Fire Fighter

Firefighter

Under direct supervision, 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 firefighting activities with and without 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 firefighting methods which is gained by experience and training. A large portion of the time is spent in routine house duties, in the cleaning and care of equipment, quarters, fire apparatus, and in the study of firefighting techniques.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Performs duties and skills necessary for effective structural, industrial, EMS, wildland, vehicle accident, Hazardous Materials (HazMat) operations.
• Maintains proficiency in skills and education related to firefighting, EMS, rescue, and hazardous materials.
• Cleans, inspects, and maintains fire stations, fire apparatus, and equipment.
• Participates in drills and training. Assists with drills and training and provides instruction, as needed.
• Stays familiar with and abides by all ESD policies, procedures, and directives.
• Maintains physical fitness condition to meet minimum job requirements.
• Occasionally works as an acting driver under the supervision of a company officer.
• Operate a computer utilizing various software packages and electronic mail.
• All other duties as assigned for the successful execution and/or completion of various projects whether or not specifically assigned.

Qualifications and Education Requirements:

• The candidate must be certified by TCFP as Basic Structural Firefighter and DSHS as EMT-Basic. Candidate must have a current driver’s license.
• Preferred Qualifications and Education: The candidate is preferred to have previous ESD, county, or municipal firefighting experience and be certified by DSHS or NREMT as EMT-Advanced or Paramedic.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Principles and practices of fire prevention and suppression.
• Uses and maintenance of firefighting equipment and apparatus.
• Knowledge of first aid and resuscitation principles and practices.
• React quickly and calmly in emergencies.
• Learn to operate relatively complex equipment.
• Establishes and maintains effective working/living relationship with the public and other employees.
• Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to gain physical strength and agility sufficient to perform prolonged and hazardous work under adverse conditions.

Mental Demands:

• While performing the duties of this job, employees are regularly required to be able to analyze, organize, summarize and articulate complex legal and financial information; have good command of the English language and be able to proofread work; be able to read and interpret agreements, then implement the relevant provisions of these agreements; be detailed, organized and communicative; be a responsive team player with ability to quickly prioritize among numerous pressing tasks; be task and goal oriented and capable of functioning in a business setting; analyze and solve non-routine and complex financial problems; use math and mathematical reasoning; and work under intensive deadlines with frequent interruptions.
• Employees working in this position are also frequently required to function well in emergency incident settings, making proper judgment calls, based sound risk/benefit assessments and resource allocation. Must be able to work in frequent stressful environments with minimal supervision.

Work Environment:

• The work is typically performed at a station house except while at a fire or emergency scene. At a fire scene, the employee may be exposed to EXTREME noise, dust, dirt, irritating chemicals, inclement weather, extreme temperatures, and hazardous situations. The work requires the use of protective clothing and devices.