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Firefighter - Airport

Employer
City of Fargo
Location
Fargo, North Dakota
Salary
$15.93 - $16.88 Hourly

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Job Details

POSITION DESCRIPTION: This position is located within the Hector International Airport (HIAP) Fire Department under general administrative direction of the Municipal Airport Authority. The Firefighter under direct supervision of the Assistant Chief serves as a team member to carry out fire suppression and rescue, medical emergency response, fire prevention and hazardous material emergency response activities. The Firefighter also performs various maintenance activities on fire equipment and fire station facilities. The purpose of the position is to prevent, control and extinguish all types of fires and to perform related crash and rescue operations, including Emergency Medical Responder techniques, hazardous materials (HazMat) response, and property preservation. This includes fires, or the potential of fires, involving aircraft and operational processes located at Hector International Airport.

Scope of Responsibility:
Work performed is considerably hazardous and requires the firefighter to follow instructions provided by superiors and to draw upon the extensive training and/or experience they receive on-the-job to make quick judgments in extremely volatile situations. The firefighter is responsible for care and safe operation of department equipment of a high monetary value. This position is an operational firefighting position and will require the incumbent to crew an A.R.F.F. apparatus and require the incumbent to participate in hot zone activities during emergency operations. 
  PRIMARY RESPONSIBLITIES: Essential duties may include any of the following tasks, knowledge, skills and other characteristics. The list that follows, while extensive, is not intended as a comprehensive list; it is intended to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed, and may be required to perform additional task not listed below.

1. Performs all job duties in compliance with safety guidelines and with an ongoing awareness of safety practices:

1.1. Knows and follows department and airport rules as well as sound work and safety practices in order to accomplish the job objectives and avoid injury or loss;
1.2. Wears proper protective equipment including Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) when policy requires or conditions indicate a need exists and utilizes proper body mechanics and ergonomics while performing work;
1.3. When potentially unsafe conditions are observed makes efforts to avoid or correct them if they are controllable and draws them to the attention of the responsible supervisor or safety representative in a timely manner;
1.4. Conducts routine and emergency duties in a safe manner and not expose self or others to unsafe acts or warranted jeopardy; includes safe handling and care of equipment;
1.5. Must understand the requirements and personal responsibilities of the Firefighter Safety program as defined in NFPA 1500;
1.6. Follow established internal control/review programs, which ensure funds, property and other assets, are safeguarded from fraud, waste, abuse and mismanagement.
1.7. Performs physical fitness training every shift, in accordance with local requirements;


2. Responds to emergency and non-emergency calls for service including aircraft airborne emergencies, crashes, fires, medical injuries and illness, hazardous materials spills, aircraft extrication, and other situations, and carries out specific assigned duties such as connecting hoses, operating equipment, emergency vehicle driving and turret operations, positioning of ladders, rescuing victims, and administering first aid;

2.1. Responds to a variety of emergency calls for service to include fire, medical, hazardous materials, high explosives, and other incidents involving aircraft and/or tenant services
2.2. Serves as a crewmember in the control and extinguishment of fires involving various types and sizes of aircraft, to include large complex aircraft;

2.2.1. These fires involve such operational conditions as the presence of large volumes of fuel, highly flammable or explosive cargo, hazardous materials, complex aircraft design making rescue extremely difficult, and/or aircraft carrying approximately 100 passengers whose lives are in immediate danger;
2.2.2. Performs rescue, firefighting, and salvage operations during all fires;

2.3. Performs immediate forcible entry rescue into distressed or burning aircraft;
2.4. Operates or deactivates specialized mechanisms and systems such as aircraft evacuation slides, ballistic parachutes and oxygen supply systems;
2.5. Shuts down running aircraft;
2.6. Uses aircraft cut-in and penetration points;
2.7. Uses specialized tools developed for a particular mechanism;
2.8. Crews Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting apparatus of different capabilities depending on fire department crew strengths at any given time;
2.9. Operates fire and emergency response vehicles and equipment in response to fire and rescue calls;

2.9.1. The incumbent will regularly crew an A.R.F.F. apparatus;

2.10. Performs aircraft rescue firefighting and emergency medical services as needed

2.10.1. Responds to medical emergencies and perform BLS skills until ALS personnel arrive to assume patient care; Performs rescue/medical work to the Emergency Medical Responder level

2.10.2. Uses Infectious Disease Control and Bloodborne Pathogens checklists and control measures including appropriate level of personal protective clothing (PPE);

2.11. When assigned as a driver, the firefighter is responsible for ensuring equipment is on apparatus, in working order, and ready for emergency calls; drives and operates fire apparatus including placement of apparatus, operation of pump and turrets, etc.;

