Firefighter

JOB SUMMARY

As an integral member of the Ottawa Fire Services’ (OFS) emergency response team, Firefighters provide emergency response services in order to protect the lives, property and environment for the citizens of and visitors to the City of Ottawa.
Immediately, responds and performs all emergency scene duties, such as, but not limited to: firefighting, forcible entry, search and rescue, emergency medical aid and CPR, vehicle extrication, technical rescue operations, hazardous materials operations, and securing the emergency scene for the safety of the public and members of OFS.
Functions/operates under a command structure as an effective and supportive team member at all emergencies from small scale incidents to large scale disasters. Operates at height, in confined spaces, and in uncontrolled environments, including those that are immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH).
Drives/operates any apparatus/vehicles in accordance with policy and Highway Traffic Act (HTA) and operates and uses all Ottawa Fire Services equipment, such as pumps, hoses, ground ladders, aerial apparatus platforms & ladders, generators, vehicle and equipment extrication tools, etc. Completes in-station duties and tasks, including: cleaning, inspections, testing & documentation of all inventory and equipment used, returns all equipment used to a state of readiness, as well as, regular maintenance of City of Ottawa property and grounds.
On a daily basis, cleans, inspects, maintains and performs safety checks on equipment and apparatus while maintaining a clean and orderly fire station. Completes all required training and retraining as assigned within the allotted timeframe. Participates in Pre-Incident Planning in order to be familiar with the immediate response area risks as well as new or unique building challenges, transportation route familiarity and obstacles such as those routes that are under construction. Educates the public about fire prevention and fire safety practices by participating in Public Education, and Fire Prevention activities as well as conducting Community Fire Safety programs, as required.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Successful completion of the Ontario Secondary School Diploma OSSD (Grade 12) or academic equivalent diploma.
Previous fire service or related sectors work experience would be an asset.
Skills and abilities acquired though related work such as trades, other emergency services, relevant training and educational programs would also be considered an asset.

CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENCES

• Successful completion of National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1001 Level 1 & 2 and NFPA 470 or 1072 or 472 Operations level (proof of IFSAC or Pro Board seal). A Letter of Compliance with NFPA Standards from the Ontario Fire Marshal's Office (Grandfathering) will be accepted in lieu of Seals (documents required).
  Successful completion of:
• The Ontario Fire Administration Inc. (OFAI) Stage One Firefighter Aptitude and Character Test (as verified by possession of a current and valid Candidate Testing Services CTS Certificate) (document required); or,
• Aptitude test, as required by Ottawa Fire Services. (This is not required prior to applying, but you must indicate that you do not have a OFAI Stage One Certificate, above, when completing the application for the position.) 
• Possess a valid Ontario Class “D” license with a “Z” air brake endorsement with no more than three (3) demerit points accumulated, or provincial and/or territorial equivalent (document required).

KNOWLEDGE, COMPETENCIES & SKILLS

• Must understand and follow the Chain of Command at all times. 
• Must be fit and able to handle the sustained, intense physical, emotional, and mental effort required to perform duties of this position. 
• Willingness and ability to work in extremely challenging, adverse, and dangerous conditions and situations. 
• Ability to work effectively under stressful conditions. 
• Problem solving/analytical skills. 
• Mechanical aptitude and skills to operate and troubleshoot equipment and assess emergency situations.
• Customer service skills to assist all members of the public, Ottawa Fire Services staff and all other levels of City personnel. 
• Ability to effectively prioritize tasks/demands as appropriate.
• Ability to work within a team environment and positively interact within a diverse work environment. 
• Take initiative and able to work independently with minimum supervision. 
• Oral and written communication skills. 
• Computer and technology skills for report completion and development, training, as well as technology use during emergencies.
• Commitment to volunteerism and community involvement as demonstrated by experience volunteering in social/civil/community events and initiatives, non-profit organizations, counselling, crisis intervention. 
• Commitment to personal and professional development and in continuing training and education through ongoing learning. 
• Training and Experience operating heavy vehicles; (E.g., trucks, tractor trailers, buses.) 
• Maintains a high standard of professionalism, integrity, reliability, and credibility.
• Properly wears & uses issued uniform(s), supplied personal protective equipment and safety systems, including Self Contained Breathing Apparatus, when necessary or directed.
• Must be able to work on a 24-hour shift schedule that involves working weekends and holidays, where you will work an assigned shift averaging 42 hours per week over a four-week period.
• Knowledge of applicable health and safety legislation, including the rights and duties of workers.