Job Description
JOB Under the direction of the Fire Lieutenant and Fire Captain, the Firefighter engages directly in fire suppression, rescue, forcible entry, ventilation, salvage & overhaul, fire prevention, public service, community outreach, and emergency medical operations as required. EXAMPLE OF DUTIES (1) While wearing personal protective ensembles and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), performing firefighting tasks (e.g., hoseline operations, extensive crawling, lifting and carrying heavy objects, ventilating roofs or walls using power or hand tools, forcible entry), emergency medical tasks, rescue operations, and other emergency response actions under stressful conditions, including working in extremely hot or cold environments for prolonged time periods. (2) Wearing an SCBA, which includes a demand valve–type positive-pressure facepiece or HEPA flter mask, which requires the ability to tolerate increased respiratory workloads. (3) Exposure to toxic fumes, irritants, particulates, biological (infectious) and nonbiological hazards, and heated gases, despite the use of personal protective ensembles and SCBA. (4) Climbing six or more fights of stairs while wearing a fire protective ensemble, including SCBA, weighing at least 50 lb (22.6 kg) or more and carrying equipment/tools weighing an additional 20 to 40 lb (9 to 18 kg). (5) Wearing a fire protective ensemble, including SCBA, that is encapsulating and insulated, which will result in significant fluid loss that frequently progresses to clinical dehydration and can elevate core temperature to levels exceeding 102.2°F (39°C). (6) While wearing personal protective ensembles and SCBA, searching, finding, and rescue-dragging or carrying victims ranging from newborns to adults weighing over 200 lb (90 kg) to safety despite hazardous conditions and low visibility. (7) While wearing personal protective ensembles and SCBA, advancing water-filled hose lines up to 2 1/2 in. (65 mm) in diameter from fire apparatus to occupancy [approximately 150 ft (50 m)], which can involve negotiating multiple fights of stairs, ladders, and other obstacles. (8) While wearing personal protective ensembles and SCBA, climbing ladders, operating from heights, walking or crawling in the dark along narrow and uneven surfaces that might be wet or icy, and operating in proximity to electrical power lines or other hazards. (9) Unpredictable emergency requirements for prolonged periods of extreme physical exertion without benefit of warm-up, scheduled rest periods, meals, access to medication(s), or hydration. (10) Operating fire apparatus, ambulances, or other vehicles in an emergency mode with emergency lights and sirens. (11) Critical, time-sensitive, complex problem solving during physical exertion in stressful, hazardous environments, including hot, dark, tightly enclosed spaces, that is further aggravated by fatigue, flashing lights, sirens, and other distractions. (12) Ability to communicate (give and comprehend verbal orders) while wearing personal protective ensembles and SCBA under conditions of high background noise, poor visibility, and drenching from hoselines and/or fixed protection systems (sprinklers) (13) Functioning as an integral component of a team, where sudden incapacitation of a member can result in mission failure or in risk of injury or death to civilians or other team members. (14) Working in shifts, including during nighttime that can extend beyond 24 hours. (15) Performing EMS operations, indoors and outdoors, under all weather conditions. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION Knowledge of: Current methods, principles, techniques, and practices applied to firefighting, fire prevention, and other related fields The principles and practices of emergency medical care Local and State of Ohio traffic laws; ordinances and regulations involving firefighting apparatus. Skill in: Understand and carry out complex oral and written instruction Read, write, understand, and communicate in English sufficiently to perform the essential functions of the position of firefighter Effectively use computer applications commensurate with the position of firefighter Maintain good physical conditioning and mental aptitude commensurate with the duties of the position of firefighter Mental and Physical Abilities: Effectively handle difficult or sensitive issues using interpersonal skills in a tactful, patient and courteous manner with internal stakeholders and external customers Use problem solving skills, initiative and independent judgment to solve complex problems Assess and prioritize the demands of the position of firefighter. Work in a team centered environment to fulfill the Division’s mission and goals