Fire Apparatus Operator

Fire Apparatus Operator

Decatur Fire and Rescue

FT Certified Firefighters - $3,000 Signing Incentive on First Check

Job Summary

This position operates fire apparatus in support of fire suppression and other emergency response functions.

Major Duties

• Conducts annual company inspections; assists with investigations and preplans.
• Responds to emergency calls involving fire, EMS, hazardous materials, natural and manmade disasters, rescue, and other critical incidents; transports firefighting crews to emergency scenes; assumes command, as needed, until relieved by a superior officer.
• Operates and controls fire apparatus; drives fire apparatus to and from emergency scenes; operates fire pumps, aerial apparatus, and other equipment; positions apparatus at incident scenes; reads gauges and adjusts controls; sets pump pressure; opens and closes pump valves; determines available flow from water source; flushes and refills pump and booter tanks.
• Implements actions necessary to save lives and property; extricates victims from structure fires and vehicle accidents; administers emergency medical care; performs structure ventilation duties; responds to hazardous materials incidents.
• Provides emergency medical care to patients in different settings as certified, including homes, public areas, and accident scenes; assesses patient conditions, obtains vital signs, and determines appropriate treatment plans based on established protocols and guidelines; communicates with dispatchers, partners, other emergency providers, and medical personnel via 2-way radio and telephone regarding sick or injured persons' condition, vitals, and other relevant treatment information; administers medication and therapy or treatment to patients on site or in transit.
• Inspects apparatus and equipment to ensure that it is in proper working order; performs routine maintenance of equipment as assigned; inspects and maintains hoses and other equipment.
• Maintains and cleans the station, grounds, and living quarters.
• Participates in public relations functions with schools, churches, and other organizations.
• Participates in continuing training and drill activities; provides training to other department personnel as certified. Remains familiar with area streets, geography, and landmarks; learns roads and alternate routes to populated areas; learns fire hydrant locations.
• Conducts and assists with public safety education, including fire safety and prevention.
• Completes required reports of incidents occurring during an assigned shift.
• Completes hose and hydrant testing.
• Performs related duties.

Knowledge Required by the Position

• Knowledge of modern firefighting techniques and equipment.
• Knowledge of laws and regulations relating to the control and prevention of fires.
• Knowledge of department and city policies and procedures, and federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
• Knowledge of computers and job-related software programs.
• Knowledge of the capabilities and uses of emergency vehicles and equipment.
• Skill in operating assigned fire apparatus under emergency and non-emergency conditions.
• Skill in the provision of medical care in emergency situations.
• Skill in the use of radio/communications equipment.
• Skill in planning, organization, and decision making.
• Skill in oral and written communication.

Complexity/Scope of Work

• The work consists of apparatus operation, fire suppression, rescue, and other emergency response duties. The variety of emergency situations encountered contributes to the complexity of the work.
• The purpose of this position is to operate fire apparatus in order to protect lives and property through fire suppression activities and the provision of other emergency response services. Successful performance helps ensure the safety of lives and property in the community.

Physical Demands/Work Environment

• The work is typically performed while sitting, standing, stooping, walking, bending, or crouching. The employee frequently lifts heavy objects, climbs ladders, uses tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity, distinguishes between shades of color, and utilizing the sense of smell.
• The work is typically performed in an office, except while at fire or other emergency scenes. The employee may be exposed to machinery with moving parts, irritating chemicals, extreme temperatures, hazardous situations, and inclement weather. Work requires the use of protective clothing and devices.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• More than four years of related experience required.
• Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver's license issued by the State of Georgia for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.
• Ability to meet current requirements set forth by the National Fire Protection Association and the Georgia Firefighter Standards and Training Act.
• Possession of or ability to readily obtain appropriate state EMS certification.
• Child Passenger Seat Technician
• CPR Instructor

An Equal Opportunity Employer

The City of Decatur is committed to having a workforce that reflects diversity at all levels and is an equal opportunity employer. Therefore, qualified applicants are considered for employment, and employees are treated during employment without regard to actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, marital status, familial status, or veteran/military status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.

The City of Decatur recognizes that its employees are its greatest asset and is committed to providing a comprehensive, competitive benefits package designed to support employees' health, financial security, and professional growth.

Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance; employer-paid life insurance; pension plan; optional 457 Deferred Compensation and Roth retirement plans; Flexible Spending Accounts; tuition assistance of up to $5,250 annually; Employee Assistance Program; and voluntary supplemental insurance options.

Government Careers

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