Firefighter

City of Paragould • Paragould, AR

23d • Onsite

About The Position

The Firefighter is responsible for performing duties accurately to protect the lives and property of the citizens of the City of Paragould. The role drives and operates emergency and other equipment safely and effectively, maintains equipment in good working order, and follows applicable safety rules and regulations. This is a non-exempt, safety-sensitive position.

The position responds to emergencies including fires, hazardous-material incidents, motor-vehicle accidents, extrications, and technical rescues. Duties also include operating fire apparatus and equipment, providing emergency aid, inspecting buildings and fire-safety systems, maintaining apparatus and equipment, documenting department activities, participating in training and drills, and helping with public education and emergency-preparedness activities. The employee must live or move within five miles of Paragould City Limits when hired and remain within that distance for the duration of employment.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED; at least 18 years of age.
• Completion of high school or GED plus specialized schooling, at least two years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience demonstrating the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Knowledge of modern firefighting principles, practices, and methods.
• Knowledge of CPR and first-aid procedures and techniques.
• Valid State driver's license, Class D, by the time of hire, maintained throughout employment.
• Good moral character and successful completion of a comprehensive background investigation.
• Pass a physical agility test based on required firefighting activities and duties.
• Live or move within five miles of Paragould City Limits when hired and remain within that distance during employment.
• Pass an SCBA respiratory test.
• Complete all state- and department-required firefighter/driver certifications.
• Meet the City's safety-sensitive position requirements; the City states it will not employ a qualified patient in a safety- or security-sensitive position.
• Demonstrate ethical conduct and effective teamwork in support of the community and organization.

Responsibilities

• Respond to emergencies, including fires, hazardous-material incidents, motor-vehicle accidents, extrications, and technical rescues, and safely transport crew members to scenes.
• Operate complex machinery and fire equipment, including ladders, pumps, and water-supply systems, while maintaining proper hydraulic pressure.
• Operate radios and other communication equipment.
• Provide emergency aid, including first aid, and assist in moving people from fire or accident scenes.
• Enter burning structures as required to extinguish fires and remove occupants or hazardous materials.
• Clean and perform preventive maintenance on hoses, tools, and equipment after alarms; refuel power equipment and recharge SCBA cylinders.
• Inspect air packs, pumps, and tools daily, and recharge, repair, or replace equipment as needed.
• Keep firefighting equipment and clothing properly located and ready for use.
• Wash, wax, and refuel fire trucks; perform preventive maintenance on fire apparatus and record maintenance problems.
• Inspect buildings, hydrants, sprinkler systems, and other structures for potential firefighting hazards and related information.
• Re-inspect buildings or businesses cited for fire- or safety-code violations to confirm corrective action.
• Participate in fire drills and attend classes on firefighting methods, standards, and related subjects.
• Respond to off-duty fire calls and attend monthly meetings.
• Prepare and maintain department reports and data manually or by computer.
• Help develop plans for emergency preparedness, hazardous communications, training, firefighting, hazardous materials, and emergency-aid activities.
• Guide fire-station tours and make presentations to schools or civic groups as assigned.
• Receive, investigate, and respond as appropriate to citizen complaints about fire and safety hazards.
• Perform station housekeeping, cut grass, and maintain the grounds and parking area.
• Maintain familiarity with buildings and streets in the assigned coverage area and other areas of the City.
• Perform pump and hose tests as scheduled.
• Perform other related duties as required or assigned.
• Complete Rookie School at the Arkansas Fire Academy or pass Firefighter I and II modules within one year of hire.
• Obtain required firefighting certifications shortly after hire.

What This Job Offers

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