Fire Department Driver Operator Job Description
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the demand for all paid fire fighting occupations will increase by 17 percent through 2018. Fire department driver operators are amongst the team of firefighters that work for a city or other area.
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Function
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Fire department driver operators are the individuals responsible for driving the fire truck to the scene of a fire and then operating the pumps on the truck to fill other firefighter's hoses in order to put out the flames.
Skills
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Successful fire department driver operators are able to drive a large truck very quickly, but also do so in a safe manner that avoids accidents. Teamwork, the ability to remain calm in dangerous or stressful situations, physical fitness and strength and hand-eye coordination are also necessary for the work of driver operators.
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Education
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The minimum education required for most fire department driver operators is an associates or bachelors degree in fire engineering or fire science. Fire department driver operators learn the skills necessary to drive fire trucks and operate equipment during the course of these programs.
Certifications
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All fire department driver operators must have a valid state-issued driver's license and in some states, additional certifications on the driver's license may be necessary to drive a fire truck. Like all firefighters, most driver operators receive training at the fire department that leads to certification as an emergency medical techinician (EMT) as well as certification in CPR and first aid.
Optional Credentials
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Some states offer optional certification as a fire department driver operator. The requirements for this certification varies, but may involve completing a training course and/or a written exam.
Compensation
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As of December 2009, the average annual salary for fire department driver operators was $47,000, according to Indeed.com.
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