Ames Fire Department

Information on becoming an Ames Firefighter

Ames firefighters work a 24 hour shift with an average week consisting of 56 hours.  During the 24 hour shift, firefighters respond to emergences, as well as, maintain the fire station and the equipment.  Firefighters also present fire safety training and public education to our citizens. 

To become an Ames Firefighter we recommend that the firefighter candidate complete and become certified in at least one of the recommended items listed:

• First Responder Certificate or higher (EMT)
• Firefighter 1 Certification
• Hazardous Materials Awareness Certificate
• Associates Degree in Fire Science

Though not required, an applicant possessing one of the aforementioned certificates or degree greatly increases their chances of being hired.

Pass written test

Pass a physical ability test

Job description
Applicants must meet the requirements in the job description
http://www.cityofames.org/hrweb/Documents/2111-Firefighter.pdf

Interest card
Complete an interest card to be notified when we are accepting applications; for full details click on the link below for the City of Ames Human Resources Department.
http://www.cityofames.org/hrweb/InterestCard.htm

Des Moines Area Community College “DMACC”
To obtain the items mentioned above contact your local community college.  In the Ames area you may contact Des Moines Area Community College. 
http://www.dmacc.edu/programs/fire/about.asp

Fire recruit school
http://www.dps.state.ia.us/fm/fstb/newclasses.shtml

Hazardous materials awareness course information
http://cdis.missouri.edu/exec/public/detailedcourseinfo.aspx?k=9038

A typical day at the fire station consists of the following
Equipment inspection and testing
Station duties – cleaning and maintaining the station
Morning briefing to discuss the day’s events that are scheduled (tours, inspections, public education and training)
Participating in scheduled events
Cooking meals for the crew
Typically the afternoon is reserved for crew level training such as the following: