Volunteer Firefighter

The Town of Fort Erie is seeking energetic and dedicated individuals interested in serving the community as a Volunteer Firefighter. 

Applicants who are selected must successfully complete a six (6) month program followed by a twelve (12) month probationary period, then dedicate a specific number of hours per month to training, fire station duties and meetings.

As a volunteer firefighter you may be called upon at any time twenty-four (24) hours a day, seven (7) days a week, to respond to various types of emergency situations. In addition, you will enjoy the camaraderie and social benefits that come with membership in our firefighters' associations.

You must have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent, be at least 18 years of age and live full-time in the Town of Fort Erie. You are self-confident, reliable and understand the importance of teamwork and cooperation. You have the ability to read, understand and apply Standard Operating Guidelines and the ability to learn and practice new skills. You must possess a valid, unrestricted Class "G" drivers' license and have or be willing to upgrade to a DZ. You are also required to provide a satisfactory police background check and pass medical and physical evaluations.

Fort Erie: A Community for Everyone

Sound interesting? For more information and to apply please visit www.forterie.ca. The deadline for receiving applications is 12:00 Noon on Friday, August 29, 2025. 

The Town of Fort Erie is an equal opportunity employer. Accommodation is available to candidates upon request. We thank all applicants for their interest, only those advancing through the recruitment process will be contacted.  Personal information is collected under the Municipal Act, 2001 to determine employment suitability.

Department:                        Fire & Emergency Services

Division:                              Suppression & Rescue

Reports to:                          District Chief & Station Officers

Position Objective

To rapidly, efficiently and safely deliver firefighting, rescue, medical and other related services under emergency conditions in all weather. These include fire response, suppression and prevention; medical assistance/administration of first aid; motor vehicle accident response and victim extrication; marine rescue; hazardous material spill/release.

Duties & Responsibilities

1.    Safely drive and operate firefighting apparatus and/or respond promptly and safely to calls

2.    Perform physically demanding tasks associated with firefighting, including but not limited to pulling/laying/connecting/directing hoses; raising and climbing ladders; lifting/carrying/operating tools and power equipment; ventilating buildings, and; overhauling, all while wearing heavy protective equipment, usually while using self-contained breathing apparatus

3.    Respond to motor vehicle accidents and perform vehicle extrication

4.    Perform search and rescue on land; perform water search and rescue, both land-based and boat-based

5.    Administer first aid/CPR/defibrillation or other emergency medical

6.    Contain/clean-up hazardous materials such that injury, property and environmental damage are minimized

7.    Inspect, service/regularly maintain firefighting apparatus, equipment, structures and property; report deficiencies to officer in charge

8.    Performs general station maintenance and cleaning

9.    Attend/participate in regular training to learn/practice/upgrade emergency services methods and procedures; participate in periodic evaluation of knowledge and skills

10. Complete or assist with the accurate and timely completion of necessary reports and documentation

11. Participate in public safety/education programs, public events or information sessions

Education & Experience 

·         OSSD or equivalent and successful completion of recruit training

·         Through Department training, a fully-qualified volunteer firefighter must

·         obtain/maintain valid DZ license and driving record satisfactory to the Corporation

·         obtain/maintain first aid and CPR certifications

·         obtain/maintain provincial firefighter certification

Knowledge

·         Thorough knowledge of the safe operation of all apparatus, equipment and methods used in providing emergency services, typically obtained through recruit and in-service training

·         Thorough knowledge of Fire Department policies and operating procedures

·         Knowledge of Occupational Health and Safety Act, regulations and safe work procedures

·         Knowledge of building construction, water systems and water mains typically obtained through recruit and in-service training

·         Mechanical aptitude

Skills & Ability

·         Integrity

·         Reliability

·         Must maintain a reasonable level of health, fitness, agility and sensory abilities – at levels determined and periodically evaluated by the Corporation – in order to safely perform

·         Ability to react quickly and remain calm under duress and strain

·         Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions

·         Ability to learn and practice new skills

·         Ability to read, understand and apply Standard Operating Guidelines

·         Ability to maintain effective working relationships

·         Skill in the operation of all firefighting and rescue equipment including motor vehicles

·         Communication skills

·         Interest in and willingness to participate in community efforts throughout the municipality

·         Self-control

·         Initiative

·         Teamwork and cooperation

·         Self-confidence

·         Discretion and tact

Working Conditions

·         Deliver emergency services in a paramilitary environment within a pre-defined chain of command

·         Exposure to dangerous/hazardous situations

·         Potential exposure to chemical and biological hazards and emotional/upsetting situations

·         Wear heavy personal protective equipment, including self-contained breathing apparatus

·         Prolonged and arduous work under adverse conditions

·         Using heavy equipment and tools in sometimes awkward positions

·         Long periods of heat and cold, with rapid transitions from one to the other

·         Drive large vehicles in traffic

·         Regular attendance at training and calls after hours and on weekends

·         Participation in association activities is encouraged

Position History

Position description was created in 2011.

This Job Description was reviewed in July 2017 for AODA compliance and organizational changes and reporting.