A firefighter engineer is responsible for ensuring that the fire trucks, ladder truck, engines, and towers that transport firefighters are in top condition. They must also ensure the vehicles are safe to drive and that they can take the necessary steps to repair the fire pumps or other equipment in the event of a break down.
If you want to work in the field of fire engineering, you need to study fire science and technology and be certified as a professional engineer. A bachelor’s degree in a field such as mechanical or electrical engineering, with courses in fire protection engineering, is the minimum requirement for this career. You can also complete a graduate program to earn a master’s in fire science and technology.
The best way to get started in this career is to join a professional association that deals with the field of fire protection. These associations help you advance your career by providing networking opportunities, promoting best practices, and certifying your knowledge of safety issues and the use of fire-protection technology.
To become a firefighter engineer, you must pass a written test and an interview process that is similar to the one that qualifies you as a firefighter. Once you are a firefighter engineer, you can take on additional responsibilities such as operating the fire pumps or other equipment on the fire scene, in addition to your normal driving duties. You may also be able to work as an acting lieutenant, in which case you may be responsible for directing crews and managing the truck.
