Firefighter This is protective service work at the entry level in extinguishing fires, and responding to emergency medical calls, hazardous materials incidents, and other emergencies. The work requires knowledge of firefighting procedures, techniques and methods, emergency medical response protocols and techniques, and rules and regulations used in protecting life and property which are learned through specialized training and on-the-job experience. Contacts require skills in communicating with others in potentially adverse and critical situations and are important in directing and controlling others. The work is semi-routine in that tasks are covered by somewhat diversified procedures and the work is patterned involving similar situations but some latitude is permitted to consider the most appropriate method, technique, or procedure to follow. Work is performed in a completely uncontrolled environment, where risks and hazards are substantial, generally unknown or unpredictable, and possibly uncontrollable. Operates specialized firefighting equipment and tools, and emergency communications equipment that requires extensive specialized training. The physical demands consist mainly of performing prolonged and arduous tasks, including heavy lifting weighing more than 50 pounds, while wearing heavy protective equipment under hazardous conditions. The work is performed under general supervision where the work assignments are subject to standard practices and procedures, and the worker is given latitude to rearrange the sequence based on changing work situations or work flow. Rotational shift work will be required, including weekend, evening and holiday work. Examples of Work Responds to fire alarms as a member of a team and extinguishes fires using various accepted fire suppression methods, techniques and procedures. Responds to medical emergency calls and provides basic or advanced life support procedures. Responds to hazardous materials incidents to control and mitigate. Ventilates burning buildings. Performs overhaul, salvage, and clean-up of fire scene. Operates firefighting equipment and tools at emergency scenes. Extricates trapped victims. Replaces tools and equipment on apparatus; cleans and performs routine maintenance on tools and equipment; and returns tools and equipment to service. Conducts hydrant inspections and pre-fire planning. Locates fire hydrants, streets, public and commercial buildings within an assigned area to learn of potential hazards. Performs routine station assignments such as inspecting Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus, turnout gear, emergency medical kit, tools and equipment, and apparatus so that they are ready for use. Participates in fire drills and training in order to keep up to date on latest techniques, methods, and procedures and maintain a high state of readiness. Performs related work as required.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Knowledge of Fire and Rescue standard operating procedures and standard administrative procedures.
Knowledge of Fire and Rescue rules and regulations.
Knowledge of firefighting techniques, methods, and procedures.
Knowledge of emergency medical protocols and techniques.
Knowledge of fire behavior and how it affects different types of building construction.
Knowledge of tools and equipment used to fight fires and perform rescue procedures.
Knowledge of, use, and maintenance of health and safety protective gear.
Knowledge of fire hazards and safety rules and regulations.
Ability to perform emergency medical procedures on victims.
Ability to read maps.
Ability to lift, carry, and operate firefighting equipment and tools.
Ability to climb ladders or walls, fences, and other obstacles.
Ability to crawl and perform search patterns.
Ability to access a floor, wall, roof, ceiling, or door.
Ability to operate emergency communications equipment.
Ability to communicate effectively in emergency situations.
Ability to move obstacles and victims during hazardous conditions.
Ability to react quickly and calmly in emergency situations.
Ability to operate Fire and Rescue emergency vehicles.
Open Requirements/Supplemental Information:
Must pass physical ability test and required medical exams during employment in this class.
Prospective employees must pass a Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) from an approved National Testing Network facility, and all required medical and psychological screening exams prior to employment in this class.
Must be free from facial hair preventing the use of breathing apparatus or safety equipment.
Must be free from any condition preventing the use of breathing apparatus or other safety equipment.
Must be a nonuser of tobacco or tobacco products and remain a nonuser during employment in this class.
Must complete required training courses and exams during the probationary period.
Must be a high school graduate or equivalent and at least 18 years of age.
Must meet qualifications for employment, as shown in Chapter 633.34 of Florida Statutes.
Rotational shift work is required, including weekend and holiday work.
EMT Certification is required prior to appointment and must be maintained.
Minimum Standards Course prescribed by FL Statutes and FL Bureau of Fire Standards and Training is required prior to appointment & must be maintained.
FLA Class E Driver's License is required prior to appointment and must be maintained.
The probationary period for this classification is twelve (12) months.
This classification performs safety-sensitive functions and is subject to pre-employment, random and other drug/alcohol testing programs as set forth in the City of Jacksonville's Drug Free Workplace Policy (0401).
Benefits:
The City of Jacksonville provides a wide array of benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Our comprehensive benefit programs include medical, dental and vision plans; life insurance coverage for you and your dependents; flexible spending plans for medical reimbursement, dependent care, parking, and transit expenses; an employee assistance program for you and your dependents; a 457(b) tax-deferred compensation plan to supplement your retirement, and a ROTH IRA plan. We also provide an extensive wellness program that includes a health intervention program if qualified, lunch and learns, health fairs, and discounted gym memberships. Please visit the Employee Benefits website for details on all the plans we offer.
