Firefighter

Summary

To perform a wide variety of technical tasks in support of the fire suppression and prevention functions, emergency rescue and handling of hazardous materials; to operate and maintain a variety of fire and rescue apparatus and equipment; to perform investigative work and other special assignments; and to participate in fire prevention, station, and equipment maintenance activities of the Tupelo Fire Department.

Distinguishing Characteristics

This is the full journey level class within the firefighting series. Employees within this class are distinguished from the Probationary Firefighter by the performance of the full range of duties assigned under general supervision and by the performance of specialized work as assigned. Employees at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise, and are fully aware of the operational procedures and policies of the work unit having been trained such that they meet the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Professional Firefighter standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Respond to emergency calls; provide appropriate services as required including rescue and fire suppression; prepare reports regarding emergency incidents as assigned.
• Perform rescue for trapped or injured persons; provide necessary first aid in the absence of paramedics; operate numerous types of rescue, emergency and fire suppression equipment as necessary.
• Perform a variety of duties relating to fire prevention and suppression under general supervision.
• Participate in cleaning and maintaining station facilities, grounds, equipment and apparatus; ensure appropriate conditions are maintained at assigned stations; ensure all equipment and apparatus is in a constant state of readiness for emergency calls.
• Drive, operate, inspect, and perform minor repair and preventive maintenance, and other technical tasks related to the apparatus and equipment in the Tupelo Fire Department.
• Participate in training and maintain the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to meet NFPA standards for a Firefighter, covering fire alarms and communications, emergency medical care, fire behavior, rescue, safety, overhaul and inspections, and the use of equipment and techniques including portable extinguishers, SCBA, forcible entry, ventilation, ropes, hoses, nozzles, appliances, fire streams, sprinklers, salvage, ladders and water supplies.
• Participate in a variety of fire prevention and operations activities and programs including safety and training, fire investigations, code enforcement, oversight of the fire scene and equipment operation and maintenance; respond to natural disasters, major accidents, incidents involving hazardous materials, and other emergency situations.
• Study street and apartment locations in the assigned district; study building plans and fire prevention systems in buildings in the assigned district; study pre‑fire plans.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Additional Important Duties and Responsibilities

• Use departmental computer equipment to review records, inquire about activities and programs, and input various data.
• Give tours of the assigned fire station, demonstrate fire equipment and apparatus, and participate in educational programs for various groups and the general public.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Receives direction from upper‑level supervisory staff. Exercises no supervision.

Qualification Requirements

Knowledge

• Policies and procedures of the City of Tupelo and the Tupelo Fire Department.
• Operation, maintenance and uses of modern firefighting apparatus and equipment, including aerial and pumping apparatus.
• CPR and First Aid procedures.
• Operational characteristics, services and activities of comprehensive fire suppression and prevention programs, and emergency medical services.
• Pertinent Federal, State, and local laws, codes and regulations.
• National Fire Protection Association standards for a firefighter.
• Standard Fire Prevention and Building Codes.
• Principles, practices, methods and techniques of modern fire and life safety, fire suppression and emergency medical activities.
• The geography of the city and surrounding area.
• Specialized communications equipment.
• Various building construction techniques and the consequences of each type for fire suppression and prevention activities.
• Approved procedures and policies for hazardous or toxic materials storage, transport, and cleanup.
• Safe work practices and procedures.

Ability

• Meet NFPA standards for a firefighter.
• Work under stress and use good judgment in emergency situations.
• Tactfully respond to requests and inquiries from the general public.
• Operate specialized emergency communications equipment.
• Assist in resolving a variety of situations characterized by conflict or danger.
• Prepare and safely operate department vehicles, apparatus, and other emergency equipment.
• Prepare clear and concise reports.
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with city and other government officials, community groups, and the general public.
• Apply Federal, State, and local policies, procedures, laws and regulations.
• Work irregular hours, including weekends, holidays, and extended hours in emergencies, disasters, or other situations influenced by workload or staffing difficulties.