South Wichita News

Position Summary

Under the supervision of the Assistant Chief, the Firefighter/EMT/EMICT performs specialized work in prevention and suppression of fires and providing life saving services (EMS). Firefighting work includes combating, extinguishing and preventing fires, as well as, operating and maintaining fire department equipment and apparatus. EMS duties include responding to medical calls, both emergency and non-emergency, transporting sick and injured persons in response area.

Essential Functions

• Responds to fire and medical calls;
• Makes forcible entry into buildings when necessary;
• Assists in rescue operations involving vehicle accidents, structure fires and industrial accidents;
• Assists in the suppression of fires;
• Performs salvage and ventilation work;
• Operates a variety of tools and equipment, including power saw, generators, rescue tools;
• Operates firefighting apparatus and equipment;
• Correctly implements emergency medical procedures;
• Operates medical vehicle and equipment to the skill level of training;
• Assists with loading and transferring patients;
• Performs general maintenance work in the upkeep of the department’s equipment, apparatus and facilities;
• Assists in testing of hose, hydrants, ladders and pumps;
• Attends drills and classes for fire and emergency medical services;

Marginal Functions

• Assists with fire inspections and pre-fire plans;
• Performs general office duties;
• Assists in talks and classes for general public in fire prevention and emergency medical services;
• Performs related tasks as required.

Position Requirements

Experience: General knowledge of firefighting and EMS procedures. Employee is expected to have acquired the necessary information and skills to perform the job reasonably well after one year in the position.

Education/Licenses: High school diploma or G.E.D. required. Kansas certified EMT/EMICT requires a valid Class B Kansas Driver’s License.

Technical Skills: Knowledge of all fire control methods and techniques. Knowledge of fire and building codes, life safety codes, hazardous materials and construction materials. Knowledge of EMS methods, procedures and techniques. Good oral and written communication skills and interpersonal skills. The ability to receive and interpret written and oral instructions. Ability to operate all firefighting, rescue, emergency medical equipment and department apparatus.

Problem Solving: Problem solving is a factor in this position. Problems include determining strategies for fire suppression, EMS calls and working with personnel matters.

Decision-Making: Decision making is a factor in this position. Decisions include the selection of proper methods and techniques for fire suppression and EMS calls. Decisions generally follow prescribed policies and procedures, but may occasionally require the use of independent judgement.

Supervision: Overall supervision is provided and job related decisions are reviewed by the Assistant Chief. Employee does not have supervisory responsibility over subordinates.

Accountability: Employee is not responsible for budgetary control and does not participate in the annual budget process. Not responsible for cash receipts.

Personal Relations: Frequent contact with City departments and the general public.

Working Conditions: Physical effort is required. Extreme weather, bloodborne pathogens, toxic fumes and hazardous situations during firefighting and emergency medical response are factors.

Physical Requirements: Requires physical exertion to manually move, lift, carry or push extremely heavy (100 pounds or more) objects. The ability to ascend and descend ladders using feet and legs and/or hands and arms. The ability to work in high places maintaining body equilibrium to prevent falling.

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