FIRE CAREERS

Firefighters perform duties related to suppression, vehicle

and technical rescue, basic life support and fire prevention

activities.  Firefighters work under the direct supervision

of a company officer and must adhere to rules and

regulations for the safety of all persons.

 

Minimum Qualifications for Recruit Firefighter

A Firefighter Recruit must possess the following prior to

application deadline:

 

• High school or general equivalency diploma (GED).

• Certification under the National Registry or Emergency Medical Technicians AND/OR Kansas Emergency Medical Technician (EMT).

• Successful completion of the following National Board on Fire Service Professional Qualifications (Pro Board) OR International Fire Service Accreditation (IFSAC) certifications through the Kansas Fire and Rescue Training Institute or equally recognized and accredited organization:

  • Firefighter I​

  • HAZMAT Awareness

• A Firefighter Recruit must provide the following at or prior to the Staff Interview:

• Certified Physical Agility Test (CPAT) within the past 12 Months OR​

• Successfully complete the Ottawa Fire Department's Physical Agility Test the day of the Staff Interview

 

Work Schedule

Shift fire personnel work a regular pattern of 24-hour shifts in a 28-day work period.  This includes 24 hours on duty, 24 hours off duty, 24 hours on duty, 24 hours off duty, 24 hours on duty, 96 hours off duty.  This is referred to as the Berkley Rotation.

 

Become a Volunteer Firefighter

Duties of the Volunteer Firefighter include protection of life and property by combating, extinguishing and preventing fires.  An employee in this class performs specialized firefighting duties under emergency conditions, frequently involving considerable physical dange.  Work is performed under the direct supervision of the supervising officer, but requires thourough individual understanding of firefighting methods.  The employee is also responsible for assisting in maintenance of fire equipment, apparatus and quarters.

Education and Experience

• High school or general equivalency diploma (GED).

• This is a volunteer position and prior experience in firefighting is not required but preferred.

• Volunteer is expected to have acquired the necessary information and skills to perform the job reasonably well after six months in the position.

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Expectations

• Attend monthly meetings

• Complete a minimum of 8 hours of shift time per month

• Respond to structure fires and major incidents

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