Volunteer Fire

Fire Department Paid‑On‑Call Firefighter City of Independence, Iowa | Fire Department Job Posting Title: Fire Department Paid‑On‑Call Firefighter Position Overview Department: Fire Reports To: Fire Chief Status: Paid‑On‑Call FLSA Status: Non‑Exempt Appointments: At‑Will (unless covered under bargaining unit contract) Salary Range: $1.00 To $1.00 Annually The Role Paid‑On‑Call Firefighters perform fire suppression, emergency response, and lifesaving activities under general supervision. Responsibilities include operating fire apparatus and equipment, participating in rescue operations, performing maintenance on department tools and property, and assisting with fire inspections. This role requires good judgment, the ability to respond under pressure, and a commitment to training and safety. Key Duties and Responsibilities Operate fire trucks, firefighting equipment, and hydraulic ladders. Perform salvage operations, including laying covers, sweeping/pumping water, and debris removal. Learn and perform first aid, CPR, and basic life support at emergency scenes. Conduct general maintenance, adjustments, and minor repairs to apparatus; report major defects. Wash, clean, dry, and test hoses, apparatus, and equipment. Perform assigned fire inspections and check structures for compliance with fire ordinances. As needed, temporarily assume responsibility for equipment and crew when relieving a company officer. Carry out additional fire department duties as required by the Fire Chief. Qualifications & Requirements Knowledge & Skills Knowledge of fire prevention, suppression, department administration, and firefighting equipment. Ability to perform CPR, first aid, basic life support, and apply modern fire suppression techniques. Ability to evaluate emergency situations and make sound decisions. Ability to lead, train, direct, or support firefighting personnel when needed. Ability to maintain accurate records, communicate effectively, and interact with the public under stress. Ability to understand ordinances, state and federal regulations, and technical fire safety information. Education & Experience High School Diploma or equivalent. Iowa Firefighter I Certification, or ability to obtain within one year of appointment. One year of related work experience or equivalent combination of education and training. Licensing & Certifications Valid State of Iowa Driver’s License. Firefighter I Certification (or ability to obtain within one year). Must maintain NIMS, First Aid, and CPR certifications throughout employment. Physical Requirements Ability to lift up to 100 lbs. (equipment such as rescue tool power units, generators). Ability to carry 25–50 lbs. (hoses, SCBAs, ladders). Ability to climb ladders, work at heights, operate equipment, and work in extreme environments (heat, cold, fumes, smoke). Must wear required personal protective equipment, including turnout gear and SCBA. Residency Requirement Must reside within one mile of the Independence, Washington, and Sumner Fire Districts. Availability Must be generally available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, for emergency response. Work Environment This position involves both indoor and outdoor work, including hazardous conditions inherent to firefighting. Exposure to extreme temperatures, smoke, fumes, chemicals, confined spaces, loud noise, and dangerous situations is common. The position is designated as safety‑sensitive due to emergency response and equipment operation responsibilities. Why Join Us? Serve your community in a meaningful, mission‑driven role. Gain firefighting experience, training, and skill development. Work alongside a dedicated team committed to protecting public safety. Make a direct impact during emergencies and in community fire prevention efforts. Equal Opportunity Employer The City of Independence is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities. #J-18808-Ljbffr City-of-Independence