Entry-level Firefighter

Under general supervision, a firefighter responds to fires, accidents and medical emergencies to protect life and property; participates in fire inspections, fire prevention activities, station maintenance and training activities; and performs related work as required.  All Seattle firefighters are either EMT or paramedic certified. Eighty percent of emergency calls received by the department are medical in nature. 

Seattle firefighters must be able to learn a wide variety of firefighting procedures, methods and operations, including the operation and maintenance of firefighting apparatus, equipment and tools. Successful firefighters must be able to learn technical principles of hydraulics and fire chemistry as applied to fire suppression. They must be able to learn and apply principles of building construction as applies to fire suppression and fire protection. They must be able to learn proper driving procedures of various fire apparatus. They must be able to perform manipulative tasks requiring manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination. They must have the physical strength and agility to perform strenuous physical work. Lastly, they must use good judgment in the application of firefighting, first aid, and other emergency techniques and procedures.