What are the responsibilities and job description for the Firefighter position at Douglas County, WI?
Description
The Springfield Fire Department makes a positive impact with citizens on a daily basis.
This posting is to qualify candidates for the Fall 2026 Fire Academy.
Firefighters hired for the Fall 2026 Fire Academy will have an entry starting salary at $27.52/hour (80/hour pay period) and $19.6571/hour (112 hour pay period). Both wage rates equate to $57,241.60 annually. Firefighters work a 48-hour shift, followed by 96 hours off.
Join our team as a Springfield Firefighter!
The Springfield Fire Department is a professional organization dedicated to serving our community! Department core values include: professionalism, integrity, compassion, dedication, and courage. The Springfield Fire Department consists of more than 220 professionals and provides services in an 80 square-mile area from 12 fire stations, 16 frontline apparatus and is ISO 2 accredited.
The primary duty of a Firefighter is to respond to fires, medical emergencies, motor vehicle accidents, and other emergencies as part of a team to bring it to a successful resolution. Additionally, the Department offers a variety of specialized assignment options such as Technical Rescue, Water Rescue, Hazardous Materials Response, and Investigations and Inspections.
For more information regarding the Firefighter position and selection/hiring process, please visit the City of Springfield's Firefighter Employment Page.
Qualifications And Requirements
Experience, Education, and Training:
For more information on essential functions and other requirements, please see the job description.
About The Springfield Fire Academy
Springfield Fire Department Hiring Process:
Please note: Please include your current email address on application. Most communication that will occur during this process will be through written communication, feel free to email or call for any updates at steven.anderson@springfieldmo.gov
Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability and Vet
The City of Springfield promotes equal employment opportunities to all without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability, or other legally protected status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.
Individuals with disabilities who believe they will need an accommodation to undergo any part of the interview, examination, or pre-employment process, should request a reasonable accommodation in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act prior to the testing or appointment. Requests should be requested by contacting City of Springfield Human Resources by phone, 417-864-1607, or in person at the Municipal Busch Building, 840 Boonville Ave. Springfield, MO 65802.
Proof of United States Citizenship/Authorization to Work in the United States as established by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986 is a condition of employment. We are committed to a drug-free workplace. Pre-employment drug testing is required.
All interested candidates MUST complete the City of Springfield on-line application in its entirety. The candidate profile must include all employment history with accurate and complete information prior to submission. Resumes alone will not be accepted as the application, but they may be submitted as supplemental documentation.
Find out more about City of Springfield employee benefits through the following link: https://www.springfieldmo.gov/Benefits
01
The following questions are specific to the position you are applying for, and must be completed accurately. The information you provide below will be used to evaluate your talent and experience related to the position and will determine who is invited to the interview process. The information you provide must be reflected in the experience, education, certifications or volunteer work provided in your application above. A response of 'see resume' will not be accepted.
Firefighters hired for the Fall 2025 Fire Academy will have an entry starting salary at $57,241.60 annually. Is this an acceptable starting salary?
The next Fire Academy is anticipated to start in September 2026. Are you available to attend this academy?
Do you possess a High School Diploma or GED?
What best describes your level of education?
Have you attached a copy of your transcript from an accredited college or university? Please note: you must submit transcripts from an accredited college or university showing at least 36 college credit hours earned. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable at this time, but a diploma by itself will not be sufficient for this requirement.
Please select your participation in a related registered Department of Labor apprenticeship program.
Have you attached a copy of your certificate of completion of a registered Department of Labor apprenticeship program?
Please select all certifications you currently possess.
Have you attached a copy of any of the above fire services professional certifications? Please note: you submit both Firefighter I AND II certifications in order to meet minimum qualifications through this certification.
How many years of full-time fire service experience do you possess?
How many years of volunteer or part-time fire service experience do you possess?
How many years of experience do you possess as an emergency responder, not considering any fire service experience?
How many years of experience do you possess working with minimal supervision? (i.e. completed the majority of your work day with little oversight or instructions from a supervisor)
Please explain the experience stated above with a brief description of the supervision you did receive and the employer(s) this applies to.
16
How many years of work experience do you possess leading or managing others?
Please explain the experience stated above with a brief description of the supervision responsibilities assigned to you and the employer(s) this applies to.
