Overview

Job Description

Position Overview

Under general direction, this role carries out the full range of firefighting responsibilities, including fire suppression, rescue operations, salvage activities, and basic emergency medical care. The position also involves routine training, equipment upkeep, and station maintenance. The Firefighter reports directly to a Captain and/or Lieutenant.

Core Responsibilities

Fire Suppression & Emergency Response

  • Respond to structural fires, rescue incidents, hazardous materials situations, and other emergency calls as assigned.

  • Deploy, connect, and manage hose lines, nozzles, and firefighting appliances; operate ladders and rescue tools as required.

  • Conduct salvage operations using protective covers, vacuums, mops, and squeegees to minimize property damage.

  • Perform ventilation operations by creating openings in structures or using fans, fog streams, hand tools, and power equipment.

  • Enter smoke-filled or hazardous environments while wearing full protective gear and SCBA to suppress fires and assist with rescues.

  • Provide basic first aid and emergency care to injured or ill individuals.

  • Complete pre-incident surveys of commercial properties within the assigned response area.

Training & Skill Development

  • Participate in scheduled training sessions to maintain proficiency in established procedures and to learn new firefighting and rescue techniques.

Readiness & Station Duties

  • Clean and restore firefighting gear and equipment following emergency responses or training drills.

  • Maintain assigned areas of the fire station in accordance with departmental schedules and standards.

Additional Duties

  • Operate fire pumps, aerial equipment, and related apparatus as assigned.

  • Assist with fire prevention and public safety initiatives.

  • Inspect and maintain fire hydrants and complete required documentation.

  • Perform other related duties as directed by supervisory staff.

Key Challenges

This position requires sound decision-making in high-pressure environments and the ability to remain operationally ready to respond to emergencies at all times.

Equipment Used

  • Personal protective equipment, including SCBA

  • Hand tools such as axes and forcible entry equipment

  • Power tools including saws and vehicle extrication devices

Minimum Qualifications

Entry-Level Firefighter

  • Must be at least 18 years of age by April 29, 2025

  • Valid driver’s license

Certified Firefighter

  • High School Diploma or GED

  • Valid driver’s license

  • Minimum age of 18

  • Firefighter II certification issued by the Tennessee Commission on Firefighting, IFSAC, or ProBoard

  • Completion of a minimum 320-hour basic firefighter training academy, verified by the FFD Training Division

  • Current EMT, AEMT, or Paramedic license in the State of Tennessee or a valid out-of-state license meeting Tennessee reciprocity standards

Tennessee EMS reciprocity requirements are available through the Tennessee Department of Health.

Education & Experience

Applicants must be 18 years or older. Required knowledge and skills are typically obtained through an associate degree or equivalent from a two-year college or technical school, six months to one year of related experience or training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.