PRIMARY PURPOSE:

Performs firefighting, fire prevention, emergency medical services and rescue work; maintains and cleans Fire Department buildings, grounds, and equipment.

SUPERVISION:

Works under direct supervision of a Fire Captain.

DESCRIPTION OF WORK:

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Responds to alarms for fires, hazardous chemical and emergency medical incidents.
2. Lays and connects hose to hydrants and fire apparatus, attaches and changes nozzles, aims and directs water streams.
3. Uses various hand and power tools to fight fires, gain entry, extricate victims, and ventilate buildings.
4. Utilizes various portable extinguishers, wet and dry chemicals, solvents and absorbents to fight fires and contain spills.
5. Performs salvage and overhaul activities including protecting building contents, cleaning, securing and preserving fire scenes.
6. Removes firefighting equipment from trucks; lifts and carries items; sets up and uses ladders and equipment as necessary.
7. Climbs ground and aerial ladders; scales walls and rappels using rope and harness; maneuvers under, over or around obstacles.
8. Searches smoked filled buildings using self contained breathing apparatus looking for location of fires, occupants or victims.
9. Performs prolonged running, walking or standing while conducting inspections, pre-fire tours and emergency scene operations.
10. Responds to emergency and non-emergency medical assist calls.
11. Cares for injured and administers basic emergency medical aid.
12. Operates vehicles and fire apparatus as required.
13. Performs routine and preventive maintenance on equipment and assists in periodic inspections or certification tests.
14. Reads, studies and interprets department procedures, technical manuals, and building plans.
15. Participates in in-service training, televised training, and drills to maintain required level of knowledge and skills proficiency.
16. Performs pre-fire planning activities including touring and studying businesses for physical layout, possible hazards, location of water sources, potential life loss, etc.
17. Prepares and delivers public education programs regarding fire prevention and safety and conducts tours of the fire station.
18. Assists in fire safety inspections of public and private buildings or property.
19. Maintains and cleans Fire Department buildings and grounds.    

IMPORTANT FUNCTIONS:

1. Identifies and reports maintenance needs of assigned equipment.
2. Participates in an on-going physical fitness training program designed and/or approved by department administration.

Performs related work as required.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

Any combination of training or experience providing the following knowledge, skills and abilities: 

Knowledge

Entry level position, no specific subject matter knowledge required.

Abilities

Successfully complete an intensive training program including but not limited to the principles and methodologies of firefighting, emergency medical services and rescue work; follow oral and written instructions; read and interpret building construction plans, technical manuals, and procedural guidelines; independently view, learn, and apply applicable televised technical training; communicate effectively both verbally and in writing; exercise sound, independent judgment; react appropriately, quickly, and calmly under stress; deal effectively and courteously with associates and the general public; possess a high degree of integrity and strong work ethic with the ability to detect and avoid conflicts of interest; must be able to ascend and work at heights required in emergency operations which may involve the tallest man-made structure or natural formation responded to by the Springfield Fire Department; performs effectively as a member of the team in carrying out the City’s stated mission and philosophy; perform the essential functions of the job without posing a direct threat to the health and safety of others.

Experience, Education, and Training

Must be a high school graduate or have G.E.D.

Physical Requirements

Visual defects cannot exceed 20/100 in both eyes and vision must be corrected to 20/30 in both eyes; successful long-term soft contact lens wearers shall not be subject to the uncorrected criterion; must be able to distinguish primary colors; must be able to pass a post offer medical examination including a hearing test; must be able to run, walk, crawl, jump, climb ladders and stairways, and sit and stand for long periods of time; must be able to lift, carry, push or pull weight up to 125 pounds; must be able to bend, squat, kneel, twist and reach overhead; and must be able to hold and grip objects.

Working Environment

Both indoor and outdoor environments; susceptible to a variety of extreme weather conditions; exposed to life threatening conditions and situations associated with firefighting, hazardous chemical incidents, and emergency medical situations such as toxic chemicals, fumes, smoke, falls, danger from collapsing walls, ceilings or roofs, and possible exposure to contagious diseases; subject to poor visibility and ventilation, and working in cramped spaces.

Licensing/Certification

Must possess a valid Missouri Motor Vehicle Operator's License; must possess Emergency Medical Technician - B and Firefighter I and II certifications before being invited to the second interview; certifications must be maintained throughout the appointment.

Miscellaneous Requirements

Must successfully complete the Driver/Pump Operator certification within 36 months of employment. Must be at least 18 years of age; must pass a background investigation; must pass post-offer drug test; shift and station assignment may vary depending on department requirements.