Firefighter

The job of a Firefighter is a very rewarding and challenging career. Firefighters must be able to respond quickly and coordinate their activities as an effective work team. Firefighters perform work activities in a number of areas, including, but not limited to: Fire Prevention, Building Inspections, Firefighting, Vehicle extrications, Water Rescues, Provide Basic Life Support, Hazardous Materials Mitigation, Disaster Response (catastrophic events such as tornados, floods or other disasters). Entry level Sugar Creek Firefighters must have a Missouri state EMT certification. The predominant activity of this job includes providing medical care to sick or injured individuals. This work may involve exposure to contagious disease, and at times, the unavoidable death of EMS patients or fire victims. The work requires attention to detail in carrying out emergency needs, as well as skill in communication with dignity, respect and compassion.

Firefighters encounter many challenges in fighting fires such as identifying the source of the fire, appropriate suppression techniques and search and rescue of victims. The conditions include extreme heat, smoke, and working in confined spaces with limited vision. Firefighters carry 80-100 lbs. of equipment such as axes, hoses, ladders, and chain saws. The work may include climbing many flights of stairs, and ascending and descending on ground extension ladders and fire escapes. Firefighters work at heights and in confined spaces to fight fires and rescue victims.

At the conclusion of a fire incident, Firefighters may provide a continuous fire watch presence. Members will be responsible for fire scene overhaul, including carrying out burned furniture and appliances, sweeping out and mopping up excess water, and securing the scene. When not responding to fires or emergency events, Firefighters are engaged in maintaining the fire apparatus, fire equipment and the fire station. The Sugar Creek Fire Department also maintains an active Fire Prevention program, including business and home inspections by Firefighters.

The general work schedule requires 48-hour shifts, assigned on an alternating basis with 96 hours off between shifts. While on duty, Firefighters live and sleep at the fire station. Each individual must meet the minimum qualifications shown below and submit a completed application in person for testing. Applications may be obtained from City Hall, Police and Fire Station or the link below.

Requirements: High School Graduate or GED, Valid Driver's License with positive record, Age 18+, Ability to communicate effectively in English verbally and in writing, Pass comprehensive written examination, Pass physical ability and strength test, Pass complete medical exam including vision/hearing tests, Pass psychological exam, Firefighter I Certification, Firefighter II Certification, Hazmat Awareness and Operations Certifications, Missouri State Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Certification