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Heavy Rescue Jobs in British Columbia (NOW HIRING)

Fuel, lube, and grease field equipment and heavy machinery * Perform basic servicing such as oil ... First Aid and/or Mine Rescue training is an asset * Grade 12 completion The Right Fit Looks Like ...

... rescue services. They are the first to ski or ride on the hill and the last off it daily. If this ... Heavy; work activities involve handling loads up to 25kg; predominantly in an outdoor setting ...

... rescue services. They are the first to ski or ride on the hill and the last off it daily. If this ... Heavy; work activities involve handling loads up to 25kg; predominantly in an outdoor setting ...

Achieve and hold current fall protection training as well as high angle rescue certificates. * Keep ... Minimum 25 years of relevant experience in the crane, hoist, or heavy construction equipment ...

Achieve and hold current fall protection training as well as high angle rescue certificates. * Keep ... Minimum 2-5 years of relevant experience in the crane, hoist, or heavy construction equipment ...

Deckhand

Richmond, BC · On-site

$47.85/hr

STCW Marine Emergency Duties - Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats * Transport Canada ... Physically able to manage regular heavy lifting and repetitive movements * Ability to meet pre ...

Heavy Rescue information

What are some of the most common challenges faced by heavy rescue professionals?

Heavy Rescue professionals often encounter unpredictable and hazardous situations, such as vehicle extrications, building collapses, or industrial accidents, which require rapid problem-solving and precise technical skills. Working in adverse weather conditions, confined spaces, or at significant heights can also pose additional safety risks. These challenges demand strong teamwork and ongoing training to ensure every operation is performed safely and effectively. Many teams operate on rotating shifts, meaning the ability to handle fatigue and stress is essential to maintain performance and safety on the job.

How do I become a heavy rescue?

To become a heavy rescue technician, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by training in rescue operations, emergency medical services, and firefighting. Certification such as EMT or paramedic and specialized rescue training are often required, along with physical fitness and experience in emergency response environments.

What is a heavy rescue?

A Heavy Rescue job involves responding to complex emergency situations requiring specialized skills and equipment. This can include vehicle extrication, building collapses, confined space rescues, and hazardous material incidents. Heavy rescue personnel are highly trained firefighters or emergency responders who use advanced tools like hydraulic cutters, airbags, and rope systems. Their primary objective is to safely remove and assist trapped or endangered individuals in high-risk environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the heavy rescue position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Heavy Rescue professional, you need expertise in rescue operations, mechanical aptitude, physical fitness, and often EMT or firefighter certification. Typical tools include hydraulic extrication equipment, rigging systems, and specialized protective gear, and OSHA or NFPA certifications are commonly required. Strong teamwork, quick decision-making, and effective stress management set outstanding candidates apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for safely and efficiently responding to high-risk emergencies and saving lives under pressure.

What are popular job titles related to Heavy Rescue jobs in British Columbia? For Heavy Rescue jobs in British Columbia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Heavy Rescue jobs in British Columbia look for? The top searched job categories for Heavy Rescue jobs in British Columbia are:
Infographic showing various Heavy Rescue job openings in British Columbia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Emergency Vehicle Technician

City of Richmond

Richmond, BC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Overview

Reporting directly to the EVT Branch Captain in charge of the Emergency Vehicle Technician Branch (EVT), this position is skilled mechanical work performed in accordance with established trade practices at the journeyman level in the inspection, maintenance, overhaul and repair of a variety of firefighting equipment and vehicles in the Fire-Rescue Department (RFR). Oral and written assignments are received from the EVT Branch Captain who reviews work performance in terms of effective journeyman services provided.