2.11.1. Positions and maneuvers apparatus considering all factors from operational efficiency, purpose of equipment, and safety involved in fire control, rescue and other aspects of scene management;
2.11.2. Assures that self-contained tanks are operating properly and delivering water and/or other agents (Foam / Dry Chemical) to lines or mounted equipment;

2.11.3. Assures that pressure is maintained and that firefighting crews are alerted when water and other extinguishing agents are being exhausted;
2.11.4. Resupplies firefighting vehicles

2.12. Operates Crash Fire Rescue (CFR) equipment such as pumps, generators, nozzles, handlines, turrets, hooks, Jaws of Life, airbags, fire extinguishers, axes, bars (crowbar, pry-bar), and a variety of air, hydraulic, gasoline or electrically powered hand tools;

2.13. Sets up a triage area and a firefighter rehabilitation area;
2.14. Performs standby operations for medevac and unusual aircraft traffic conditions;
2.15. Performs confinement and other operations level actions dealing with hazardous materials;
2.16. Performs standby operations for scheduled medivacs and unusual aircraft traffic conditions;
2.17. Performs entry into aircraft in order to rescue personnel or recover equipment;
2.18. Gathers information for submittal to supervisors in the accomplishment of after-actions reports, debriefs, and training reports; submits fire department information using applicable reporting mechanism and procedures on a daily basis as assigned.


3. Maintains a knowledge and record of federal, state and municipal requirements for fire/crash rescue procedures as well as safety education material and fire prevention practices.

3.1. Maintains a general knowledge of FAR, Part 139 rules and regulations pertaining to ARFF, as well as all Circular Advisory and CertAlerts pertaining to Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting;
3.2. Maintains a general knowledge of National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards applicable to airport firefighting;
3.3. Gathers in after-action reports, debriefs, and training reports; disseminates gathered information to Fire Department senior leadership;


4. Conducts fire prevention inspections of fueling systems and fuel storage tanks in use on Hector International Airport property, to include tenant services provided on the airport property in accordance with airport self-inspection requirements;

4.1. Identifies deficiencies, completes appropriate paperwork, references appropriate governing code or regulation, and notes explanations for tenant owners;
4.2. Initiates corrective action according to established procedures;
4.3. Conducts follow-up inspections and forwards violations to appropriate governing agency.


5. Performs regular airport self-inspections of major areas, including runways. taxiways, ramps, aircraft, paved areas, safety areas, marking and lighting, entry/exit points, security fencing, and wildlife activities;

5.1. Conducts regular self-inspections of the Airport Operations Area (AOA) to include airfield runways, taxiways, ramps, safety areas, marking and lighting, and security to ensure compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules and regulations as required to by local authorities;
5.2. Conducts "braking action" (friction) tests and reports results to senior fire officers for dissemination of reports to FAA and airport users when conditions warrant as required by to local authorities;

5.3. Monitors runway surface conditions and weather conditions and reports conditions to senior fire officers to coordinate the issuance and cancellation of NOTAMs (Notice to Airmen) and other airfield safety and operations notification requirements as required to by local authorities;
5.4. Conducts perimeter gate and mutual aid entry location inspections to ensure operability of all gates and entry/exit locations. Particular attention will be given during winter operations to ensure all locks, card boxes and mechanisms are operable. Also ensures that roads associated with access gates are serviceable and clear of any obstructions that could impede a possible off-airport response;

5.5. Participates in Wildlife Hazard Management Programs as required to by local authorities.


6. Maintains equipment and facility in a state of readiness and performs maintenance to prolong the useful life of the equipment and facility:

6.1. Performs routine inspections of ARFF vehicles, equipment and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) according to established checklists and equipment logs;
6.2. Performs routine checks of equipment such as generators and air compressors, and records condition;
6.3. Performs general fire station building and grounds maintenance as required;
6.4. Cleans, polishes, waxes, oils, greases and otherwise services firefighting vehicles and equipment routinely and following use in order to remove corrosive dirt, salt, etc. from equipment;
6.5. Performs routine maintenance of equipment, including vehicles, pumps, hoses, hand tools and specialized equipment;

6.6. Maintains personal protective gear and requests replacements when the functionality of the equipment is compromised;
6.7. Ensures all communications equipment, whether vehicle mounted or portable, are in serviceable condition, working as intended, and ready for use;
6.8. Properly uses and cares for firefighting apparatus and equipment;
6.9. Performs general housekeeping duties.


