Firefighter

City of Porterville • Porterville, CA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Under general supervision, the Firefighter responds to emergencies involving threats to life and property, including fires, medical incidents, vehicle accidents, hazardous materials, and rescue operations. The role participates in fire suppression and prevention, emergency medical response, station and equipment maintenance, and department training. Firefighters may also assist with public education, inspections, investigations, pre-fire planning, and other City operations.

Requirements

• Be certified by the California State Board of Fire Services as a Firefighter I, or have successfully completed an approved Firefighter I Academy and be eligible for Firefighter I Certification at appointment.
• Possess and maintain a valid Class C California Driver’s License at appointment and throughout employment.
• Possess a current EMT Certification Card at appointment and maintain current certification throughout employment.
• Pass the department’s physical agility test.
• Full-time Fire Department personnel must reside in Tulare, Kern, Kings, or Fresno County; newly appointed personnel must comply within four months after appointment.
• Knowledge of basic fire behavior and suppression techniques, fire vocabulary and expressive techniques, emergency medical care and basic life support, mechanical and building construction maintenance principles, universal safety precautions, safety inspection procedures, and proper handling of toxic or hazardous materials.
• Ability to operate fire, emergency, and telecommunication equipment and apparatus; use safety gear; administer medical care and life-support procedures; solve problems; and think and act quickly in emergencies.
• Ability to communicate effectively with people of different ages, backgrounds, and emotional or mental states; shift communication styles; manage distressed or irate people; and communicate in person or using communication devices.
• Ability to understand and follow directions, retain a sense of direction in total darkness, make decisions under stress, record observations and actions, comprehend reading materials, use a computer to enter and retrieve information, and maintain effective working relationships.

Responsibilities

• Respond to fire and other emergencies; operate firefighting, control, and rescue equipment; perform fire-ground operations; and participate in hazardous materials incidents.
• Provide emergency medical aid and CPR to sick or injured people.
• Inspect, clean, and service firefighting equipment and apparatus; maintain the fire station; and test and maintain hydrant systems.
• Participate in training activities, practice drills, and physical fitness programs.
• Inspect public and commercial buildings for fire prevention, target hazard identification and review, and fire code enforcement.
• Assist with weed abatement, arson investigations, public information programs, staff development, pre-fire planning, and maintenance of pertinent maps.
• Assist with other City operations by performing assigned tasks.
• Participate in public education programs and present information on fire and burn prevention to schools, service clubs, and other public gatherings.
• Represent the department at public functions to promote fire and burn prevention.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed