Fighting Fire with Fire by Becoming a Fire Fighter

A Fire Fighter can be employed by the Metropolitan Fire Brigade (MFB) or the Country Fire Authority (CFA). Their job role is to monitor and extinguish fires including house, business and bush fires. This role includes extinguishing with water and back-burning prior and during bush fire season.

Fire Fighters are required to answer calls as quickly as possible to prevent fire or further damage, to provide support during natural disasters by assisting the State Emergency Service (SES), operate a variety of extinguishing devices and methods, rescue people and animals where possible, first aid and maintenance of equipment both in station and street hydrants.

Fire Fighters are required to work very well as a team with good communication skills, enjoy physical, practical work, be fit, and be adaptable to heights, temperatures and other extreme and unusual working conditions.

There are no tertiary courses needed to become a fire fighter however applicants are advised to have finished VCE or equivalent or at least year 10. Training courses are held by the MFB/CFA however entrance into this course is highly competitive and rigorous. The selection process includes written skill tests, multiple physical tests and an interview. The initial training usually takes between 3-4 months while certification as a qualified fire fighter can take up to 3 years.

Applicants must have a drivers licence and be an Australian Citizen as well as have a police check and pass a medical examination and fitness test. Related TAFE courses that can assist with entry include Public Safety and Fire Technology.

Salaries for Fire Fighters are around $53K but fluctuate depending on skill, experience and management level. Workers usually work full time and in shift work as there are fires at all times of the day and days of the week. The work structure is similar to that of nurses.

Find a position as a Fire Fighter and more information here.