Description
Firefighters at Nelson Fire & Rescue Services serve under the direction of their assigned Captain and are key contributors to the safety and wellbeing of the community. This role involves responding to a wide range of emergency incidents, including fires, medical emergencies, technical rescues, and hazardous situations. In addition to emergency response, firefighters are responsible for fire prevention activities, public education, equipment and facility maintenance, and administrative tasks.
The position requires a strong commitment to safety, continuous learning, and teamwork. Firefighters are expected to maintain a high level of readiness and professionalism at all times and to participate in both structured and self-directed training to maintain their skills and certifications.
Duties and Responsibilities
• Respond to fire, rescue, and medical emergencies in a safe, effective, and timely manner.
• Extinguish and prevent fires, and protect life, property, and the environment.
• Assist in wildfire prevention, mitigation, and suppression.
• Operate and maintain firefighting apparatus, tools, and equipment in a safe and efficient manner.
• Participate in ongoing training programs and maintain required certifications and competencies.
• Support fire safety initiatives, including FireSmart principles and community outreach.
• Conduct fire inspections and assist with fire prevention and public education programs.
• Adhere to all corporate and department safety protocols and procedures.
• Maintain accurate documentation and perform administrative duties as required.
• Be available for emergency overtime callbacks at any time of day or night, as required to support operational needs.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
• Resident Resident of the City of Nelson or within 4 km of the firehall at the time of hire.
• Grade 12 education or equivalent.
• Pro Board or IFSAC-certified NFPA 1001 – Firefighter Level I & II.
• Valid Class 5 BC Driver’s License and Class 3 Learner’s Permit with air brake endorsement (must obtain full Class 3 within 12 months of permanent employment).
• Valid First Responder certification and license to practice at time of hire.
• Active member as a Nelson Auxiliary Firefighter for 18 months or longer (at the discretion of the Fire Chief).
• Normal hearing without artificial aids.
• Vision: Minimum 20/100 unaided, 20/40 corrected in both eyes.
• Canadian citizen or permanent resident, and at least 19 years of age.
• Physically fit and medically able to perform the duties of a firefighter as per NFPA 1582 Medical and Fitness Standard.
SKILLS
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving abilities in high-stress environments.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills within a command-structured setting.
• Ability to assess risks and respond quickly and appropriately in emergency situations.
• Physical strength and stamina to perform demanding rescue and firefighting tasks.
• Mechanical aptitude for operating and maintaining equipment and vehicles.
• Attention to detail and commitment to safety in all operations.
• Ability to educate and engage with the public on fire safety and prevention.
• Adaptability and the ability to follow direction under rapidly changing conditions.
• Commitment to professional development and continuous improvement.