SIDNEY — “Make a difference in our community — join Sidney Fire.”
It’s not every job that comes with a slogan. But being a firefighter is not just any job.
The Sidney Department of Fire & Emergency Services plans to fill two positions next year and is seeking applicants for the jobs.
“It’s a great opportunity to make a difference,” Fire Chief Brad Jones said. “For someone who’s looking for a calling, it’s a great way to pay back.”
Jones said the slogan, “Make a difference in our community — join Sidney Fire,” represents that philosophy of service.
The city of Sidney is offering, through the National Testing Network www.nationaltestingnetwork.com, a civil service examination for firefighters to establish an eligibility list.
Applications for this examination may be obtained from the receptionist on the second floor of the Municipal Building, 201 W. Poplar St., Sidney, OH 45365. Applications will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Dec. 18, 2015. Application packets may be downloaded from the city of Sidney website at www.sidneyoh.com, click on “EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES”.
The salary range is $47,936 to $60,383 annually for the job.
The city of Sidney is an equal opportunity employer. Minorities are encouraged to apply.
Jones said the application materials on the city’s website are “very user-friendly.” He said the city may extend the Dec. 18 deadline.
The website describes the position and department this way: “Firefighters are responsible for the protection of lives and preservation of property, through the delivery of emergency medical services (EMS), fire prevention and other related services.
The Sidney Department of Fire & Emergency Services suppression forces are comprised of three 11-person crews that work every third day. The city has a main fire station (Fire Station 1) located in the downtown area and a second fire station located near the city’s main commercial area, interstate highway and industries. The firefighter/EMT/paramedic is primarily responsible for responding to emergency calls for medical services, fire suppression, hazardous materials, river rescue, trench rescue, etc., on a variety fire and emergency apparatus. Calls to the department for fire and emergency services exceed 3,000 per year.”
Applicants who pass the entry-level test will move on to take the CPAT test with the Miami Valley Fire/EMS Alliance. After they pass both tests, applicants will be placed on the department’s eligibility list. CPAT stands for candidate physical ability testing. After the CPAT, the top candidates will be interviewed by the department.
Jones stressed the jobs are “entry-level” positions; no firefighter/paramedic experience is required. Military veterans and applicants with firefighter experience do receive preference on the exam, he said.
Addition of two firefighters will bring the force to 38. Jones said the department has had three open positions since 2009 because of budget constraints, but was authorized to add two next year. He also said there are expected to be one or two vacancies later because of retirements.
