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Firefighter Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

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A Firefighter, or Fireman/Firewoman saves and protects people from fires and other dangers. Their duties include extinguishing fires, educating the public about fire prevention and responding to emergency medical situations.

Firefighter duties and responsibilities

A Firefighter has a wide range of tasks that will vary daily. They need to be prepared for high-pressure situations and methodological problem-solving tasks. Their main responsibilities and duties include: 

  • Inspecting, cleaning and maintaining equipment
  • Carrying out practice drills and training new employees
  • Rescuing people from burning buildings and accident sites
  • Controlling and putting out fires
  • Analysing dangerous situations and determining the best course of action
  • Providing medical assistance at accident sites
  • Inspecting buildings to ensure they meet safety regulations
  • Giving presentations about fire safety to different community groups

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Firefighter Job Description Examples:

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Indeed’s Employer Resource Library helps businesses grow and manage their workforce. With over 15,000 articles in 6 languages, we offer tactical advice, how-tos and best practices to help businesses hire and retain great employees.

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What does a Firefighter do?

A Firefighter is a figure of safety within a community. They respond to fires at homes and other premises, rescuing people from buildings and putting out fires. They also respond to medical emergencies and are trained and qualified to provide minor, urgent medical care. They also play an educating role, ensuring the public is aware of different fire prevention methods. They may host outreach events within the community.

Firefighter skills and qualifications

Firefighters should posses high emotional intelligence, have quick decision-making skills and be able to assess dangerous situations. A successful Firefighter candidate will have various prerequisite skills and qualifications that typically include:

  • Ability to remain calm in extremely stressful situations
  • Sensitivity and understanding
  • Excellent verbal communication skills
  • Teamwork skills
  • Ability to work well under pressure and accept constructive criticism
  • Excellent customer service skills
  • Thorough attention to detail
  • Ability to meet physically demanding requirements

Firefighter experience requirements

Although this is a very specific job, there are a few ways for applicants to gain experience in this field. Some applicants may have volunteered or worked in a support role at an emergency call centre. Some people can prepare by completing a Level 2 Certificate in Fire and Rescue Services in the Community. This is a course run by local fire services that teaches the importance of fire prevention. Applicants must be physically fit and able to complete a variety of physical tests in order to apply for this position.

Firefighter education and training requirements

While some applicants may have taken a Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Public Services course, this is usually not necessary when applying to a Firefighter position. Most applicants will have applied directly to the fire service, which requires some GCSEs at grades 9 to 4, including maths and English. The fire service requires all applicants to pass an online test accessing their judgement ability as well as a number and reading test. Finally, they are given a practical selection test that accesses the physical skills needed for the job. Once these tests are complete and passed, an applicant can apply for a job.

Firefighter salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Firefighter in the UK is £2,637 per month. Salary is dependent on experience, location and company.

Job description samples for similar positions

If this job does not fit the description of the job that is being advertised, here are some positions similar to a Firefighter:

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Firefighter job description FAQs

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