Firefighter

Job Overview

The City of Grand Forks seeks a Firefighter to serve the community by protecting life, property, and the environment through emergency response, fire suppression, rescue, and prevention activities. New applicants will participate in a training academy once employed.

• Perform fire suppression duties; identify, select, and operate fire hoses, nozzles, and appliances; place and operate ladders, fire service tools, and equipment; provide pre‑hospital emergency medical treatment as needed.
• Execute forcible entry techniques and secure the emergency scene.
• Conduct fire prevention duties and assist in building pre‑incident plans; document fire inspections.
• Respond to emergencies and non‑emergencies, including hazardous materials, aircraft, and multi‑casualty incidents; rescue trapped individuals.
• Maintain apparatus, equipment, and departmental property; perform weekly inventories.
• Complete special training in apparatus operations and fire service hydraulics; maintain certification levels.
• Answer emergency and non‑emergency telephone calls; dispatch apparatus and personnel; respond to electronic communications.
• Perform public relations and education duties; demonstrate firefighting equipment and apparatus.
• After the probationary period, assume a specialty function as assigned.
• Complete an annual incumbent physical ability test (IPAT).

• Prepare records, logs, and reports as required.
• Perform related duties and responsibilities as required.

• Principles and practices of fire suppression and prevention; modern firefighting techniques; emergency pre‑hospital care; equipment operation; occupational hazards.
• Clear and concise communication, both orally and in writing; effective working relationships; mental capacity for interaction; physical condition for duties; audio/visual discrimination for successful performance.
• Operates and tests firefighter apparatus and medical equipment under emergency conditions; interprets department policies; maintains certification; reacts quickly and works productively under hazardous conditions; follows oral and written instructions; maintains physical conditioning.

• Perform firefighting and rescue tasks under stressful conditions while wearing PPE and SCBA.
• Work in extremely hot or cold environments for prolonged periods.
• Tolerate increased respiratory workloads while wearing SCBA or APR.
• Climb multiple flights of stairs and ladders while wearing PPE and carrying heavy equipment.
• Conduct search and rescue operations involving drag or carry of victims.
• Advance water‑filled hoselines up to 2.5” in diameter to structures up to 200’ away.
• Operate apparatus or vehicles in emergency mode with lights, sirens, and horns.
• Perform time‑sensitive problem solving during physical exertion in hazardous environments.
• Communicate while wearing PPE and SCBA in high‑noise conditions.
• Function as a team member in missions where incapacitation risks mission failure.
• Work in shifts at a fire station, including nighttime; shifts may extend beyond 24 hours.
• Spend prolonged periods in unpredictable emergencies without rest, meals, or hydration.
• Possess exposure to toxic fumes, irritants, biological hazards, and heated gases despite PPE and SCBA.

• No prior firefighting experience required; new employees attend a training academy once employed.
• Equivalent to an Associate’s degree or combined work experience and education.
• Possession of or ability to obtain a valid driver’s license.
• Obtain a National Registry Certification as an EMT within the probationary period (North Dakota licensure at employee’s expense).
• Obtain Pro Board Firefighter I, Hazmat Awareness, Hazmat Operations, and eventually Pro Board Firefighter II during or after the academy.

Entry level

Full‑time

Other, Information Technology, and Management

Government Administration