P
Full-time
On-site
Pueblo, CO
$68,584.80 - $92,932.56 USD yearly

DESCRIPTIVE STATEMENT:
This is a FLSA non-exempt position under direction of the Fire Chief and general supervision of the company commander.  Engages directly in the protection of life and/or property through fire prevention, basic emergency medical treatment, firefighting, rescue, and recovery activities using a variety of firefighting, emergency medical care, and emergency techniques and equipment.  Educates residents and business owners on fire safety, emergency medical prevention, and emergency preparedness.  Participates in the daily routine maintenance and cleaning of apparatus, equipment, and fire stations, as well as continuous classroom and field training programs.  Performs related work as required. 
 
This job description is an overview and is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed.  It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all the functions and tasks required of firefighters.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Responds to fire alarms as an integral part of a team assigned to one of the various types of fire apparatus in the Fire Department
Responds to emergency medical calls by operating various types of medical equipment, assessing patient condition, determining priorities for treatment, and treating a range of injuries on scene using guidelines set by physician advisor and approved Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) techniques
Responds to a variety non-fire rescue calls such as mass casualty incidents, cave-ins, industrial accidents, building collapses, explosions, auto accidents, water rescue, confined space, high angle, and hazardous material incidents
Performs strenuous tasks that include but are not limited to moving and carrying heavy objects, equipment, and/or materials; cutting or forcing open vehicles or structures; carrying or assisting victims; and climbing or crawling through confined spaces
While wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) which can include a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA), responds to fires and performs tasks at the scene such as:  quickly and thoroughly assessing the fire scene, locating fire sources and observing the progress of the fire to judge the ability and anticipate conditions requiring change of tactics; notifying occupants to vacate premises; determining safest evacuation route; providing assistance to and calming emotionally distressed or displaced persons; selecting and operating the appropriate power tools, fire extinguishers, axes, pike poles, ropes, and other fire suppression and emergency equipment; making forcible entries into vehicles, machinery, buildings or grounds to reach fire and/or free victims; laying out, connecting, and handling charged or empty hose lines at the fire scene, around obstacles, and/or up ladders; inspecting charged hose lines; managing fire hose and streams according to Department policy; positioning, securing, raising, ascending, descending, and working from ladders carrying people or equipment and using appropriate safety equipment and procedures; ventilating burning buildings by opening or forcing doors and windows, and cutting or breaking walls and roof; and performing other rescue and salvage operations to minimize loss of life and property 
Recognizes and maintains scene preservation for fire or police investigations
Takes appropriate and necessary steps to protect Fire Department and civilian property from damage or loss
Inspects buildings using the International Fire Code, discusses and resolves violations with owners or occupants, recommends corrections for unsafe conditions or practices, explains and demonstrates fire prevention methods and common fire hazards, keeps detailed and accurate inspection records, and maintains effective communication with the company commander as part of a systematic inspection program
Participates in continuous training programs deemed necessary and appropriate for the safe and effective performance of duties; listens to and participates in meetings, discussions, drills and demonstrations; participates in emergency medical training to maintain required certifications; studies and comprehends training materials, maps, diagrams, street locations, water mains, and station area hydrants; and keeps up to date on pertinent information related to firefighting
Assists in developing and providing community fire prevention and safety education classes, public presentations and demonstrations, and other related activities
Engages in timely and effective communication with other department members and superiors pertaining to shift, response, and inspection activities and makes recommendations concerning problems or concerns arising within the area of responsibility 
Demonstrates knowledge of and follows the department training standards, standard operation procedure manual, and the International Fire Code
Participates in the daily and periodic inventory, testing, inspection, maintenance, and cleaning of apparatus, tools, equipment, protective gear, fire station, and other department facilities in accordance with the assigned work schedule
Becomes familiar with all the crew assignment duties to be qualified to perform these duties when so assigned
Establishes and maintains cordial and professional relationships with members of the department, other City employees, and the general public
Performs other lawful duties and orders as prescribed by superior officers 

IMPORTANT FUNCTIONS:
May perform the duties of similar classifications of an equal or lower pay grade

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
The physical standards an employee must meet in order to perform the essential job duties with or without a reasonable accommodation include, but are not limited to:
Lifting, moving, and carrying individuals,material, and equipment weighing  up to 165 pounds
Strenuous physical activity to include the pulling/dragging or pushing of victims and objects weighing up to 165 pounds
Frequent standing and walking for prolonged periods of time to observe for safety hazards and perform daily functions
Climbing ladders, stairs, roofs, fire escapes, and high-profile emergency vehicles during normal work duties
Frequent light and firm hand grasp, fine manipulation and handling to safely use equipment and perform essential functions
Visual acuity sufficient to read operating manuals and instructions, safely operate a vehicle and equipment, identify hazards, and perform daily functions
Physical ability and endurance to efficiently and effectively perform strenuous physical labor under hazardous and stressful conditions
Frequent activities requiring a full range of body movements including sitting, bending, stooping, kneeling, squatting, crawling, twisting, and balancing