18
How many years of active duty military experience do you possess?
Have you attached a copy of your DD-214? Please note: you must submit the Member-4 form of your DD-214 showing that you possess at least 2 years of active duty military service and have honorable discharge status.
Have you attended the Springfield Fire Academy within the last 3 years as a paid student?
Have you attended a formal Fire Academy?
If yes, please list the name of the Fire Academy you attended. If no, list N/A
23
Have you ever been an intern with the Springfield Fire Department? This does not include attending the Springfield Fire Academy
Have you ever been convicted or plead guilty to any federal, state, or municipal criminal offense? This includes all traffic violations for which you have paid fines. (Information relayed will not necessarily preclude you from testing)
If yes, please provide detailed information regarding the crime(s), including offense, date convicted, and outcome (misdemeanor or felony.)
26
For the purpose of responding to the following questions, "illegal drugs" includes the unauthorized or illegal use of prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs; it also includes the illegal use of any other substance for the purpose of getting "high."
Your responses should include - but not be limited to - your use of any of the following:
Within the past year, have you used Marijuana and/or Tetrahydrocannabinal (THC) with or without a prescription?
If you answered 'YES' to the above question, give details including drug(s) used, most recent date used, and circumstances. If you answered 'NO', please enter 'N/A'.
29
Do you have any face, head or neck tattoos or tattoos that would show in a long sleeve shirt?
If you have any tattoos, please use the space below to describe each tattoo in detail, as well as where the tattoo is located. If you do not have any tattoos, please type 'N/A'.
31
Do you possess a current, valid driver's license?
In order to be invited to Firefighter testing, you must submit documentation showing you meet the minimum qualifications for the position, such as unofficial transcripts, Firefighter I & II certificates, Certificate of Completion of registered DOL apprenticeship, EMT-B License or DD214. This must be sent in with your application or shortly following the submission of your application to the email address below. Please email your documents to steven.anderson@springfieldmo.gov . Please choose an option below that best reflects how you will show you meet the minimum qualifications.
Have you participated in Springfield Firefighter testing in the past (written, physical ability, experience questionnaire or interview)?
If yes, please provide the year you tested and at which point you left the testing process (written, physical ability, interview)
35
Were you referred by a current City employee to apply for this position?
If yes, please state the full name of the City employee who referred you to this position.
37
Are you aware most Career Firefighters work shifts that require them to be gone from home for a significant amount of time and available to work the designated, assigned shift assignment of the department? Please note: Springfield Fire Department works a 48-hour ON, 96-hour OFF shift schedule.
Are you willing to wear a uniform and adhere to appearance standards?
Are you willing to receive medical training and respond to emergency situations involving ill, injured or mortally wounded children and adults?
Given the proper training in use of Fire Department tools and equipment, are you willing to participate in Fire Training Simulations involving hazardous chemicals, flammable liquids, and combustible gases?
Given the proper training, are you willing to participate in Fire Training Simulations involving work in a limited or no visibility environment and in tight or confined spaces?
You will receive training in Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA). It is essential that this vital piece of equipment be able to fit properly at any time during your training. Participants will be required to shall be clean shaven, except that a neat, evenly trimmed mustache is permissible. Mustaches shall not extend downward or outward more than one half inch below the corner of the mouth. Individuals with beards, sideburns or other hair styles that interfere with the proper seal of a breathing apparatus face piece will not be allowed to participate in classes requiring SCBA use. Given this requirement, do you agree to be clean shaven (if applicable)?
The Springfield Fire Department makes a positive impact with citizens on a daily basis.
This posting is to qualify candidates for the Fall 2026 Fire Academy.
Firefighters hired for the Fall 2026 Fire Academy will have an entry starting salary at $27.52/hour (80/hour pay period) and $19.6571/hour (112 hour pay period). Both wage rates equate to $57,241.60 annually. Firefighters work a 48-hour shift, followed by 96 hours off.
Join our team as a Springfield Firefighter!
The Springfield Fire Department is a professional organization dedicated to serving our community! Department core values include: professionalism, integrity, compassion, dedication, and courage. The Springfield Fire Department consists of more than 220 professionals and provides services in an 80 square-mile area from 12 fire stations, 16 frontline apparatus and is ISO 2 accredited.
