Join Our Team

1. City of West Palm Beach online employment application.
2. City of West Palm Beach Firefighter Supplemental Application Part 2(PDF, 1MB)
3. Physician Clearance Form and Swim Waiver (Will need the day of Written Exam/Swim test)
4. Notarized Tobacco Affidavit (Included in Supplemental).
5. Firefighter as approved by the Florida Bureau of Fire Standards.
6. CPR Healthcare Provider Card.
7. Florida Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). National Registry will not be accepted.
8. Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) (IAFF/IAFC National Standard) within six (6) months of application closing date.
9. ACLS Card (If Applicable/Florida Paramedic Only).
10. High School Diploma or GED.
11. Valid State of Florida Driver’s License. Valid driver's license from any state (equivalent to a State of Florida Class E) may be utilized upon application; with the ability to obtain the State of Florida driver's license on hire date.
12. Emergency Vehicles Operator Course (EVOC).
13. FEMA Independent Study (IS) Courses:
    1. IS-100.C Introduction to Incident Command System
    2. IS-200.C Basic Incident Command System for Initial Response
    3. IS-700.B An Introduction to the National Incident Management System (NIMS)
    4. IS-800.D National Response Framework, An Introduction

       Link to online training https://training.fema.gov/is/crslist.aspx?lang=en

14. If applicable, attach documentation of eligibility for Veteran’s preference (Form DD-214).

FIREFIGHTER Job Description:

SUMMARY:

Under close supervision, performs fire suppression and fire prevention duties to protect life and property; provides emergency rescue and basic medical treatment as required; utilizes various tools and power equipment in rescue operations; maintains department equipment, vehicles and facilities; and performs other related duties as assigned. 

STATE OF EMERGENCY:

When normal operations of City departments are suspended or interrupted due to a declaration by the Mayor that a state of emergency exists, all employees will be deemed critical by the City.  For the preparation and/or continuation of emergency operations or for special work detail, employees deemed necessary shall be required to work.  This is a condition of employment. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

(Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following tasks, knowledge skills, and other characteristics. This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by incumbents of this class.) 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: (which are not in any hierarchical order)

1. Responds to fire alarms with assigned company; lays and connects hose; maintains Suppression and Rescue apparatus; holds nozzles and directs water streams; raises and climbs ladders; assists in freeing victims from situations in which they are physically trapped; performs surface water rescue of victims; utilizes and maintains self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).
2. Operates all types of firefighting and rescue equipment such as portable fire extinguishers, power tools such as chain saws, hand tools and related equipment such as smoke ejectors, forcible entry tools, pike poles and axes.
3. Administers first aid; assists paramedics at medical emergencies; applies techniques for the control of bleeding; utilizes immobilization techniques to stabilize patient; performs cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
4. Participates in fire and life safety inspection activities and other fire prevention and public education activities as assigned.  Maintains appropriate records and files.
5. Attends training sessions that include: structured physical fitness activities, firefighting techniques, emergency medical care, and the proper use of all equipment and related tools.
6. Performs various duties in the maintenance of station facilities and auxiliary equipment.  Washes, dries, polishes, and cleans fire department apparatus and equipment.
7. Inspects fire equipment to ensure proper operation.
8. Acts as driver of emergency vehicles, as needed.
9. Performs other related duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND OTHER CHARACTERISTICS: (Based on area of assignment)

