified time set forth by the fire chief.Must have a current Texas Department of State Health Services EMT Basic certification. Texas Department of State Health Services EMT Intermediate or EMT Paramedic certification is preferred. EMT Basics will be given the opportunity to upgrade to EMT Paramedic should the need arise. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:Knowledge of principles and practices of fire fighting; including hydraulics as related to fire fighting. Knowledge of rules and regulations of the Fire Department. Knowledge of first aid and emergency medical principles and practices. Knowledge of the geography of the city. Knowledge of mechanics and high degree of mechanical aptitude. Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions. Ability to react quickly and calmly in emergencies. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with other employees. Ability to gain knowledge of the operation and maintenance of the various types of apparatus and equipment used by the Fire Department. Ability to gain physical strength and agility sufficient to perform prolonged and hazardous work under adverse conditions. Ability to learn a wide variety of EMS/fire-fighting duties and methods within a reasonable probationary period. Ability to learn to operate relatively complex equipment.Ability to complete a semi-annual physical assessmentMust complete an annual department sponsored physical PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:Work in a highly stressful emergency environment, under intense life-threatening conditions and may necessitate considerable physical exertion. Work includes exposure to excessive heat, smoke, toxic chemicals, flood water, body fluids and noise. Physical requirements include occasional lifting/carrying of 100 poundsWorking conditions are in both indoors and outdoors with various weather conditions to include inclement weather conditions.Subject to sitting, standing, reaching, walking, twisting, climbing and kneeling to perform the essential functions. Works with the public.Working conditions include an office environment and outdoor sites to include but not limited to training, pre-planning and inspections.Must be able to pass a drug and/or alcohol screen. This class specification is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this class specification at any time without notice.