City Fire Department Seeking Paid-On Call Firefighters

The Effingham Fire Department has begun its 2021 Paid-On Call Firefighter recruitment. The theme of the 2021 campaign is “Can You Fill This Seat?”. Recruitment posters feature a photo of an air-pack equipped jump seat from one of the Effingham City Fire Engines with the caption – “Can You Fill this Seat”?

Paid-On Call Firefighters play an important role as the back-up force to the 15 full-time firefighters and perform fire suppression, rescue and hazardous materials response for the City and its mutual aid agencies, according to Fire Chief Bob Tutko. Starting pay for this position is $12.30 per hour. The Fire Department provides training that includes the Basic Operations Firefighter Certification course that is taught at the Illinois Fire Service Institute on the U of I Campus in Champaign, along with providing the required personal protective equipment.

“This is truly a unique opportunity for citizens to become active members in the community with an organization that can make a big impact on the lives of their friends and neighbors.” added Chief Tutko.

Paid-On Call Firefighter applicants must reside in the City or reside within an 8.2 mile radius of Fire Station 1 located at 505 W Fayette Avenue. Candidates must be at least 18 years of age. In addition, applicants will be required to successfully complete a physical ability test and physical exam by the department designated physician. Paid-On Call Firefighter Applicants are also subject to a background check and fingerprint check prior to acceptance. Paid-On Call Firefighters are subject to a one-year probationary period and are considered “at-will” employees.

Paid-On Call Firefighter applications can be obtained at Fire Station 1, 505 W Fayette Ave or Effingham City Hall, 201 E Jefferson St beginning today. The application deadline is April 23rd. In addition to completing the application, interested persons in the Paid-On Call Firefighter position must attend a mandatory orientation session to be held on Monday, April 26th. The date of the Physical Ability Test will be announced at the orientation session.

Further information can be obtained on the Effingham Fire Department facebook page as well as the City’s website, www.effinghamil.com, or by contacting Executive Secretary Jenn Alwardt at 217-342-5346.