• Knowledge of principles, practices and procedures of modern firefighting.
• Knowledge of Florida Fire Prevention Code and Florida Building Code.
• Knowledge of fire and EMS apparatus, equipment, tools, devices, facilities and the proper use and maintenance.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of emergency medical procedures such as advanced first aid, CPR and other medical assistance techniques.
• Knowledge of decontamination procedures.
• Skill in basic firefighting techniques.
• Skill in operating and maintaining voice radio equipment.
• Skill in selecting and applying appropriate emergency treatment and using specialized equipment and apparatus.
• Skill in analyzing fire and emergency situations and providing an effective course of action.
• Skill in effectively dealing with people under stress.
• Skill in effective interpersonal communication and in dealing with the public.
• Skill in operating standard office equipment including computers, smart phones and other hardware and software.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Work is performed in potentially hostile and/or unsafe work environments.  Tasks involve the intermittent performance of extremely physically demanding work, typically involving some combination of standing, reaching, lifting arms above shoulder level, bending, stooping, kneeling, crouching, running, climbing, working at heights, sitting, talking, hearing, and that may involve the lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling ceilings, starting power equipment, and opening doors on the apparatus., and/or pulling of extremely heavy objects (150+ pounds), such as in the event of rescuing or transporting a victim/patient in the performance of a rescue operation or removing or pulling hose in training or on an emergency scene. When performing fire services and/or rescue operations, tasks are performed with potential for intermittent exposure to occupational health hazards including, but not limited to, fire, extreme temperatures, wetness, humidity, dryness, inclement weather, loud noise, toxic/chemical agents, electrical currents, pathogens, fumes, gases, odors, erratic or unpredictable human behavior, weapons, and explosives.  Tasks include working around moving parts, vehicles, equipment, carts, and materials handling, where extremely heightened awareness to surroundings and environment is essential in the preservation of life and property.  Personal protective equipment applies in the preservation of life and property, as does special equipment including, but not limited to, various types of containment suits, self-contained breathing apparatus equipment (SCBA), powered air purifying respirators (PAPR) and safety gear.   

Knowing how to swim is a requirement for working as a firefighter due to several reasons.

First, firefighters often encounter water-related emergencies such as floods, water rescues, or incidents involving bodies of water. Being able to swim enables them to navigate these situations safely and effectively.

Second, water is a common element used in firefighting operations, such as extinguishing fires or creating a barrier between fire and surrounding structures. Understanding water dynamics and being comfortable in aquatic environments allows firefighters to utilize water resources efficiently and control fire situations more effectively.

Furthermore, firefighters may need to conduct water-based search and rescue operations, either in natural bodies of water or during incidents involving submerged vehicles. Proficient swimming skills enable them to maneuver in challenging conditions and rescue individuals in distress.

Last and most importantly, swimming proficiency enhances a firefighter's personal safety. It provides them with the confidence and ability to handle unexpected water hazards encountered during firefighting operations, minimizing the risk of accidents or injuries.

Overall, the requirement to know how to swim for firefighters ensures they possess the necessary skills to handle water-related emergencies, protect themselves, and effectively carry out their duties in diverse scenarios. 

The West Palm Beach Fire Department Swim Test consists of three skills:

1. Surface Dive and Recover a 5-pound object from bottom of pool at a depth of 13 feet.
2. 50-yard non-stop swim with long pants on.
3. Tread water for 5 minutes.

When we are accepting applications these are the forms you will need on the day of the Swim Test:

Physician Clearance Form

Candidate Swim Test Waiver

Looking to learn to swim in South Florida? Here are some options:

1. Local Swimming Pools: Many communities have public swimming pools that offer swimming lessons for all ages and skill levels. Check with your local recreation center or community center for available programs.

2. Swim Schools: There are several swim schools in South Florida that offer professional swimming lessons. These schools often have experienced instructors and structured programs tailored to different abilities.

3. Beach Lifeguard Programs: Some South Florida beaches offer swim lessons through their lifeguard programs. These lessons focus on ocean swimming and can be a great option for those interested in open water swimming.

4. YMCA: The YMCA branches in South Florida often provide swimming lessons for children and adults. They offer group classes as well as private lessons for personalized instruction.

5. Private Instructors: If you prefer one-on-one attention, consider hiring a private swimming instructor. They can provide individualized lessons and cater to your specific needs and goals.

Remember to prioritize safety and choose a program that suits your needs, whether you're a beginner or looking to improve your swimming skills.

Start here:

https://www.wpb.org/government/parks-and-recreation/aquatics