Job Description

Posting number: 26/27-02086

Department: FIRE

Division: EMERGENCY OPERATIONS

Job classification: FIREFIGHTER - RECRUIT

Posting type: Open

Categories: Fire & EMS, Safety, EMS

Summary

The purpose of this position is to learn the essential skills to perform firefighting, rescue, and emergency medical services to protect the life and property of the citizens and visitors of Chapel Hill. Recruits will be required to complete an academy to gain their emergency medical technician certification as well as their firefighter certification.

This classification has been designated as Safety Sensitive and is subject to random drug and alcohol testing. FLSA- Non-Exempt, Essential Employee.

Note: Certified firefighters are also welcome to apply. The salary will be commensurate with the appropriate experience and skills.

Hiring Timeline

Application Review

December 1 - 2, 2026

Physical Agility Test

Week of December 7, 2026

Panel Interviews

Week of December 14, 2026

Conditional Offers

Week of January 4, 2027

Academy Start Date

February 1, 2027

Examples of duties

What you can expect to be doing:

After the completion of the academy, a recruit will possess the cognitive and psychomotor skills to:

• Perform fire control and rescue operations by operating hose lines, ventilating techniques, connecting to water systems by locating hydrants or other sources for water; forcing entry into structures; using systematic search procedures to find occupants; and assisting with fire investigations.
• Provide emergency medical services as an Emergency Medical Technician; evaluate and administer care for based on Orange County Medical Protocols; provide life support; maintain EMS equipment and supplies; and maintain required certifications.
• Provide highly specialized rescue and/or firefighting services such as swift water rescue, hazardous materials response, and technical rescue; perform decontamination procedures; participate in drills; demonstrate consistent and thorough knowledge of specialized area; and maintain required certifications.
• Maintain equipment and facilities by performing daily readiness checks and preventive maintenance; testing fire equipment; maintain facility’s outdoor appearance; perform weekly equipment checks; and checking hydrants.
• Assist with special events and weather-related incidents; educate the public on fire and life safety; educate the public on child safety seats; visit schools and provide education about fire safety procedures and prevention; oversee fire extinguisher classes; maintain necessary certifications and training.
• All other duties as assigned.

What are the physical demands?

The work typically requires intermittent standing, stooping, climbing, crawling, heavy lifting and carrying. The person must pass a physical fitness test. The employee uses equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity and strength.

Where and how do you work?

The work is typically performed in a variety of environments and locations involving high heat, extreme temperatures, difficult terrain, and varying heights, confined spaces, limited visibility, and hazardous atmospheres. Work environments include fire stations, vehicle, and at emergency scenes.

Qualifications

What do you need to know to do this job effectively?

Knowledge of (after completion of initial training):

• Firefighting and rescue techniques;
• Fire apparatus and equipment;
• Fire attack techniques and fire streams;
• Department rules, regulations, policies, and procedures;
• Streets and other local geography;
• Hazardous materials;
• Fire suppression techniques;
• Operation and use of fire equipment and apparatus;
• Rescue and extrication techniques;
• Radio usage and procedure;
• Community Risk Reduction and instructional practices
• Skill in oral and written communication.

Ability to:

• Read and comprehend;
• Perform mathematical problem solving;
• Write at a business and technical level.
• Work successfully in a team environment and in high stress situations

What education and/or experience do you need to be considered for this job?

Education

Must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma, GED, or high school equivalency from an accredited educational institution.

Experience

None

Supplemental information

What are the safety considerations for this job?

You will be subject to the Town’s Safe Driving and Accident Policy.

This life safety position operates in dangerous environments. The safety of our firefighting professionals as they execute their duties is our top priority. This department operates with strict safety protocols at all times.

Here is other information you should know about the position:

• North Carolina Class C Driver’s License, or an equivalent from your state of residency is required
• Must meet medical requirements set forth in National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1582
• This position is safety sensitive and subject to random drug and alcohol testing.