Firefighter I

POSITION TITLE: FIREFIGHTER I 

DEPARTMENT: FIRE DEPARTMENT 

SALARY: Grade 25 $43,472.45 - $73,902.15 (APPROXIMATELY $ 14.93 - $ 25.38 (PER HOUR) 

FLSA CLASS: HOURLY NON-EXEMPT POSITION (FULL TIME) 

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES: An employee in this class performs general firefighting work to protect life and property by combating and extinguishing fires. This position requires work in hazardous and physically demanding environments, involving both emergency response and station maintenance duties. Employees are responsible for participating in fire suppression and rescue operations, maintaining departmental equipment and facilities, and participating in ongoing training. Work involves public contact, use of good judgment under pressure, and adherence to modern firefighting practices and departmental regulations. Work is performed under the general supervision of a Fire Captain at the assigned station and is evaluated through observation, inspection, and discussion for adherence to procedures and effectiveness in carrying out responsibilities. 

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Engage in fire suppression activities, including entering burning structures, searching for victims, extinguishing fires, and ventilating buildings. 

• Conduct salvage and overhaul operations post-fire to protect property and minimize damage. 

• Operate, clean, and maintain firefighting vehicles and equipment. 

• Perform general housekeeping and groundskeeping tasks at the fire station. 

• Attend and participate in training sessions, fire drills, and study assignments to maintain knowledge and skills. 

• Conduct service inspections of fire hydrants throughout the City. 

• Perform related duties as assigned. 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: 

• General knowledge of firefighting principles, practices, and procedures. 

• Familiarity with the geographic layout of the City and fire hydrant locations. 

• Knowledge of Fire Department rules, local ordinances, and CPR/first-aid practices. 

• Skill in the use and maintenance of firefighting tools and equipment. 

• Ability to make sound decisions during emergency situations. 

• Ability to interact courteously and professionally with the public and other emergency personnel.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Work in this class requires the ability to perform strenuous physical activities including climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, lifting, pushing, pulling, grasping, and repetitive motion. Visual acuity is required for operating machines and reading gauges and measurement devices. The employee is subject to both indoor and outdoor environmental conditions, including extreme temperatures. Exposure to bloodborne pathogens, hazardous materials, smoke, and other dangers is expected. The use of protective equipment, including respirators, is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

DESIREABLE TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE: Graduation from high school or possession of a GED, supplemented by formal courses in firefighting. Certification in CPR is required. 

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Must possess a valid North Carolina Driver’s License with a good driving record. Must meet or exceed standards established for firefighters by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) within the specified timeframe. 

APPLICATION PROCESS: Applications may be obtained from the Human Resources Department (located in City Hall) or on the City of Thomasville’s website at https://www.thomasville-nc.gov (visit the Employment Opportunities page). 

SELECTION PROCESS: Applications will be reviewed to select the best qualified applicants. Selection will be by a structured interview process. 

THE CITY OF THOMASVILLE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE ON THE BASIS OF RACE, GENDER, COLOR, CREED, AGE, DISABILITY OR NATIONAL ORIGIN