The primary duty of a Firefighter is to respond to fires, medical emergencies, motor vehicle accidents, and other emergencies as part of a team to bring it to a successful resolution. Additionally, the Department offers a variety of specialized assignment options such as Technical Rescue, Water Rescue, Hazardous Materials Response, and Investigations and Inspections.
For more information regarding the Firefighter position and selection/hiring process, please visit the City of Springfield's Firefighter Employment Page.
Qualifications And Requirements
Experience, Education, and Training:
- Must be a high school graduate or have G.E.D;
- Must possess an Emergency Medical Technician–B license;
- Firefighter I and II certifications;
- Completion of a registered Department of Labor apprenticeship program in construction trade, public safety, or related area;
- 30 hours of college credit from an accredited college or university;
- Two years of cumulative active duty military service with an honorable discharge.
- Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license;
- Must possess or obtain Firefighter I and II certifications and a valid Emergency Medical Technical –B license during the probationary period and each must be maintained throughout the appointment.
- 18 years of age at commission
- Vision correctable to 20/30
- Excellent physical condition
- Due to the public safety nature of the Firefighter position any felony and misdemeanor convictions will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis to determine eligibility of the applicant. Review includes such factors as the nature, type, and recency of conviction as well as other job related factors.
- Must comply with the department's tattoo policy and not have any face, head, or neck tattoos or tattoos that would show in a long sleeve shirt.
For more information on essential functions and other requirements, please see the job description.
About The Springfield Fire Academy
- New Firefighters will attend the Springfield Fire Academy.
- The Academy is typically 24 weeks, Monday-Thursday, 10-hour days.
- Firefighters are paid employees of the City and receive benefits during the academy.
- New hires must successfully pass the Firefighter Physical Ability Test during the academy to maintain employment.
Springfield Fire Department Hiring Process:
- Talent and Experience Evaluation: Human Resources staff and Fire Administration will review each application and rate candidates on their past work experience, education, certifications and other qualifications. These ranking will be used to determine which candidates will be invited to the interview portion of the hiring process.
- Selection Process Information: The testing and selection procedure includes the following elements: an oral interview, comprehensive background investigation as well as post-offer pre-employment physical examination and pre-employment drug screen.
- Interview
- Interviews take approximately 30 minutes.
- Employment interviews with the City of Springfield may be different than interviews with other employers. Check out our interview tips here.
- Background Investigation
- Background investigations are initiated after the interview process and may take several weeks to complete.
- The background investigation is very extensive and requires the candidates sign an authorization form. It will include previous work references, criminal and civil records checks, personal references, and checks with landlords, neighbors, and more.
- Candidates will not be considered without multiple reference checks from previous employment.
- Job Offer
- The Human Resources Department will make job offers, conditional on passing the physical examination and drug screen.
- Generally, physical examinations will be conducted within two weeks of the job offer. Candidates will be evaluated by a department-selected physician who will evaluate whether the candidate can safely perform the essential functions of the job, and a drug screen will be given.
Please note: Please include your current email address on application. Most communication that will occur during this process will be through written communication, feel free to email or call for any updates at steven.anderson@springfieldmo.gov
Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability and Vet
The City of Springfield promotes equal employment opportunities to all without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability, or other legally protected status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.
Individuals with disabilities who believe they will need an accommodation to undergo any part of the interview, examination, or pre-employment process, should request a reasonable accommodation in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act prior to the testing or appointment. Requests should be requested by contacting City of Springfield Human Resources by phone, 417-864-1607, or in person at the Municipal Busch Building, 840 Boonville Ave. Springfield, MO 65802.
Proof of United States Citizenship/Authorization to Work in the United States as established by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986 is a condition of employment. We are committed to a drug-free workplace. Pre-employment drug testing is required.
All interested candidates MUST complete the City of Springfield on-line application in its entirety. The candidate profile must include all employment history with accurate and complete information prior to submission. Resumes alone will not be accepted as the application, but they may be submitted as supplemental documentation.
Find out more about City of Springfield employee benefits through the following link: https://www.springfieldmo.gov/Benefits
01
The following questions are specific to the position you are applying for, and must be completed accurately. The information you provide below will be used to evaluate your talent and experience related to the position and will determine who is invited to the interview process. The information you provide must be reflected in the experience, education, certifications or volunteer work provided in your application above. A response of 'see resume' will not be accepted.
