How to Be Firefighter/Driver Operator - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Sep 2, 2023 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The role of a Firefighter/Driver Operator is essential in maintaining public safety. By operating fire vehicles, such as fire engines and ladders, they are able to respond quickly and effectively to a fire emergency. Not only do Firefighter/Driver Operators transport firefighters, ladders, and hoses to fires, but they also provide water supply to the fire scene, help to setup hoses and ladders, and provide general support to the firefighting team.

As a result of their critical role, Firefighter/Driver Operators must be highly trained and proficient in their work. They must possess strong knowledge in areas such as fire suppression techniques, hazardous materials control, fire prevention, rescue operations, vehicle maintenance, and driving techniques. they must have excellent communication skills in order to stay in contact with other members of the fire team while responding to an emergency.

Firefighter/Driver Operators are an integral part of any firefighting team, and without their expertise and skillset, we cannot ensure public safety.

Steps How to Become

Meet the minimum requirements. This typically includes being at least 18 years old, having a valid drivers license, and having a high school diploma or GED.
Obtain specialized training. You may need to complete courses in basic firefighting, hazardous materials awareness, and first aid/CPR.
Take the written and physical tests. The written test will assess your knowledge of firefighting, while the physical test evaluates your ability to perform the job.
Complete an internship. Some local fire departments offer internships that allow you to work alongside experienced firefighters while training to become one.
Pass a background check. This is required to make sure you dont have any criminal history that would prevent you from becoming a firefighter.
Become certified. In order to be eligible for hire, you must obtain certification from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
Apply for a driver operator position. Depending on the department, you may also have to go through additional training to become a driver operator.
Pass the driver operator test. This test consists of both written and practical components and covers topics such as vehicle operation, maintenance, and safety.

The role of a Firefighter/Driver Operator requires a high level of skill and competence. To be successful in this role, individuals must have a strong understanding of the principles of firefighting, as well as a sound knowledge of the operation of firefighting equipment and vehicles. This includes a thorough knowledge of the operation of pumps, hose laying, and ladder operations.

Furthermore, Firefighter/Driver Operators must demonstrate a high level of driving skill and have experience in driving emergency vehicles in all types of conditions. Firefighter/Driver Operators must also be able to think quickly and take decisive action under pressure. Those who possess these skills and demonstrate the necessary level of competency will be successful in this role.

You may want to check Hazardous Materials Technician, Fire Apparatus Engineer, and Firefighter/Paramedic for alternative.

Job Description

Respond to emergency alarms and drive fire apparatus to the scene of an emergency.
Operate pumps and fire hoses, direct water streams, and adjust nozzles to control direction and force of water or other extinguishing agents.
Place ladders at windows and ventilate smoke-filled areas by removing doors and windows or cutting holes in roofs and walls.
Operate power tools, such as circular saws, chain saws, and hydraulic tools.
Connect, inspect, and maintain hose systems and other firefighting equipment.
Lay and connect hose lines and operate nozzles to direct water or chemicals onto fires.
Inspect fire apparatus, equipment, and facilities to ensure proper functioning.
Participate in regular drills, physical fitness activities, and other training activities.
Perform rescue operations at fires, accidents, disasters, or hazardous material incidents.
Provide first aid or CPR as needed.
Assist in the investigation of fires to determine cause and origin.
Assist with fire prevention activities such as public education programs and building code enforcement.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of firefighting and emergency medical services operations
Ability to drive and operate firefighting apparatus
Ability to operate pumps and other firefighting equipment
Knowledge of standard operating procedures
Ability to recognize hazardous materials and take appropriate action
Ability to perform forcible entry
Ability to perform search and rescue operations
Ability to communicate effectively with others
Knowledge of emergency medical procedures
Ability to assess fireground operations
Knowledge of fire behavior and ventilation techniques
Knowledge of building construction and components
Ability to operate communications systems
Ability to inspect and maintain firefighting equipment
Knowledge of safety regulations and procedures

Being a Firefighter/Driver Operator requires a range of important skills, but perhaps the most important skill to have is the ability to think quickly and make sound decisions in a pressure-filled environment. In order to ensure the safety of firefighters and the public, Firefighter/Driver Operators must be able to assess the situation, recognize potential risks, and develop and execute a plan of action. This requires quick thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as having thorough knowledge of the firefighting equipment, the fire codes, and the standard operating procedures.

An effective Firefighter/Driver Operator also needs to be highly organized and have excellent communication skills to effectively coordinate with other firefighters, emergency personnel, and the public. Finally, physical strength and stamina are also essential for being able to carry out the strenuous tasks associated with firefighting. Therefore, quick thinking, sound decision-making, knowledge of firefighting equipment and procedures, organization, communication, and physical strength are all important skills that a Firefighter/Driver Operator should possess.

Firefighter, Fire Alarm Technician, and Fire Equipment Technician are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have with driving and operating firefighting apparatus?
How would you handle a difficult situation while driving to the scene of an emergency?
What safety measures do you take while driving a fire truck?
How do you ensure the fire truck is in safe operating condition before responding to an incident?
Describe the types of hose lines you are most familiar with and how you would use them in an emergency.
What strategies do you use to prioritize tasks while responding to an incident?
How do you maintain positive communication with other fire personnel and the public during an incident?
How do you handle hazardous materials incidents or other dangerous situations?
What strategies do you use to keep yourself physically and mentally fit for the job?
Describe a time when you had to make a split-second decision while responding to an incident.

Common Tools in Industry

Fire Hose. A hose used to extinguish fires, (eg: 100-foot hose).
Fire Truck/Engine. A vehicle used to transport equipment, personnel, and water to the scene of a fire, (eg: 1,500-gallon tanker).
Fire Axe. An axe used to break open windows and doors in order to gain access to the interior of a burning building, (eg: 20-pound axe).
Hydrant Wrench. A wrench used to open and close hydrants to provide water to the fire hoses, (eg: 12-inch wrench).
Water Monitor/Nozzle. A nozzle attached to the end of a fire hose that can be adjusted to produce a range of water pressure which is used to extinguish the fire, (eg: 2-inch nozzle).
PPE (Personal Protective Equipment). Clothing and accessories designed to protect firefighters from heat and flames, (eg: Nomex hood).
SCBA (Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus). An air tank attached to a mask that provides a supply of fresh air to the firefighter, (eg: 45-minute tank).
Thermal Imaging Camera. A device used to locate people and objects in a smoke-filled environment, (eg: FLIR camera).
Chainsaw. A power saw used to cut through materials such as wood, (eg: Stihl chainsaw).
Portable Pump. A device used to provide water pressure for the fire hoses at the scene of a fire, (eg: Honda pump).

Professional Organizations to Know

International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC)
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
International Society of Fire Service Instructors (ISFSI)
International Fire Service Training Association (IFSTA)
Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA)
International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC)
Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO)
National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC)
National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF)
International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI)

We also have Firefighter/EMT, Rescue Technician, and Fire Lieutenant jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Fire Truck. A specialized vehicle designed to carry firefighters, equipment and water to the scene of a fire.
Firefighting. The act of extinguishing fires, preventing their spread and controlling the effects of fires.
Fire Hose. A flexible hose used to deliver water to the scene of a fire.
Fireground Tactics. A set of strategies used by firefighters to safely and effectively fight a fire.
Fire Hydrant. An external plumbing fixture used to supply water to a firefighting apparatus.
Fire Extinguisher. A portable device used to extinguish or control small fires.
Fire Alarm System. A system designed to detect and alert people to the presence of a fire.
Fire Suppression System. A system of equipment and procedures used to extinguish or control a fire, such as sprinklers and foam systems.
Emergency Medical Services (EMS). A system of services designed to provide medical care to those in need in an emergency situation.
Crisis Management. The process of responding to and managing an emergency situation in order to minimize its impact and ensure the safety of people involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications are required to become a Firefighter/Driver Operator?

In order to become a Firefighter/Driver Operator, individuals must have completed a basic firefighter training program, possess a valid driver's license, and have a minimum of two years' experience operating an emergency vehicle.

What responsibilities does a Firefighter/Driver Operator have?

The primary responsibilities of a Firefighter/Driver Operator include responding to emergency calls, operating fire trucks and other emergency vehicles, and providing medical aid to victims. They also provide support at fire scenes by setting up hoses and ladders, operating pumps and other equipment, and performing rescue operations.

How much does a Firefighter/Driver Operator typically earn?

The average salary for a Firefighter/Driver Operator is around $50,000 per year. This amount can vary depending on the region and the individual's experience level.

What type of environment does a Firefighter/Driver Operator typically work in?

Firefighter/Driver Operators typically work in high-pressure environments, responding to emergency calls and providing medical aid in hazardous conditions. They often work long hours in hazardous and physically demanding conditions.

What is the job outlook for Firefighter/Driver Operators?

The job outlook for Firefighter/Driver Operators is expected to remain positive over the next decade. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment in this field will grow by 5% between 2019 and 2029.