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Ability to learn and successfully perform a wide variety of firefighting duties, methods, techniques, and procedures including the use and operation of motorized equipment and apparatus  

Ability to act professionally and maintain emotional stability during hazardous, physically, and mentally stressful situations
Knowledge of CPR and other basic emergency medical procedures and techniques used to stabilize, maintain, and/or restore basic life functions, as well as the usage and application of a variety of medical supplies, drugs, and equipment used for medical emergency and rescue situations
Ability to interpret and follow a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form
Ability to exercise independent judgment, make fast and lucid decisions, and adapt quickly to changing situations while handling emergencies
Skill and ability to work as an integral part of a team
Skill and ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and provide excellent customer service to department members, other City employees, and the general public
Ability to use standard office equipment, personal computer, and job-related computer applications including electronic mail and other software programs
Skill and ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing
Ability to learn City streets, buildings, and the general geography of the City
Ability to work successfully with and provide good customer service to supervisors, other City employees, the public, and other agencies 
Ability to perform all the job duties in a safe manner


MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

In addition to the knowledge, skills and abilities listed above, this position requires the following:
High school diploma or GED equivalent at time of application
At least 19 years of age on or before the date of the written examination
Must have and maintain a valid CPAT certification at time of interviewCity of Pueblo will offer CPAT testing for eligible candidates prior to interviews 
Valid CPAT certifications from other IAFF-authorized agencies will be accepted


A valid driver’s license at the time of application, and a valid Colorado driver’s license within 30 days of employmentLicense restrictions that may hinder your ability to drive on City business, such as an interlock, will be cause for disqualification 
During the course of employment, a valid license must be maintained, and the employee must notify the City immediately upon changes to the status of their license


CPAT INFORMATION:
The City of Pueblo will provide CPAT orientation, practice, and testing for eligible candidates. This certification is offered free-of-cost and is valid only for the City of Pueblo.  A passing score of the Pueblo CPAT or a valid CPAT certificate from an IAFF-authorized agency will enable candidates to be admitted to the interview.  CPAT certifications are valid for 12 months.  City of Pueblo eligibility lists are certified for 24 months.   Pueblo will offer a CPAT certification for eligible candidates prior to each round of interviews conducted throughout the life of the eligibility list.  All candidates are responsible for maintaining a valid CPAT throughout entire selection process.
 
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:
Firefighters are required to work 24-hour shift assignments, living, eating, and sleeping at the station for the entire period, including weekends and holidays, and may be required to work overtime with little or no notice.  Individuals perform strenuous physical activity during daylight and night hours for extended periods with little rest or sleep. Firefighters may operate in all weather conditions, natural disasters, extreme heat or cold, dense smoke, close proximity to fire, toxic or explosive atmospheres, extreme heights, structurally weakened buildings, traffic hazards, and hazardous medical emergencies.  Individuals may be required to wear and work in fire department PPE and/or including breathing apparatus for extended periods of time. 
Successful candidates will be given an employment offer contingent on passing the following:
Comprehensive background investigation which includes a criminal, driving, employment, and reference checks
Psychological evaluation
Medical evaluation and drug screen

As a condition of continued employment, all Firefighters are required to:
Obtain a valid State of Colorado EMT Basic certificate prior the end of the probationary period
Maintain active status with the designated Pueblo Fire Department Medical Advisor
Be willing to participate in an ongoing physical fitness program


Unless otherwise indicated, all required licenses and certifications must be maintained throughout the term of employment.  Failure to obtain or maintain the required licenses and certifications may result in demotion or termination.

Due to Federal and State Criminal Justice System access requirements, classifications that access and maintain criminal justice information may also be required, as a condition of employment, to not have been convicted of and/or have pending charges of a felony or misdemeanor crime that would deny or otherwise restrict access to criminal justice information.  This requirement applies to all existing City employees as well as external candidates seeking to fill positions that meet the given criteria.

BENEFITS:         
The City of Pueblo offers a very rich benefits packet! Click on the “Benefits” hyperlink at the top of this (online) job posting to view a summary of the benefits associated with this position. For a more comprehensive view on the lush benefits offered by the City, please go to www.pueblo.us/benefits.  

CIVIL SERVICE EXAM:  August 12/13 2025
Please note that the Civil Service Commission may use a Training & Experience (T&E) evaluation of your application to establish an eligibility list for this classification.