Firefighter

CLASSIFICATION

TITLE:

Firefighter Recruit

Purpose of Classification
Learns during a structured training period to perform technical and specialized work functions associated with preparing for and responding to fire, rescue, and disaster emergency calls; protects life and property; supports fire safety, prevention, and equipment maintenance activities. Employees in this classification will serve an eighteen (18) month probation period.

The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.

• Enforces all County Fire codes, ordinances and state fire laws to protect life and property; complies with all rules, orders, and instructions issued by superior officers.
• Participates in Fire and Emergency Medical Training Programs to develop and maintain competency and proficiency in Fire Suppression and Prevention Procedures and Techniques, basic first aid, and lifesaving techniques; participates in drills, simulation scenarios, and on-the-job activities.
• Studies metro area and County geography to learn the location of streets and addresses, hydrants, standpipes, and physical features within a district.
• Responds to emergency calls involving fires, hazardous materials, and vehicle accidents with a company; evaluates the scene, may direct traffic and control crowds.
• Provides control of fire situations including suppression, extinguishment, forcible entry, ventilation, search and rescue of victims, salvage, and overhaul.
• Assists with fire cause determination; recognizes and preserves evidence of arson.
• Selects and operates fire service tools and equipment including hoses, nozzles, appliances, and components of sprinkler and standpipe systems.
• Locates water sources; lays and connects hose, acts as nozzle or backup person in directing water streams, uses chemical extinguishers, and raises and climbs ladders.
• Identifies dangerous building conditions, electrical emergencies, hazardous materials, and ancillary health hazards; applies appropriate precautions and procedures; informs and/or evacuates individuals and implements medical protocols.
• Provides rehydration and first aid support during fire ground activities; may provide emergency medical care as a first responder including basic first aid, basic life support, airway management, and other treatments.
• Performs various rescue operations such as extrication of individuals from structures, trenches, machinery, or vehicles, water rescues, searches for drowning victims, high-angle rescues requiring rappelling, and animal rescue.
• Implements emergency techniques when trapped or disoriented; assists fellow firefighters; maintains and wears protective clothing and self‑contained breathing apparatus.
• Inspects commercial and residential properties for fire hazards and violations; advises owners on rectifying hazardous conditions; may participate in drills in hospitals, schools, and other high‑risk structures.
• Communicates effectively over radio channels while initiating and responding to radio communications; performs regular radio tests.
• Prepares, inspects, inventories, repairs, and maintains fire equipment, apparatus, hoses, tools, materials, turnout gear, first aid equipment, and vehicles; performs post‑fire cleanup and equipment testing.
• Establishes and maintains positive public relations; attends community meetings; promotes fire safety; responds to public inquiries.
• Communicates with supervisors, employees, other departments, and individuals to coordinate work, review status, exchange information, or resolve problems.
• Maintains current field and code manuals, policies and procedures, employee handbooks, and related materials; maintains knowledge of rope rescue equipment and techniques.
• Attends shift meetings, seminars, drills, and training to maintain knowledge of operations, improve performance, and stay current with medical and rescue techniques.
• Completes and prepares forms, logs, records, reports, and correspondence; maintains administrative…