Firefighter

As an integral member of the Ottawa Fire Services’ (OFS) emergency response team, Firefighters provide emergency response services in order to protect the lives, property and environment for the citizens of and visitors to the City of Ottawa. Immediately, responds and performs all emergency scene duties, such as, but not limited to: firefighting, forcible entry, search and rescue, emergency medical aid and CPR, vehicle extrication, technical rescue operations, hazardous materials operations, and securing the emergency scene for the safety of the public and members of OFS. Functions/operates under a command structure as an effective and supportive team member at all emergencies from small scale incidents to large scale disasters. Operates at height, in confined spaces, and in uncontrolled environments, including those that are immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH). Drives/operates any apparatus/vehicles in accordance with policy and Highway Traffic Act (HTA) and operates and uses all Ottawa Fire Services equipment, such as pumps, hoses, ground ladders, aerial apparatus platforms & ladders, generators, vehicle and equipment extrication tools, etc. Completes in-station duties and tasks, including: cleaning, inspections, testing & documentation of all inventory and equipment used, returns all equipment used to a state of readiness, as well as, regular maintenance of City of Ottawa property and grounds. On a daily basis, cleans, inspects, maintains and performs safety checks on equipment and apparatus while maintaining a clean and orderly fire station. Completes all required training and retraining as assigned within the allotted timeframe. Participates in Pre-Incident Planning in order to be familiar with the immediate response area risks as well as new or unique building challenges, transportation route familiarity and obstacles such as those routes that are under construction. Educates the public about fire prevention and fire safety practices by participating in Public Education, and Fire Prevention activities as well as conducting Community Fire Safety programs, as required.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Respond to emergency scenes and perform duties including firefighting, search and rescue, emergency medical aid, and vehicle extrication.
• Operate fire apparatus and equipment according to established policies and protocols.
• Maintain a clean and orderly fire station, including cleaning, inspections, and equipment maintenance.
• Participate in training, retraining, and Public Education activities related to fire prevention and safety.
• Conduct Pre-Incident Planning to familiarize with risks and challenges in the response area.
• Educate the public about fire prevention and safety practices.

Minimum Qualifications

• Successful completion of National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1001 Level 1 & 2 and NFPA 470 or 1072 or 472 Operations level (proof of IFSAC or Pro Board seal). A Letter of Compliance with NFPA Standards from the Ontario Fire Marshal's Office (Grandfathering) will be accepted in lieu of Seals (documents required).
• Successful completion of:
• The Ontario Fire Administration Inc. (OFAI) Stage One Firefighter Aptitude and Character Test (as verified by possession of a current and valid Candidate Testing Services CTS Certificate) (document required); or
• Aptitude test, as required by Ottawa Fire Services. (This is not required prior to applying, but you must indicate that you do not have a OFAI Stage One Certificate, above, when completing the application for the position.)
• Possess a valid Ontario Class “D” license with a “Z” air brake endorsement with no more than three (3) demerit points accumulated, or provincial and/or territorial equivalent (document required).
• Successful completion of the Ontario Secondary School Diploma OSSD (Grade 12) or academic equivalent diploma.
• Previous fire service or related sectors work experience would be an asset.
• Skills and abilities acquired though related work such as trades, other emergency services, relevant training and educational programs would also be considered an asset.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience and formal training may substitute for academic requirements.
• Training and experience operating heavy vehicles.

Preparing for firefighter aptitude testing is an important step in the hiring process for City of Ottawa applicants. Most candidates write a standardized cognitive test (FACT) before progressing to the interview stage for the City of Ottawa.

Our practice tests mirror the format, timing, and difficulty of real firefighter aptitude exams. Build confidence with full-length FACT and CPS practice tests and detailed explanations.