Data is as of 6/15/2025.
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City of Austin - JOB DESCRIPTION

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Firefighter
FLSA: Fire Kelly EEO Category: (40) Protect/Svc
Class Code: 14050 Salary Grade: F02
Approved: Last Revised: February 04, 2025

Purpose:
 

Under immediate supervision, this position responds to fire alarms and other emergency calls to protect life and property; participates in fire station maintenance activities.
Duties, Functions and Responsibilities:
  Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.
  1. Locates, controls, and extinguishes fires using applicable extinguishing agent.
  2. Protects property from water and smoke damage by use of salvage covers.
  3. Selects proper hose nozzle, depending on type of fire, and directs stream of water or chemical onto fire.
  4. Positions and climbs ladders to gain access to upper levels of buildings or to assist individuals from burning structures.
  5. Uses rescue tools to create openings for ventilation or entrance into buildings or during vehicle rescues.
  6. Maintains knowledge of City geography, especially of assigned territory. Maintains knowledge of department policies, practices, and procedures.
  7. Assists Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel as needed by rendering emergency medical assistance to patients as defined by EMS protocol and as directed by authorized medical personnel.
  8. Maintains care and maintenance of apparatus, equipment, fire station, and grounds.
  9. Participates in drills, demonstrations, and instructional courses in hydraulics, pump operation and maintenance, and firefighting techniques.
  10. Assists public with fire safety/prevention information, and other services as requested.
  11. Completes all required paperwork and reports.
Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised:
  None.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.
  • Knowledge of technical firefighting principles and techniques.
  • Knowledge of  hydraulics.
  • Knowledge of City geography, hydrants, and location/operation of sprinkler and house line systems.
  • Knowledge of departmental policies and procedures.
  • Knowledge of emergency medical techniques.
  • Knowledge of good safety practices in the use of equipment.
  • Skill in operating and maintaining fire apparatus and equipment.
  • Skill in maintaining accurate records and preparing reports.
  • Skill in effective oral and written communication.
  • Skill in the use of emergency medical care.
  • Skill in understanding and following written and oral instructions.
  • Skill in maintaining required physical endurance and agility.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other City employees and the general public.
  • Ability to maintain current required licenses and certifications.
 
Minimum Qualifications:
 
  • Education and/or Equivalent Experience:
    • Graduation from an accredited high school or equivalent.
    • Successful completion of the Austin Fire Department Cadet Academy and probation period.
Licenses and Certifications Required:
 
  • Valid and current Class C Driver License.
  • Current Firefighter certification from the State Commission on Fire Protection Personnel Standards and Education. 
  • Current Emergency Medical Technician certification and credentialing by the Office of the Medical Director.
 

This description is intended to indicate the kinds of tasks and levels of work difficulty required of the position given this title and shall not be construed as declaring what the specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position shall be. It is not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of management to assign, direct and control the work of employees under supervision. The listing of duties and responsibilities shall not be held to exclude other duties not mentioned that are of similar kind or level of difficulty.