To be considered for this position in the Renton Fire & Emergency Services Department, applicants are asked to apply through Public Safety Testing (PST) to complete an application and schedule a written exam and a physical test (CPAT). A cost is associated with the testing administered by PST. Candidates must successfully pass both the written exam and the CPAT by March 31, 2013, in order to be eligible for this position. For more information, or to apply, visit PST’s website at: http://www.publicsafetytesting.com

Under the direction of an assigned supervisor, perform firefighting work in combating, extinguishing and preventing fires and in the maintenance of firefighting equipment, apparatus and quarters; protect life and property through firefighting activities, first aid and fire equipment operations. Work also involves responding to and dealing with man-made and natural disasters that pose a threat to public safety.

HOURS OF WORK:
Work 24-hour shifts, for an average of 46.6 hour work week.

Representative Duties, Knowledge, and Abilities:

  • Ride and drive fire equipment to alarms; place equipment; lay and connect hose and nozzles and direct water streams; raise and climb ladders; use chemical fire extinguishers, bars, safety belts and lines, and other tools and equipment. *Ventilate burning structures by opening windows and other apertures; perform salvage operations such as placing salvage covers and removing water and debris. *Remove persons from danger and administer first aid as required. *Participate in fire drills and attend classes in firefighting, disaster response, hydraulics, first aid and fire equipment construction and operation. *Receive and respond to fire calls and alarms; operate radio and other communication equipment in dispatching fire equipment; maintain a log of all activities. *Participate in fire company inspections of buildings and other structures in departmental fire prevention program. *Complete all necessary forms and paperwork and maintain accurate records as designated or required. *Perform general maintenance work of fire suppression facilities; clean and wash walls, floors and windows; make minor repairs to departmental property; hang and dry hose; clean, polish and test equipment. *Perform related work as outlined in the Fire Department Standard Operating Procedures. *Remain current with relevant technological advancements as it relates to field. *Denotes an essential function.

KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES: KNOWLEDGE OF:

Modern methods, principles, techniques and practices applied to firefighting, fire inspection, natural or man-made disasters and related fields.

Basic mechanical and operating principles involved in the operation and maintenance of firefighting equipment.
Hazards of chemical properties of a variety of materials.
Geography and street locations of the city including construction, hazards, built-in protective devices in all buildings, including control points for public utilities.

Salvage and overhaul operations and methods.

Hand and power tools used in maintenance, construction and demolition.

Operation of ladders, trucks and mechanical equipment.
Traffic laws, ordinances and regulations involving equipment operation.

Principles and practices of first aid including EMT training or advanced first aid.

Federal Communications Commission rules and regulations applicable to radio communications.

Principles of electricity, chemistry and municipal building codes.

Fire prevention methods and fire safety.

Principles of basic building construction. ABILITY TO:
-Use firefighting tools and equipment competently.
-Operate and control heavy-duty fire apparatus.
-Analyze dangerous situations rapidly and accurately and take a reasonable course of action.
-Perform hose and ladder evolutions and apparatus operations.
-Use a variety of first aid equipment, first aid procedures and lifting techniques.
-Memorize streets, numbers, location of hydrants, buildings and routes in the city.
-Read and interpret maps, plans and diagrams.
-Perform emergency work of all kinds under adverse, strenuous physical conditions.
-Take accurate readings, keep routine records and make minor mechanical repairs and adjustments.
-React quickly and calmly in stressful and hazardous situations.
-Enforce laws and ordinances with firmness, tact and impartiality.
-Inspect and detect violations and hazards in dwelling and other buildings and make proper recommendations for the correction of findings through company inspections.
-Maintain harmonious working relationships with co-workers.
-Make moderately complex mathematical computations including hydraulic pressures and angles.
-Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
-Perform physically demanding firefighting skills and duties including, but not limited to carrying and manipulating hose, ladders and rescue equipment.
-Assume the duties and responsibilities of Lieutenant when assigned.
-Perform those tasks as outlined in the King County EMT Program as certified by the State of Washington.
-Perform a variety of firefighting skills and duties.
-Carry and manipulate hose, ladders, monitors and other firefighting equipment.
-Lift firefighting equipment and rescue people.
-Carry, raise, manipulate and climb a variety of fire department ladders.
-Use firefighting tools and equipment.
-Extricate victims from various circumstances and incidents.
-Operate light and heavy mechanical equipment and tools.
-Endure severe physical discomfort for long periods of time while performing necessary firefighting tasks.
-Understand and execute specific order or instructions.
-Evaluate conditions making it necessary to deviate from normal standards and to make necessary decisions to do so.
-Work in the face of real and potential personal danger to the extent of possible loss of life.
-Recall facts and conditions observed while under severe physical and emotional stress.
-Remain current with emerging technologies as they relate to field of specialty.

Education, Experience, and Other Requirements:
Graduation from a standard high school, vocational school or equivalent.

LICENSES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
-Valid Washington State driver’s license at time of hire
-Must be at least 18 years of age at time of examination
-Must be a citizen of the United States and able to read and write the English language as specified in RCW 41
-Ability to mentally and physically perform the described duties and/or tasks
-Must have successfully passed the PST Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) within 6 months of the written examination test date. Both the written examination and CPAT must be completed March 31, 2013
-Ability to successfully pass entrance examination and meet the minimum medical and health standards adopted by the Civil Service Commission
-Must be able to pass a background investigation prior to hire
-Must be certified as a King County EMT-B within first year of employment
*Must be an International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC) or National Professional Qualifications Board (ProBoard) certified Firefighter 1 through the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1001 within first year of employment
-Required to participate in the Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (JATC) and sign a written agreement to that effect

WORKING CONDITIONS: Work may require the performance of hazardous tasks for long periods of time in emergency conditions requiring strenuous physical exertion under such conditions as considerable heights, cramped surroundings, and in hot and smoky environments with limited visibility.

Selection Procedure:
To be considered for this position in the Renton Fire & Emergency Services Department, applicants are asked to apply through Public Safety Testing (PST) to complete an application and schedule a written exam and a physical test (CPAT). A cost is associated with the testing administered by PST. Candidates must successfully pass both the written exam and the CPAT by March 31, 2013, in order to be eligible for this position. For more information, or to apply, visit PST’s website at: http://www.publicsafetytesting.com

Applicants will take the written test and physical test (CPAT) through Public Safety Testing (PST). The CPAT test is a pass/fail exam. The written test will require a minimum passing score of 70%. Only top passing candidates will be invited to participate in the oral interview process. The oral interview will be worth 100% of the final score and will require a minimum score of 70% in order to be placed on the eligibility list. The eligibility list will be valid for one (1) year.