Retained Firefighter

Role of the Firefighter

• To save life and preserve endangered life.

• To protect property from damage by fire and firefighting measures.

• To render humanitarian services.

• To inform and educate the community to improve awareness of safety.

Requirements for a Firefighter

• At least 18 years of age on appointment.

• Physically fit and agile with good stamina.

• Able to work in hazardous conditions for long periods, including at heights and in confined spaces.

• Mechanically adept with good dexterity and coordination.

• Trustworthy, honest, dependable, and of good character (Garda Clearance required).

• Self-reliant and self-assured with a keen sense of discipline.

• Able to contribute to and work within a team.

• Able to understand and memorise technical information.

• Able to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.

Health and Safety

Health and Safety is a key part of every firefighter’s role.

Garda Clearance

• The Service is in a position of public trust. A criminal record does not automatically disqualify applicants; all cases are assessed on merit.

• Candidates must declare any convictions or pending charges. Failure to disclose may void the application or result in termination of employment.

• Garda clearance will be carried out prior to appointment.

• Any offences occurring between application and appointment must be reported in writing.

Training

• Retained Firefighters must attend and pass a three-week initial training course at a training centre selected by the Chief Fire Officer.

• Training covers practical firefighting, search and rescue, and the safe use of equipment such as ladders, pumps, and hoses.

• Two weeks of Breathing Apparatus training follows. Failure to complete training satisfactorily may result in termination.

• Ongoing recruit induction and development programs are required to equip firefighters with necessary skills.

• Firefighters must attend weekly 2-hour drill nights and a 3-day block training course, typically held in Spring.

• Attendance at all training is mandatory and may require absence from other employment.

Character

• Candidates must be of good character and submit certificates from two responsible citizens not related to them.

Age

• Candidates must be over 18 years at appointment.

• Normal retirement age is 55 years.

Health

• Free from defects or disease that would render them unsuitable.

• Must pass a medical examination by a qualified practitioner nominated by Waterford City & County Council.

• Required to cooperate with the National Occupational Health System for Retained Firefighters.

Educational Standard

• Minimum of Grade D (or a pass) in five subjects, including Mathematics and English, from the Junior Certificate or equivalent.

Driving Licence

• Must hold an unendorsed Class ‘B’ Driving Licence or provisional Class ‘B’.

• Firefighters may be required to obtain an HGV licence to drive fire appliances.

Annual Leave

• Four weeks per annum (28 days).

• Payment for annual leave is 8% of earnings (excluding retainer, clothing allowance, and previous year’s public holiday/annual leave pay).

• Payment is made during the fortnightly pay cycle.

References

• Submit details of two responsible persons known to the applicant but not related; at least one must be a previous employer.

• Employment offers are subject to satisfactory references. Waterford City & County Council reserves the right to withdraw offers based on unsatisfactory references.

Remuneration

• Part-time employment.

• Fortnightly pay schedule effective from 2025 (Circular E.L. 03/2023).

• Annual pay range: €16,190 – €19,555.