Examples of key work activities include, but are not limited to:
  • Servicing of vehicles including: troubleshooting and correcting performance issues, performing regulatory compliance and warranty work, performing oil and fluid changes, onboarding and maintaining electrical and computer systems, keyboarding, maintenance of braking systems, tires, torqueing turntable bolts, diagnostics, etc.
  • Servicing of emergency equipment including hydraulic hoses, rescue tools, power tools.
  • Perform tasks as directed by the EVT Branch Captain or RFR.
Education and Experience
  • Completion of Grade 12 or equivalent supplemented by a valid Class 3 Driver's Licence for the Province of British Columbia with Air Brake Endorsement.
  • B.C. Certificate of Qualification as a Heavy-Duty Mechanic or Commercial Transport Mechanic (Red Seal) and related experience is required.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
  • Knowledge of the standard practices, methods, materials, tools and equipment used in the automotive and heavy-duty mechanical trades.
  • Considerable knowledge of the hazards and proper safety precautions related to the work performed.
  • Ability to perform a variety of skilled mechanical and related tasks in the overhaul, repair, maintenance, and adjustment of a wide variety of automotive, heavy duty, firefighting equipment and vehicles.
  • Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions and work from blueprints, diagrams and schematics.
  • Proficiency in work related computer applications such as diagnostic equipment, MS Office including Word, and Outlook (including e-mail and calendar)
  • Proficiency in work related computer fleet management software, FASTER (RFR Maintenance Database), Skill in the use and care of tools and equipment used in the trade.
  • Demonstrated mechanical aptitude; with proven ability to diagnose, troubleshoot and repair a wide range of equipment and vehicles.
  • Ability to operate a variety of vehicles and equipment.
  • Ability to fabricate, trouble-shoot, diagnose problems, repair and overhaul diesel engines; ability to repair and overhaul air brake systems.
  • Ability to work with minimal supervision; exercise considerable independence of judgement and action in completing assignments.
  • Ability to work both autonomously and as part of a team.
  • Physically able to demonstrate performance of the work and meet the physical demands of the job; ability to work within confined spaces.
  • Attention to detail is required.
  • Must be able to demonstrate the City's Values of People, Excellence, Leadership, Team and Innovation.
  • Decision making skills: Independently diagnose intermittent electrical issues, make critical 'repair vs. replace' decisions to optimize budget and vehicle in-service, prioritize emergency repairs during high-volume shifts to ensure fleet availability. Apply a systematic approach to identify root causes and implement reliable solutions under pressure.
  • Teamwork and accountability: Collaborate with EVT Maintenance Group to streamline workflow, reduce average turn-around time, maintain a 100% 'fix-it-right-the-first time' record, consistently account for all parts and labor in detailed service logs.
Licences, Certificates and Registrations
  • A valid Class 3 Driver's Licence for the Province of British Columbia with Air Brake Endorsement (drivers abstract will need to be submitted).
  • B.C. Certificate of Qualification as a Heavy-Duty Mechanic or Commercial Transport Mechanic (Red Seal Mechanic - will need to be submitted).
Preferred Qualifications
  • Current EVT certification
  • Certified Automotive Mechanic
  • Demonstrated experience in the areas of modern fire apparatus, small engines, hydraulics, A/C and D/C wiring
  • Demonstrated experience in fabrication and welding of steel and aluminum.
  • A valid B.C. Authorized Inspector certificate.
Working Conditions and Effort


This position involves regular, physical work as a significant part of the working environment conditions, and performs work in all variety of weather conditions: onsite at RFR Mechanical shop, at various Fire Hall locations and potentially outside at emergency scenes. Potential exposure to noise of power tools and impact wrenches.
Occasionally required to work blind in order to access various engine parts. Physical ability and effort are required which involves reasonable heavy lifting, lowering, moving, carrying, pushing and/or pulling equipment such as engine components, pumps, hydraulic spreaders, etc. Frequent and regular physical effort is required which involves lifting and lowering of hand tools and pneumatic tools.

Potential exposure to dust, dirt, chemicals and fumes. Potential exposure to hot coolant, machinery parts and or/welding flash.

This position will be posted until filled, we anticipate beginning the review of candidates and subsequent interviews after April 19th, 2026.