Firefighter

City of Columbus•Varies by position, OH

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Under immediate supervision, the Firefighter responds to fire alarms, medical incidents, and other emergencies; participates in fire prevention, station maintenance, and training; and performs related duties as required. Work may include emergency response and fire suppression, emergency medical services, rescue and patient transport, inspections, public education, equipment and station upkeep, and continuing training. A Firefighter may be required to obtain specialized training and certifications and may be directed to respond to major alarms while off duty. Upon completing the training academy, the Firefighter must maintain valid Firefighter II, Emergency Medical Technician Basic (EMT-B), and Fire Safety Inspector certifications issued by the State of Ohio. The Division of Fire may require Firefighters to obtain and retain an Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic certificate after becoming a Journeyman Firefighter.

Requirements

Possess a high school diploma at the time of appointment; a certificate of high school equivalence (GED) is accepted in lieu of a diploma.
Be at least 18 years old at the time of appointment and at least 17 years, 6 months old at the time of application.
Possess a valid driver’s license at the time of appointment.
Be a citizen of the United States.
Upon completion of the training academy, maintain valid Ohio Firefighter II, Emergency Medical Technician Basic (EMT-B), and Fire Safety Inspector certifications.
Have considerable knowledge of firefighting tactics and building construction.
Have general knowledge of basic mechanical equipment and its operation, and common hand tools and their uses.
Have some knowledge of personal computers and tablets.
Be able to communicate orally and learn technical firefighting principles and techniques, hydraulics for fire suppression, and emergency medical treatment procedures.
Be able to understand and follow oral and written directions; establish and maintain cooperative relationships with fellow employees and the public; and keep records and prepare reports.
Be able to remain calm and exercise good judgment in emergency situations for extended periods.
Be able to work in environments containing immediate dangers to life or health (IDLH) using self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), at heights exceeding 12 feet, in confined spaces, and in inclement weather.
Be able to meet current physical standards, work 24-hour shifts, and interact effectively with people of different races, backgrounds, or genders.

Responsibilities

Drive emergency vehicles to emergency scenes.
Respond to alarms and perform entry, search, rescue, attack, extrication, and ventilation tasks at fires and other emergencies.
Operate emergency apparatus and equipment at emergency scenes.
Perform fire scene size-up and attack.
Perform functions as an emergency medical technician or paramedic.
Evaluate patients’ conditions through questions, observations, or hands-on assessment to determine needed assistance and appropriate rescue techniques.
Carry patients on stretchers, backboards, or wheelchairs, with assistance, through stairs, turns, and openings.
Transport victims and equipment in emergency situations.
Perform cleanup and overhaul work at fire scenes.
Maintain fire apparatus, fire equipment, fire station grounds, and emergency medical equipment.
Inspect residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, grounds, and fire hydrants to identify and eliminate potential fire hazards.
Participate in continuing training and instruction programs.
Conduct public education and fire prevention programs.
Obtain specialized training and certifications as required.
Respond to major alarms while off duty when directed.