Firefighters Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

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, SCBAs, 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.

Why Join Us?
• Serve your community in a meaningful, mission‑driven role.
• Gain firefighting experience, training, and skill development.
• Work alongside a dedicated team committed to protecting public safety.
• Make a direct impact during emergencies and in community fire prevention efforts.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The City of Independence is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities.

At the end of this application, you will have the opportunity to complete a Voluntary Self-Identification of Disability.

Voluntary Self‑Identification of Disability

Completing this voluntary form will not affect your application in any way.
Your response is strictly confidential, stored separately in a confidential file, and will not be accessed or seen by anyone involved in hiring or selection decisions—ensuring no adverse treatment will result from your choice to decline or complete this form.

Upon submission of this application, I authorize the City of Independence to make a complete investigation of me, including but not limited to, my past employment history, medical history, scholastic record, criminal activity, motor vehicle driving records, workers’ compensation history and to receive the results of any physical examination, including the results of alcohol or drug screening I may be required to undergo, and to rely on such information sources.

Please complete all fields in the application.

A resume may be attached as a supplement but does not replace the need for a completed application.

The City of Independence uses E-Verify.