Position Summary
The Firefighter/Driver is responsible for protecting life and property through firefighting, emergency medical response, rescue operations, fire prevention activities, and operation of fire apparatus. This position performs emergency and non-emergency duties while maintaining department equipment, apparatus, facilities, and readiness standards. Employees in this position must be capable of safely operating fire apparatus and serving as a driver/operator during emergency responses.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Emergency Response
- Respond to fire alarms, medical emergencies, vehicle accidents, hazardous materials incidents, rescue operations, and other emergencies.
- Perform firefighting duties including fire suppression, ventilation, search and rescue, salvage, overhaul, and exposure protection.
- Provide emergency medical care within the scope of certification and departmental protocols.
- Assist with incident stabilization and mitigation efforts.
- Participate in mutual aid responses when requested.
Apparatus Operation
- Safely operate fire apparatus including engines, tankers, brush trucks, rescue units, and other department vehicles.
- Perform emergency and non-emergency driving in accordance with department policies and state laws.
- Position apparatus safely and effectively at emergency scenes.
- Operate pumps, aerial devices, water delivery systems, generators, and related firefighting equipment.
- Conduct daily inspections and maintenance checks on assigned apparatus.
Training & Preparedness
- Participate in scheduled drills, training programs, and continuing education.
- Maintain required certifications and professional qualifications.
- Assist with training of new personnel and probationary firefighters.
- Demonstrate proficiency in firefighting, rescue, EMS, and apparatus operation skills.
Fire Prevention & Public Education
- Participate in fire safety education programs and community outreach events.
- Assist with inspections, pre-fire planning, and fire prevention activities.
- Promote positive relationships between the department and the community.
Equipment & Facility Maintenance
- Inspect, clean, test, and maintain firefighting equipment and tools.
- Ensure apparatus, equipment, and facilities remain in a state of operational readiness.
- Report equipment deficiencies and maintenance needs.
- Perform station housekeeping and grounds maintenance duties.
Administrative Duties
- Complete incident reports, training records, inspection forms, and other required documentation.
- Attend departmental meetings and briefings.
- Follow department policies, procedures, and safety standards.
Minimum Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record.
- Kansas Firefighter I certification or ability to obtain within a specified timeframe.
- Emergency Medical Responder (EMR), EMT, or higher certification as required by department standards.
- Ability to obtain and maintain all certifications required by the department.
Preferred Qualifications
- Firefighter I and II certifications.
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification or higher.
- Driver/Operator Pumper certification.
- Hazardous Materials Operations certification.
- Previous firefighting or emergency services experience.
- Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or ability to obtain if required.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Knowledge of firefighting principles, tactics, and safety practices.
- Ability to operate fire apparatus and emergency equipment safely and effectively.
- Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions during emergencies.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to perform physically demanding work under stressful conditions.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers and the public.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to perform strenuous physical activities including lifting, carrying, dragging, climbing, crawling, and operating firefighting equipment.
- Ability to work in hazardous environments, extreme temperatures, smoke-filled conditions, and adverse weather.
- Ability to wear personal protective equipment and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).
- Ability to lift and carry equipment and patients weighing up to 100 pounds or more with assistance.
Work Environment
- Work involves exposure to emergency situations, hazardous materials, smoke, fire, bloodborne pathogens, infectious diseases, and adverse weather conditions.
- Employees may work extended hours, nights, weekends, holidays, and emergency call-back assignments.
Salary & Benefits
Salary range is dependent upon qualifications and experience. Benefits may include health insurance, retirement benefits, paid leave, uniform allowance, training opportunities, and other benefits as provided by department policy.