- I understand.
Firefighters hired for the Fall 2025 Fire Academy will have an entry starting salary at $57,241.60 annually. Is this an acceptable starting salary?
- Yes, this is acceptable pay.
- No, this is not acceptable pay.
The next Fire Academy is anticipated to start in September 2026. Are you available to attend this academy?
- Yes, I am available to attend the next scheduled Fire Academy.
- No, I am not available to attend the next scheduled Fire Academy.
Do you possess a High School Diploma or GED?
- Yes
- No
What best describes your level of education?
- Less than High School
- High School Diploma or GED
- 36 college credit hours from an accredited college or university
- Associate's Degree or 60 college credit hours from an accredited college or university
- Bachelor's Degree or greater
Have you attached a copy of your transcript from an accredited college or university? Please note: you must submit transcripts from an accredited college or university showing at least 36 college credit hours earned. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable at this time, but a diploma by itself will not be sufficient for this requirement.
- I have attached a copy of my transcript showing that I meet the 36 college credit hours requirement
- I will submit my transcripts after submitting my application.
- This qualification does not apply to me.
Please select your participation in a related registered Department of Labor apprenticeship program.
- None
- I have participated in a registered Department of Labor apprenticeship program, but did not complete it.
- I have completed a registered Department of Labor apprenticeship program (Trades, Public Safety)
Have you attached a copy of your certificate of completion of a registered Department of Labor apprenticeship program?
- I have attached a copy of my certificate of completion of a registered Department of Labor apprenticeship program
- I will submit my certificate of completion of a registered DOL apprenticeship program after submitting my application.
- This qualification does not apply to me.
Please select all certifications you currently possess.
- Firefighter I AND II
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) –B license
- Hazardous Materials Awareness
- Hazardous Materials Operations
- Rope Core
- Driver/Operator Core
- Driver/Operator Pumper
- I do not possess any of the above certifications
Have you attached a copy of any of the above fire services professional certifications? Please note: you submit both Firefighter I AND II certifications in order to meet minimum qualifications through this certification.
- I have attached a copy of the above fire services professional certifications I claimed above.
- I will submit my certifications after submitting my application
- This qualification does not apply to me.
How many years of full-time fire service experience do you possess?
- None
- Less than 1 year
- 1 year
- 2 years
- 3 years
- 4 years
- 5 or more years
How many years of volunteer or part-time fire service experience do you possess?
- None
- Less than 1 year
- 1 year
- 2 years
- 3 years
- 4 years
- 5 or more years
How many years of experience do you possess as an emergency responder, not considering any fire service experience?
- None
- Less than 1 year
- 1 year
- 2 years
- 3 years
- 4 years
- 5 or more years
How many years of experience do you possess working with minimal supervision? (i.e. completed the majority of your work day with little oversight or instructions from a supervisor)
- None
- Less than 1 year
- 1 year
- 2 years
- 3 years
- 4 years
- 5 or more years
Please explain the experience stated above with a brief description of the supervision you did receive and the employer(s) this applies to.
16
How many years of work experience do you possess leading or managing others?
- None
- Less than 1 year
- 1 year
- 2 years
- 3 years
- 4 years
- 5 or more years
Please explain the experience stated above with a brief description of the supervision responsibilities assigned to you and the employer(s) this applies to.
18
How many years of active duty military experience do you possess?
- I do not have any military experience
- 1 year
- 2 years
- 3 years
- 4 years or more
Have you attached a copy of your DD-214? Please note: you must submit the Member-4 form of your DD-214 showing that you possess at least 2 years of active duty military service and have honorable discharge status.
- I have attached a copy of my DD-214.
- I will submit my DD-214 after submitting my application.
- This qualification does not apply to me.
Have you attended the Springfield Fire Academy within the last 3 years as a paid student?
- Yes
- No
Have you attended a formal Fire Academy?