7. Participates in and/or conducts training exercises, demonstrations and instruction to prepare for emergency situations:

7.1. Participates in all Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and locally required training instructional sessions/events;
7.2. Maintains proficiency in Crash Rescue, Hazardous Materials, Medical, Firefighter Safety, and all related industry standards through classroom instruction, hands-on proficiency training and formal schools;
7.3. Provides on-the-job training, mentoring, and some work direction to new firefighters; 7.4. Trains peers on any specialized training received;
7.5. Conducts classes from prepared lesson plans;
7.6. Maintains constant awareness of the frequent changes in cockpit design and cabin layouts to determine how they affect rescue operations.

7.7. Conducts training for Hector International Airport Fire Department personnel and other airport employees and tenants as needed.


8. Performs public relations and educational activities:

8.1. Conducts fire station tours;


9. Communicates courteously and professionally and maintains working relationships with others in carrying out job functions:

9.1. Communications include responsibility for maintaining relationships that are key to the Fire Department;

9.1.1. Regularly communicate with Fargo ATC in a professional and knowledgeable manner;

9.1.2. Knowledgeable in the frequencies utilized by the Hector International Fire Department, the Fargo ATC, and Hector Airport maintenance personnel as well as mutual aid partners and other agencies in the surrounding area;
9.1.3. Utilizes common terminology and Incident Command Systems (ICS) communication principles in all emergency communications;

9.1.4. Understands the ICAO International phonetic alphabet and common aviation terminology.

9.2. Frequently interacts with others in the workplace, the public, vendors, or other departments to exchange detailed and/or technical information;
9.3. Maintains good relationships with peers, supervisors, other personnel and the public; 9.4. Establishes a good working climate and strives to achieve personal and agency goals;
9.5. Maintains vehicle status logbook
9.6. Maintains and accurate written and automated activity log of all significant daily events, processes, or notifications received through the dispatch center;
9.7. Maintains knowledge of non-verbal communication used on the Airfield Operations Area (AOA), i.e. hand signals, Air Traffic Control (ATC) light gun signals and firefighter emergency withdraw signals;

9.8. Accomplishes all Alarm Room operations;


10. Employees are subject to call-in 24 hours a day and will be required to maintain a reliable communication link (telephone or pager) for the purpose of emergency call back requirements.

10.1. The incumbent will retain the ability to respond to the airport 24 hours a day and 7 days a week, within a reasonable time period, during inclement weather and/or emergency conditions.


11. Performs other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Controls: 
The firefighter works under the direct supervision of the Assistant Chief or through subordinate supervision by the Lead Firefighter. Work is reviewed by observation, results of training and on-scene accomplishments. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Education, Experience, and Licenses:
• Two year Associates Degree or related specialized training;
• Minimum of one (1) year of experience as a certified Firefighter II and Airport Firefighter;
• Possess a valid state driver's license

Certifications: 
Fire Fighter I (IFSAC or Pro-Board)
Fire Fighter II (IFSAC or Pro-Board)
Driver / Operator - A.R.F.F. (IFSAC or Pro-Board)
Airport Firefighter (IFSAC or Pro-Board)
HazMat Awareness & Operations (IFSAC or Pro-Board)
C.P.R. Certification (American Heart Association)
Emergency Medical Responder Training (State Certified or NREMT)
ICS Courses 100, 200, 700, & 800 (FEMA)

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
• Knowledge of principles, theories and concepts of current aircraft firefighting, rescue, HazMat and emergency medical methods and ability to apply this knowledge to a variety of situations;
• Skill in working independently or as a member of a team;
• Skill in performing fire suppression and emergency response activities including operating and maintenance of various firefighting equipment;
• Requires a strong knowledge of aircraft design and positioning of exits, cargoes, fuels, explosives, batteries, switches, operation and location of canopy actuators and seat mechanisms and aircraft procedures;
• Ability to operate on the Airfield Operations Area (AOA) and perform field checks and other general airport operation duties;
• Must have the ability to correct equipment malfunction under actual fire conditions and exercise initiative and resourcefulness in the use and protection of equipment under severe stress;
• Skill in interpreting laws and regulations, decision making, maintaining composure, and working effectively under stressful conditions and emergency situations;
Skill in following and effectively communicating verbal and written instructions;
• Must have specific knowledge of firefighting equipment by location and their immediate availability, location of facilities, fuel storage and aircraft parking, mutual aid agreements, preparedness plans for aircraft accidents and disasters and pertinent radio code signals and call signs. Must be able to speak clearly, distinctly and in an understandable manner; • Skill in the operation of specialized fire and emergency equipment, heavy equipment and vehicles;
• Skill in operating motorized equipment and vehicles during emergency, high risk situations;
• Knowledge of local, state and federal laws, regulations and codes and national standards relating to fire protection activities;
• Knowledge of applicable federal aviation regulations;
• Skill in analyzing complex information and solving complex problems involving large amounts of information;
• Skill in communication, effective interpersonal skills as applied to interaction with coworkers, supervisors, the general public, etc. sufficient to exchange or convey information and to give and receive work direction;
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, make decisions with confidence, show initiative, take ownership of assigned projects, follow verbal and written instructions and communicate effectively verbally and in writing;
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others;
• Must have a basic understanding of Critical Incident Stress Management;
• Skill in Incident Command System; ability to apply ICS concepts and theories;
• Must understand basic hazard and risk assessment techniques;
• Ability to participate in department wellness/fitness program and to pass annual fitness evaluation/testing;
• Ability to maintain physical conditioning to successfully perform ARFF duties and emergency extraction;
• Skill in operating a personal computer and software applications;
• Ability to work irregular hours, weekends, evenings and holidays as needed PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Physical Demands & Working Conditions:

