FIREFIGHTER I

Date: Aug 20, 2026

Req ID: 59318

Location:

Fort Smith, AR, US, 72901

Category: DEPT OF THE MILITARY

Anticipated Starting Salary: $47,396.96

Position Number: 22176002
County: Sebasitian
Anticipated Starting Salary: $47,396.96

The mission of the Department of Military is to provide a professional staff of Arkansas State Employees who help maintain and improve the readiness of Arkansas National Guard units through effective fiscal management of State Resources, Human Resource Management, and quality administration of Arkansas National Guard Programs.

Preferred qualifications, specific skills and/or professional background details:

Must be able to pass a firefighter medical physical and must be able to pick up a 100 pound barbell off the ground, raise it above their head and then set it back down on the ground.
Firefighter position requires the following certifications: Fire Fighter II, Airport Fire Fighter, HAZMAT Operations, Driver/Operator Pumper, ARFF & Tender. All certifications must be attained within the first twelve months of employment, including completion of the Fire Protection School (Fire Academy), DoD-sponsored Career Development Courses (CDC) or equivalent certification accredited by International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC).

Additional job duties and/or day-in-the-life details:

Job requires working firefighter shift work, which includes working nights, weekends, and holidays. The schedule will be 48 hours on duty and 96 hours off duty.

Position Information

Job Series: Safety and Security – Firefighters

Classification: Firefighter I

Class Code: SFI02P

Pay Grade: SGS05

Salary Range: $47,397 – $70,148

Job Summary

The Firefighter I supports the firefighting team by performing essential tasks that help maintain operational readiness and enhance emergency response effectiveness. Working under the close supervision of experienced firefighters and officers, the Firefighter I performs duties such as equipment preparation and maintenance, administrative support, and basic emergency support functions. This role is designed for individuals looking to begin a career in emergency services, providing them with on-the-job training and a pathway toward becoming fully qualified firefighters.

Primary Responsibilities

Assist firefighters during emergency calls by preparing fire fighting equipment, carrying supplies, and completing designated supportive tasks. Help set up and dismantle equipment at the scene of an emergency under supervision. Ensure that all firefighting apparatus, tools, and personal protective equipment are clean, well-maintained, and ready for immediate use. Perform routine checks and minor maintenance tasks to support the upkeep of station vehicles and gear. Maintain accurate records of equipment inspections, fuel logs, and other operational documentation. Assist in inventory management of supplies and assist with correspondence or file management as required. Actively participate in ongoing training sessions, drills, and physical fitness programs to develop the skills required for future firefighting duties. Understand and adhere to all safety protocols, ensuring proper use of equipment and adherence to emergency procedures. Support local fire-prevention initiatives by helping with the setup of public education events and safety demonstrations. Assist in conducting routine inspections or basic fire hazard observations as directed by supervisors.

Knowledge and Skills

Must possess a valid driver’s license acceptable for emergency services transportation. Must successfully pass physical fitness exams and background checks as required by the hiring agency. Ability to work flexible shifts, including nights, weekends, and on-call hours, is often necessary.

Minimum Qualifications

High School Diploma or GED.

Successful completion of any agency-specific orientation or basic emergency response training will be expected.

Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.

Licensure/Certifications

N/A OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.