Firefighter

Location: Royal Oak Fire Department • Job Type: Full-Time • Department: Fire • Opening Date: 06/01/2026

About the role

A Firefighter does general duty emergency work in the protection of life and property. A Firefighter is responsible for the rapid and efficient performance of specialized duties under emergency conditions which may involve personal hazards. A major portion of the Firefighter’s time is necessarily spent in preparing to combat fires, medical emergencies, hazardous materials incidents, technical rescue emergencies, and incidents involving weapons of mass destruction. Firefighters are assigned to EMS duties up to their level of training. Firefighters also perform routine work in the maintenance of fire station property and equipment. Work is normally performed under close supervision, and specific work assignments are given by a superior officer, both in fighting fires and at the station. A Firefighter is subject to call at any time in the event of emergency.

Responsibilities

• Respond to alarms with fire company; lay and connect hose lines, nozzles and direct water at burning and adjacent areas.
• Ventilate burning buildings by opening windows and sky lights or cutting holes in roofs and floors; spread salvage covers and mop and sweep floors clear of water and debris.
• Drive a piece of fire apparatus to scene of fire and operate ladders and other auxiliary apparatus; use hose, rope, axes, shovels, extinguishers and other fire fighting equipment in controlling fires.
• Pump water at proper pressure; watch operation of motor & pump & make necessary adjustments or changes.
• When leaving scene of fire, see that hydrants are turned off, that ladders, hose and other equipment are gathered and placed on apparatus and that all duties assigned have been performed.
• Assume command of a company when so designated by a ranking officer.
• Participate in fire drills and attend classes in fire fighting, fire prevention, rescue and first aid.
• Rescue, move and/or carry persons at an emergency scene and administer first aid and CPR. Perform ALS duties.
• Participate in fire prevention inspection. Make periodic inspections of hydrants.
• Stand watches, answer incoming telephone calls, keep a log of necessary data in the day book.
• Perform general maintenance work in the upkeep of Fire Department property; clean and wash walls and floors; care for grounds around station; make minor repairs; wash and dry hose; wash, clean, polish and test apparatus.
• Perform other work as assigned.

Requirements

• A minimum of 2 years of college education, equivalent to at least 60 semester hours, from an accredited and recognized college or university
• A valid Michigan driver’s license
• Certification by the Michigan Firefighter Training Council as a Firefighter I & II
• A Paramedic License issued by the State of Michigan
• Completion of the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) within 12 months of hire
• Current passing EMPCO written test score

Benefits

The City of Royal Oak provides full-time employees with a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, prescription, vision, and dental coverage, flexible spending accounts, long and short-term disability, life insurance for employees and dependents, an Employee Assistance Program, access to a health and wellness center, and a robust retirement plan with both employee and employer contributions.