Recruitment

What Is a Paid-On-Call FirefighterRecruit firefighter training

A paid-on-call firefighter is a homeowner or other resident of our city who, just like you, has an interest in helping his or her neighbors whenever a fire or other natural disaster strikes. As a combination-staffed department, the Fitchburg Fire Department depends upon the timely and determined response of these citizen members who selflessly serve their community when the alarm sounds.

Under the general direction of the Fire Chief, a paid-on-call firefighter is responsible for answering calls, and extinguishing fires, protecting life and property, operating and maintaining fire equipment, apparatus and quarters. The position requires extensive training in the use of apparatus, tools, and equipment and the performance of hazardous tasks under emergency conditions, which may require strenuous exertion under such handicaps as smoke and cramped surroundings, and in the inspections of buildings for fire hazards to prevent fires from starting.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

While not all-inclusive, the following duties are normal for this position:

  • Respond to fire and other emergency calls
  • Drive and operate firefighting vehicles and equipment
  • Select hose and nozzle depending on the type of fire and direct stream of water or chemical onto fire
  • Position and climb ladders to gain access to upper levels of buildings or to assist individuals from burning structures
  • Create openings in buildings for ventilation or entrance using an ax, chisel, crowbar, smoke ejectors and power saws
  • Administer first aid and artificial respiration to injured persons and those overcome by fire and smoke
  • Communicate with supervisor during fire using portable two way radio
  • Participate in drills, demonstrations, and courses in hydraulics, pump operation and maintenance, and firefighting techniques
  • Attend training courses, read and study assigned materials related to fire prevention, suppression, rescue, training and public fire safety education
  • Perform assigned duties in maintaining apparatus, quarters, buildings, equipment, grounds, and hydrants
  • Inspect buildings for fire hazards and compliance with fire prevention ordinances
  • Issue forms to building owners listing fire regulation violations to be corrected
  • Participate in public fire safety education

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Firefighting is very heavy work. You will be exerting in excess of 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or in excess of 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or in excess of 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

The job is performed both indoors and outdoors in approximately equal amounts. Firefighters are occasionally exposed to hazards or risk of bodily injury. They are also occasionally exposed to extreme heat, extreme cold, and wet or humid conditions. There is also occasional exposure to odors, toxic conditions, dust, poor ventilation, vibrations, and moderate noise.

Minimum Requirements for a Paid-On-Call Firefighter

  • 18 years of age
  • Posses a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Live within the City of Fitchburg or within four (4) miles of a Fitchburg fire station
  • Posses a valid driver’s license issued by the State of Wisconsin
  • No felony convictions
  • Not subject to restrictions that would interfere with firefighting duties

Previous education or experience in the area of firefighting is not necessary. Successful applicants will be provided with the equipment and support needed to complete State of Wisconsin entry-level firefighting training requirements.

Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Ability to think clearly and react effectively in emergency situations
  • Ability to understand and follow oral or written instructions
  • Ability to use reason and good judgment in dealing with all kinds of people
  • Ability to climb ladders and work at considerable heights
  • Ability to work in restrictive clothing and confined spaces
  • Ability to work in hazardous environments

Application Process

Applications for the position of paid-on-call firefighter are available at the service counter at Fitchburg City Hall. They are also available on the City of Fitchburg website located here.

Completed forms should be returned to the Human Resources Manager at City Hall.

Training

If you do not have previous firefighting education, or experience, you will be provided with the equipment and support needed to complete State of Wisconsin entry-level firefighter training which is provided by the Madison Area Technical College.

Entry Level Firefighter Part 1 (30 hour course) and Entry Level Firefighter Part 2 (additional 30 hour course) introduce you to the basic knowledge and skills necessary to perform fire fighting functions under direct supervision.

Upon completion of entry level firefighter training, you will be required to complete the Fitchburg Fire Department’s New Recruit Training (approximately 20 hours). This training will cover the use of Self Contained Breathing Apparatus, Engine Company operations, Ladder Company Operations, Extrication and Radio Communications. The training culminates with a written examination and a minimum skills test.

The purpose of this training is to provide a consistent curriculum for all new recruits, to ensure all recruits are exposed to a standard set of requirements and skills, and a uniform understanding of the Department’s policies, procedures, Standard Operating Guidelines (SOGs) and evolutions prior to being authorized as a responding member of the Department.

Members are encouraged to continue their education with the Firefighter 1 Course (36 hours) which, upon successful completion of written and practical examination results in certification as a Firefighter 1. This certification is a state requirement for entry into the Certified Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator training program. Additional training is also available to those interested in officer positions.

Continuing as an Active Member of the Fire Department

Paid-on-call firefighters are expected to attend regularly scheduled training sessions throughout the year and respond to the fire stations when paged and instructed to do so (at those times when available).

Full department drills are scheduled for the first Tuesday of each month from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. During the week containing the third Tuesday of each month, a firefighter is also required to attend one of the platoon-level drills that are held from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of that week.

Paid-on-call firefighters are paid a wage of $8.50/hour for drill attendance and are encouraged to attend one full department drill and one assigned platoon-level drill each month. Using a 12-month rolling average, paid-on-call firefighters are required to attend at least 50% of the scheduled full department drills and 50% of their assigned platoon-level training.

Who to Contact

If you would like to explore this opportunity further, please contact Deputy Fire Chief Richard Roth by e-mail at richard.roth@city.fitchburg.wi.us or by calling 278-2980 and leaving a message.

You are also welcome to stop by Fitchburg Fire Station #1 in the evening of the first Tuesday of each month when firefighter training is occurring.