FIREFIGHTER

position details

position number:
county: sebanstian
posting end date: january 15, 2026
anticipated starting salary: $47,397.00
fort smith-188th ebbing

the mission of the department of military is to provide a professional staff of arkansas state employees who help maintain and improve the readiness of arkansas national guard units through effective fiscal management of state resources, human resource management, and quality administration of arkansas national guard programs.

the department of the military is a drug‑free workplace, this includes medical marijuana which is still considered a controlled substance under federal law (drug‑free workplace act of 1988).

job series: safety and security – firefighters
classification: firefighter i
class code: sfi
02p
pay grade: sgs
05
salary range: $47,397 – $70,148

the firefighter i supports the firefighting team by performing essential tasks that help maintain operational readiness and enhance emergency response effectiveness. Working under the close supervision of experienced firefighters and officers, the firefighter i performs duties such as equipment preparation and maintenance, administrative support, and basic emergency support functions. This role is designed for individuals looking to begin a career in emergency services, providing them with on‑the‑job training and a pathway toward becoming fully qualified firefighters.

• assist firefighters during emergency calls by preparing firefighting equipment, carrying supplies, and completing designated supportive tasks.
• help set up and dismantle equipment at the scene of an emergency under supervision.
• ensure that all firefighting apparatus, tools, and personal protective equipment are clean, well‑maintained, and ready for immediate use.
• perform routine checks and minor maintenance tasks to support the upkeep of station vehicles and gear.
• maintain accurate records of equipment inspections, fuel logs, and other operational documentation.
• assist in inventory management of supplies and assist with correspondence or file management as required.
• actively participate in ongoing training sessions, drills, and physical fitness programs to develop the skills required for future firefighting duties.
• understand and adhere to all safety protocols, ensuring proper use of equipment and adherence to emergency procedures.
• support local fire‑prevention initiatives by helping with the setup of public education events and safety demonstrations.
• assist in conducting routine inspections or basic fire hazard observations as directed by supervisors.

must possess a valid driver’s license acceptable for emergency services transportation. Must successfully pass physical fitness exams and background checks as required by the hiring agency. Ability to work flexible shifts, including nights, weekends, and on‑call hours, is often necessary.

• high school diploma or ged.
• successful completion of any agency‑specific orientation or basic emergency response training will be expected.

satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the office of personnel management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.

n/a

other job related education and/or experience may be substituted for all or part of these basic requirements, except for certification or licensure requirements, upon approval of the qualifications review committee.

the state of arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.