CITY OF GREAT FALLS
Probationary Firefighter
Summary
City of Great Falls is hiring a Probationary Firefighter to complete the GFFR fire academy and then serve on a fire apparatus crew. The role supports fire suppression, EMS, and rescue response under the supervision of fire officers while developing proficiency in departmental policies and operational skills.
What you'll do
Participate in the GFFR fire academy (intense training program) and master required firefighter knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Respond to emergency incidents, alarms, and service calls as a crew member assigned to a fire apparatus.
Respond to callbacks when requested by the Fire Chief or designated representative for large fires or staffing needs.
Provide patient care at the EMT Basic level (or as qualified/credentialed, if applicable).
Perform fire suppression and rescue operations, including rescuing trapped or stranded victims from structures.
Conduct forcible entry, ventilation, salvage, and overhaul operations.
Position and climb ladders; work on roofs and other locations above or below ground level.
Operate in hazardous environments using SCBA and firefighter PPE, including high heat and low/no visibility conditions while maintaining orientation and escape routes.
Assist with functional and annual testing of pumps, ladders, hoses, apparatus, and equipment.
Clean and maintain station facilities, grounds, and equipment; report repair needs to supervisors.
Participate in public safety education programs, including classes and station tours.
Attend training sessions and drills; study and learn departmental policies, procedures, and standard operating guides.
May be required to drive and operate assigned rescue units (ambulances) for patient transport.
Follow orders from company officers or the Deputy Chief of Training; cooperate fully with department members.
Conduct floor watch duties as outlined in AR PER-003.
After competency sign-off, may drive the water tender to incidents (not as pump operator).
Perform other duties as assigned by superior officers.
Requirements
Passing score on the physical portion of the CPAT testing conducted by Public Safety Testing in Montana.
Valid driver’s license.
National Registered Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic.
High School diploma or equivalent.
Core competencies: Ethical Conduct; Stress Management/Composure; Problem Solving/Analysis; Communication Proficiency.
Compassionate, professional customer service skills to assist the public and determine needs/resources.
Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions in stressful and dangerous situations.
Emotional and mental resilience for emergent situations involving death, gruesome scenes, or emotional distress.
Basic skills/knowledge to advance hose-lines and equipment for fire suppression.
Familiarity with the location and operation of fire tools and equipment; adherence to safety standards per GFFR operating guides.
Ability to perform EMT Basic skills according to Montana Board of Medical Directors’ standards.
Mechanical aptitude for limited maintenance work on apparatus, equipment, and tools.
Ability to handle highly sensitive information with strict confidentiality.
Maintain physical conditioning per the collective bargaining agreement.
Candidates who do not meet minimum requirements at the time interviews are conducted are not eligible for an interview.
Conditions
First review of applications: April 2026.
Fire academy includes a 40-hour work week.
Upon successful completion of the academy, assignment to a platoon and to a fire apparatus crew under direct supervision of a fire officer.
Not eligible to be a member of the fire union until completion of a shift on platoon.