Volunteer Fire

City of Independence, Iowa; Independence (IA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 50,000; Part time

Job summary

The City of Independence, Iowa, is hiring Paid-On-Call Firefighters to protect life and property. Responsibilities include responding to fire emergencies, conducting inspections, and maintaining firefighting equipment. Candidates must have a high school diploma, CPR certification, and the ability to obtain an Iowa Firefighter I Certification within one year. Physical fitness to handle emergency situations is necessary. The role is paid-on-call and involves both indoor and outdoor work in hazardous conditions.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Iowa Firefighter I Certification needed within one year.
• Ability to perform CPR, first aid, and basic life support.

Responsibilities

• Operate fire trucks and firefighting equipment.
• Perform salvage operations and first aid at emergency scenes.
• Conduct fire inspections and check structures for compliance.

Skills

Fire prevention knowledge

CPR and first aid skills

Decision-making under pressure

Leadership ability

Effective communication

Understanding of fire ordinances

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Iowa Firefighter I Certification

Tools

Firefighting equipment

Hydraulic ladders

Job description

Overview

Job Posting Title: Fire Department Paid-On-Call Firefighter

Job Opportunity: Fire Department Paid-On-Call Firefighter
City of Independence, Iowa | Fire Department

The City of Independence is seeking committed, dependable individuals to serve as Paid-On-Call Firefighters. This position plays a critical role in protecting life, property, and community safety by responding to fire emergencies, providing lifesaving assistance, and supporting ongoing fire prevention efforts. Paid-On-Call Firefighters are essential members of the department, responding as needed to emergency incidents and operational duties.

Position Overview

Department: Fire
Reports To: Fire Chief
Status: Paid-On-Call
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Appointments: At-Will (unless covered under bargaining unit contract)

The Role

Paid-On-Call Firefighters perform fire suppression, emergency response, and lifesaving activities under general supervision. Responsibilities include operating fire apparatus and equipment, participating in rescue operations, performing maintenance on department tools and property, and assisting with fire inspections. This role requires good judgment, the ability to respond under pressure, and a commitment to training and safety.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Operate fire trucks, firefighting equipment, and hydraulic ladders.
• Perform salvage operations, including laying covers, sweeping/pumping water, and debris removal.
• Learn and perform first aid, CPR, and basic life support at emergency scenes.
• Conduct general maintenance, adjustments, and minor repairs to apparatus; report major defects.
• Wash, clean, dry, and test hoses, apparatus, and equipment.
• Perform assigned fire inspections and check structures for compliance with fire ordinances.
• As needed, temporarily assume responsibility for equipment and crew when relieving a company officer.
• Carry out additional fire department duties as required by the Fire Chief.

Qualifications & Requirements

Knowledge & Skills

• Knowledge of fire prevention, suppression, department administration, and firefighting equipment.
• Ability to perform CPR, first aid, basic life support, and apply modern fire suppression techniques.
• Ability to evaluate emergency situations and make sound decisions.
• Ability to lead, train, direct, or support firefighting personnel when needed.
• Ability to maintain accurate records, communicate effectively, and interact with the public under stress.
• Ability to understand ordinances, state and federal regulations, and technical fire safety information.

Education & Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Iowa Firefighter I Certification, or ability to obtain within one year of appointment.
• One year of related work experience or equivalent combination of education and training.

Licensing & Certifications

• Valid State of Iowa Driver’s License.
• Firefighter I Certification (or ability to obtain within one year).
• Must maintain NIMS, First Aid, and CPR certifications throughout employment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 100 lbs. (equipment such as rescue tool power units, generators).
• Ability to carry 25–50 lbs. (hoses, SCBA, ladders).
• Ability to climb ladders, work at heights, operate equipment, and work in extreme environments (heat, cold, fumes, smoke).
• Must wear required personal protective equipment, including turnout gear and SCBA.

Residency Requirement

• Must reside within one mile of the Independence, Washington, and Sumner Fire Districts.

Availability

Must be generally available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, for emergency response.

Work Environment

This position involves both indoor and outdoor work, including hazardous conditions inherent to firefighting. Exposure to extreme temperatures, smoke, fumes, chemicals, confined spaces, loud noise, and dangerous situations is common. The position is designated as safety-sensitive due to emergency response and equipment operation responsibilities.