Firefighter

Nature of Work

The first level Firefighter classification is responsible for responding to medical emergencies, fires, and motor vehicle accidents clean ups and other hazardous material related incidents. Responsibilities include fire vehicle and facilities maintenance, completing required training, and responding to medical emergencies, fires, hazardous material releases and other similar incidents.

Firefighters must be able to work 24-hours shifts including weekends and holiday and be available to work overtime when required to meet operational needs.

Training / Education and Experience Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent (GED)
• Valid Driver's License

Skill / Abilities Requirements

• Equipment policies and procedures;
• Fire materials apparatus and equipment;
• Materials, methods, and tools involved in construction;
• Local, state, and federal security operations;
• React quickly and calmly to emergency situations;
• Communication, interpersonal skills as applied to interaction with coworkers, supervisor, the general public, etc. sufficient to exchange or convey information and to give and receive work direction.
• Ability to use computers and relevant software (ex.: Microsoft Office).

Additional pay opportunities with the position:

• $1200 annually for Hazmat Technician Certification
• $1080 annually for EMT Certification

OTTUMWA CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION

ENTRANCE EXAM FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF ELIGIBILITY LIST

APPLICATION DEADLINE: May 16, 2026

Applicants who meet the minimum requirements will be contacted to participate in the Assessment Process to create a Civil Service list.

Assessment Process will consist of online and in-person assessments (physical agility test).

The City of Ottumwa offers a fantastic benefits package.

• 11 paid holidays - earned the first year and taken as floating holidays the next
• Paid-time off (accrual begins immediately)
• Health Insurance (Including Medical, Dental and Vision) - eligible the 1st of the month after hire
• Health and Dependent Flexible Spending Accounts
• Yearly Free Health Screenings
• Life Insurance
• Municipal Police and Fire retirement - City contributes 22.66%
• Longevity Payments (after five years)