Firefighter Job Description

What is the job description of a Firefighter? What are the duties and responsibilities of a Firefighter? What does a Firefighter do?

Job description of a Firefighter

Firefighters are primarily responsible for responding to fires, accidents and other incidents where potential or actual risks are posed to life and/or property. Generally, firefighters protect citizens during emergencies caused by fire. The do so by extinguishing fires, executing rescues and mitigating chemical spills.

This Firefighter job description example includes the list of most important Firefighter duties and responsibilities as shown below. It can be modified to fit the specific Firefighter profile you're trying to fill as a recruiter or job seeker.

Firefighter Duties and Responsibilities

Firefighter job description should contain a variety of functions and roles including:

  • Using sophisticated firefighting and rescue equipment
  • Promoting fire safety via talks, advice and training sessions
  • Working with police and ambulance service personnel
  • Checking and maintaining vehicles, equipment, hydrants and water supplies.
  • Enforcing safety standards in commercial and residential properties
  • Undertaking physical and academic training
  • Demonstrating the use of firefighting equipment

Firefighter Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

Firefighter job description should include these common skills and qualifications:

  • High school diploma or higher; degree in fire science is a plus
  • Certification as emergency medical technicians (EMT) is preferred
  • Proven experience as firefighter
  • Working knowledge of firefighting equipment and apparatus
  • Knowledge of first aid/CPR methods
  • A practical mind and problem-solving ability
  • Successful passing of firefighting exams (written, physical, psychological etc.)
  • Willingness to follow legal rules and guidelines and firefighting standards at all times
  • Great physical strength and stamina partnered with the ability to dress and move quickly
  • Patient and cool tempered with the ability to function in a team
  • Dedicated and compassionate

As a hiring manager, recruiting an ideal Firefighter starts with crafting a good job description. Use this Firefighter job description template to save yourself time and help you attract the most qualified candidates. Feel free to revise it to meet your specific needs.

Job seekers interviewing for the role of a Firefighter may also reference it in preparation for the interview.