- Yes
- No
If yes, please list the name of the Fire Academy you attended. If no, list N/A
23
Have you ever been an intern with the Springfield Fire Department? This does not include attending the Springfield Fire Academy
- Yes
- No
Have you ever been convicted or plead guilty to any federal, state, or municipal criminal offense? This includes all traffic violations for which you have paid fines. (Information relayed will not necessarily preclude you from testing)
- Yes
- No
If yes, please provide detailed information regarding the crime(s), including offense, date convicted, and outcome (misdemeanor or felony.)
26
For the purpose of responding to the following questions, "illegal drugs" includes the unauthorized or illegal use of prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs; it also includes the illegal use of any other substance for the purpose of getting "high."
Your responses should include - but not be limited to - your use of any of the following:
- Amphetamines/Methamphetamines (uppers, speed, crank, etc)
- Barbiturates (Downers)
- Cocaine/Crack Cocaine
- Designer Drugs (Ecstasy, Synthetic Heroin, etc)
- GHB (Date Rape Drug)
- Hallucinogens (Peyote, LSD, Mushrooms)
- Hashish/Hashish Oil
- Heroin/Opium
- Marijuana (disclose use with or without a prescription)
- Mescaline
- Morphine
- PCP/Angel Dust
- Quaaludes
- Steroids
- Tetrahydrocannabinal (THC)
- Glue, paint, or any substance containing toluene
- Yes
- No
Within the past year, have you used Marijuana and/or Tetrahydrocannabinal (THC) with or without a prescription?
- Yes
- No
If you answered 'YES' to the above question, give details including drug(s) used, most recent date used, and circumstances. If you answered 'NO', please enter 'N/A'.
29
Do you have any face, head or neck tattoos or tattoos that would show in a long sleeve shirt?
- Yes
- No
- I do not have any tattoos
If you have any tattoos, please use the space below to describe each tattoo in detail, as well as where the tattoo is located. If you do not have any tattoos, please type 'N/A'.
31
Do you possess a current, valid driver's license?
- Yes
- No
In order to be invited to Firefighter testing, you must submit documentation showing you meet the minimum qualifications for the position, such as unofficial transcripts, Firefighter I & II certificates, Certificate of Completion of registered DOL apprenticeship, EMT-B License or DD214. This must be sent in with your application or shortly following the submission of your application to the email address below. Please email your documents to steven.anderson@springfieldmo.gov . Please choose an option below that best reflects how you will show you meet the minimum qualifications.
- I have attached all documents required that show I meet the minimum qualifications to my application.
- I will email my documents shortly after submitting my application.
- I must order my documents but will get them in as soon as possible.
Have you participated in Springfield Firefighter testing in the past (written, physical ability, experience questionnaire or interview)?
- Yes
- No
If yes, please provide the year you tested and at which point you left the testing process (written, physical ability, interview)
35
Were you referred by a current City employee to apply for this position?
- Yes
- No
If yes, please state the full name of the City employee who referred you to this position.
37
Are you aware most Career Firefighters work shifts that require them to be gone from home for a significant amount of time and available to work the designated, assigned shift assignment of the department? Please note: Springfield Fire Department works a 48-hour ON, 96-hour OFF shift schedule.
- Yes, I am aware and am available to work the 48-hour on-shift/96-hour off-shift schedule as explained above.
- No, I am not aware and/or am unavailable to work this schedule as explained above.
Are you willing to wear a uniform and adhere to appearance standards?
- Yes
- No
Are you willing to receive medical training and respond to emergency situations involving ill, injured or mortally wounded children and adults?
- Yes
- No
Given the proper training in use of Fire Department tools and equipment, are you willing to participate in Fire Training Simulations involving hazardous chemicals, flammable liquids, and combustible gases?
- Yes
- No
Given the proper training, are you willing to participate in Fire Training Simulations involving work in a limited or no visibility environment and in tight or confined spaces?
- Yes
- No
You will receive training in Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA). It is essential that this vital piece of equipment be able to fit properly at any time during your training. Participants will be required to shall be clean shaven, except that a neat, evenly trimmed mustache is permissible. Mustaches shall not extend downward or outward more than one half inch below the corner of the mouth. Individuals with beards, sideburns or other hair styles that interfere with the proper seal of a breathing apparatus face piece will not be allowed to participate in classes requiring SCBA use. Given this requirement, do you agree to be clean shaven (if applicable)?
- Yes
- No
- Not Applicable
- Required Question
Salary : $57,242