• Work is performed in internal and external environments with exposure to inclement weather, and varying temperatures
• May be exposed to hazardous chemicals, infectious and communicable diseases and potential physical harm in response to firefighting or other emergency rescue calls.
• Must retain the ability to respond to the airport 24 hours a day and 7 days a week, within a reasonable time period, during inclement weather and/or emergency conditions.
• Position is subject to both inside and outside environmental conditions, extreme cold, extreme heat, noise, vibration, hazards, atmospheric conditions, and oils.
• Physical demands are normally those associated with light work and can include activities such as standing, walking, sitting, hearing/listening, talking, and lifting objects 50 pounds or lighter. Periods of greater activity and physical exertion can be expected including such activities as bending, ascending and descending ladders, reaching, kneeling, running, lifting over 100 pounds, and other duties associated with firefighting operations. Incumbent occasionally could be exposed to austere conditions: elevated temperatures, highly stressful situations, chaotic environments, etc.


Physical Activities

  • Climbing -  Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, ramps and the like, using feet and legs and/or hands and arms. Body agility is emphasized. This factor is important if the amount and kind of climbing required exceeds that required for ordinary locomotion.
  • Stooping/ Bending -  Bending body downward and forward by bending spine at the waist. This factor is important if it occurs to a considerable degree and requires full use of the lower extremities and back muscles.
  • Hand-Arm Manipulation /Reaching -  Manual control or manipulation of objects through hand and/or arm movements, which may or may not require continuous visual control.
  • Standing - Particularly for sustained periods of time.
  • Walking - Moving about on foot to accomplish tasks, particularly for long distances.
  • Pushing - Using upper extremities to exert force in order to draw, drag, haul or tug objects in a sustained motion.
  • Lifting - Raising objects from a lower to a higher position or moving objects horizontally from position-to-position. This factor is important if it occurs to a considerable degree and requires the substantial use of the upper extremities and back muscles.
  • Repetitive Motions - Substantial movements (motions) of the wrist, hands, and/or fingers.
  • Finger Manipulation - Making careful finger movements in various types of activities; picking, pinching, typing or otherwise working, primarily with fingers rather than with the whole hand or arm as in handling; usually hand and arm are not involved to any great extent.
  • Eye-hand/ Foot Coordination - The coordination of hand and/or foot movements where the movement must be coordinated with what is seen.
  • Grasping - Applying pressure to an object with the fingers and palm.
  • Feeling - Perceiving attributes of objects, such as size, shape, temperature or texture by touching with skin, particularly that of fingertips.
  • Talking - Expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word. Those activities in which they must convey detailed or important spoken instructions to other workers accurately, loudly, or quickly.
  • Hearing - Ability to receive detailed information through oral communications.


Visual and Sound Requirements

  • Near - visual  Differential - Seeing things within arms' reach.
  • Far-visual Differential - Seeing differences in the details of objects, events or features beyond arms' reach.
  • Depth Perception -  Judging the distance from observer to objects, or distances between objects in space.
  • Color Perception - Differentiating or identifying objects, materials, or details thereof on the basis of color.
  • Sound Pattern - Recognition Recognizing different patterns, or sequences of sound.
  • Sound Differential - Recognizing differences in sounds in terms of their loudness, pitch, and/or tone quality.


 

Company

Vision

We to be an employer of choice through collaboration, engagement, and development in order to deliver an exceptional career experience for the people serving the great City of Fargo.

Values

We will respect each other and all stakeholders by delivering honest and empathetic customer service. We commit to develop and maintain a culture that values the health, safety, and equitable treatment of all stakeholders.

Company info
Website
Telephone
701-241-1321
Location
225 4th Street North
Fargo
ND
58102
United States

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