Entry Level / Lateral Firefighter (Current Opening)

Town of Vail • Vail, CO

19h • Onsite

About The Position

The Town of Vail Fire and Emergency Services (VFES) is currently accepting applications for the position of Firefighter. This is an exciting opportunity to serve one of Colorado’s most iconic mountain towns by protecting life and property through emergency medical services, fire suppression, technical rescue, public education, and hazard mitigation. As a member of our fire company, the Firefighter responds to a wide range of emergencies, including structure fires, wildland fires, hazardous material incidents, vehicle extrications, water/ice rescues, and medical emergencies. Firefighters are responsible for maintaining a high level of physical fitness and operational readiness, as well as contributing to community outreach, inspections, and training programs. Work is performed under the direction of a Company Officer. New firefighters are expected to demonstrate professionalism, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning and leadership development. All VFES firefighters must complete the Work Capacity Test (Pack Test – Arduous Level) during their introductory period and annually thereafter. This position operates on a 48/96 shift schedule (approximately 2,920 hours annually). Overtime is earned for hours worked beyond 106 in a pay period.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• State of Colorado Firefighter I certification or equivalent.
• State of Colorado Hazardous Materials – Operations or equivalent.
• State of Colorado EMT-Basic certification or NREMT equivalent.
• Colorado Driver’s license, minimum class R (must obtain within 30 days of hire)
• Must complete and maintain all training hours required by federal, state and department policy, including those not listed in this Job Description.

Nice To Haves

• State of Colorado Firefighter II certification or equivalent.
• Associate’s Degree in fire science or closely related field from a regionally or nationally accredited college or university.
• State of Colorado Commercial Drivers License- Class B.
• Driver/Operator experience.
• Graduates of the Colorado Mountain College Fire Academy are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Responding to emergency calls for fire suppression, EMS, rescue, and hazardous materials mitigation
• Providing emergency medical care to the sick and injured
• Participating in daily drills, physical fitness training, and required certifications
• Driving and operating fire apparatus as needed
• Maintaining fire equipment, vehicles, and facilities
• Engaging in public education and community risk reduction programs
• Contributing to fire inspections and pre-incident planning
• Preparing reports, maintaining documentation, and records
• Participating in ongoing technical rescue training (rope, confined space, ice, water, etc.)
• Complete the Work Capacity Test (Pack Test – Arduous Level) during their introductory period and annually thereafter.
• Begin pursuit of Acting Engineer status in a timely manner and as deemed appropriate by their company officer or the Fire Chief.

Benefits

• medical
• dental
• vision
• employer paid life and disability retirement plans
• generous vacation benefits
• tuition reimbursement
• professional development opportunities
• lifestyle benefits that range tennis pass, golf pass and other ski pass/wellness benefits

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED