Probationary Firefighter – Sarnia – 2025

The City of Sarnia is pleased to offer careers in firefighting. Firefighting is a demanding profession that carries considerable responsibility to protect life, property, and the environment from the effects of fire and other hazards. Firefighters respond to incidents involving fire suppression, hazardous materials, high angle rescue, medical assists, water and ice rescue, and auto extrications. They are also involved with the delivery of key fire safety messaging and public education duties. The firefighter’s role is not easy; it involves a high level of personal stress. It requires satisfaction derived from public service, the ability to work closely in a challenging team environment, the ability to cope with high levels of stress, dedication, resilience, and excellent listening and communication skills. As a member of Sarnia Fire Rescue Services, you will be responsible for responding to emergency calls requiring rescue operations, medical aid, and firefighting tactics. Sarnia Firefighters provide service 24-hours a day, seven (7) days a week. Our firefighters work on a rotating 24-hour shift schedule that includes weekends and holidays. Teamwork is an essential component of the profession whether on the scene, at the station, and/or while providing service assistance to the public.

- Respond to emergency calls requiring rescue operations, medical aid, and firefighting tactics
- Perform strenuous activities related to fire suppression
- Possess the mental resilience to deal with traumatic injuries and situations
- Work at elevated heights, in confined spaces, on and in water, as well as zero visibility situations
- Respond to a variety of technical rescue situations including water and ice, high angle, confined spaces, motor vehicle accidents, and industrial incidents
- Use and operate all vehicles, apparatus, and equipment associated with the normal and efficient operations associated with the control and extinguishment of fires
- Work while wearing self-contained breathing apparatus and full protective clothing weighing 50 to 60 pounds in immediately dangerous to life or health environments
- Be extensively trained as a First Responder to provide medical assistance and administer emergency patient care
- Maintain daily upkeep of grounds and buildings, fire apparatus, and equipment
- Participate in departmental training programs and be proficient and knowledgeable in firefighting/emergency medical response equipment, techniques, and procedures
- Maintain commitment to career development and actively seek out opportunities to grow and advance professionally
- Perform public relations services, public education, and fire prevention activities including presentations, conducting tours, and attending public events to promote fire safety and awareness

- Valid Ontario Fire Administration Inc. (OFAI) Candidate Testing Service (CTS) certificates including: Stage One, Stage Two (Hearing, Vision, and Encapsulated Treadmill), Stage Three (Technical Skills, and Physical Aptitude), and Swim Test
- Ontario Secondary School Grade 12 Diploma or academic equivalent
- Proof of a valid Class “DZ” Ontario Driver’s License (or equivalent)
- Pleasure Craft License
- Valid Standard First Aid and CPR-C
In addition, candidates must have at least one of the following:
- Firefighter Pre-Service Education & Training Program from a recognized institution; or
- Successfully completed IFSAC/ProBoard Certification (NFPA 1001 including Firefighter I & II); or
- Five years’ experience as a career firefighter in a municipal fire department with supporting Ontario Fire Marshall (OFM) documentation demonstrating successful grandfathering to the NFPA 1001 Firefighter I & II Level

- Previous experience in fire suppression, construction, trades, mechanical, other emergency services, fire prevention, Military, Coast Guard, large vehicle/heavy equipment operation
- Skilled Trade License or Certification
- Community College diploma in Fire Protection Engineering Technician/Technology Program
- University Degree or College Diploma
- Demonstrated Coaching, Teaching, Counselling, Leadership skills
- Volunteer and/or community involvement
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Proven ability to work in a team environment