Oudtshoorn Municipality is providing 16 temporary firefighter positions for individuals who are enthusiastic about safety, collaboration, and effecting change. This is more than merely a job – it is a vocation for those possessing bravery, discipline, and commitment. This opportunity is perfect for individuals who are physically fit, mentally resilient, and keen to operate in a setting where every moment is crucial. If you have ever aspired to be on the frontlines during emergencies, this is your opportunity.
Position Details
- Closing Date for Applications: 15 August 2025
- Monthly Salary: R 5,555.10
- Type of Position: Temporary – 16 posts available
- Location: Oudtshoorn Municipality, Western Cape
Minimum Qualifications
- Educational Requirements
- Matric.
- Professional Experience
- At least one year of operational experience in a firefighting or emergency services environment.
- Licensing & Certifications
- A valid Code C1 driver’s license will be an advantage.
- Firefighter 1 – NFPA 1001 Certification (proof required).
- Hazmat Awareness – NFPA 472 Certification (proof required).
- Valid First Aid Level 3 certificate (proof required).
Additional Requirements
Because firefighting is physically demanding and mentally challenging, candidates must:
- Be physically and mentally fit – medical note required.
- Pass the NFPA 1582 medical test (medical note required).
- Have no criminal record.
- Be comfortable working at heights and in confined spaces (no fear of heights or claustrophobia).
- Have good communication skills.
- Be proficient in at least two of the three official languages of the Western Cape (Afrikaans, English, isiXhosa).
Physical & Skills Assessment
Shortlisted candidates will be required to complete a series of practical tests to ensure they can handle the job’s demands, including:
- 2.4 km run within the required time.
- Push-ups and sit-ups test.
- Hose drag exercise.
- Drum carry challenge.
- Height test (to assess comfort and safety in high places).
- Claustrophobia test (to assess ability in confined spaces).
- Swimming test (you must be able to swim confidently).
What You’ll Be Doing – Key Duties
As a firefighter with Oudtshoorn Municipality, your work will go far beyond putting out fires. You will be part of a skilled and committed team responsible for:
- Fire Prevention & Safety Programs
- Participating in community fire safety education.
- Conducting fire prevention inspections to reduce risks.
- Daily Station Duties
- Maintaining and cleaning the fire station, firefighting vehicles, and equipment.
- Ensuring all equipment is operational and ready at all times.
- Training & Drills
- Taking part in regular drills, simulations, and physical fitness exercises.
- Attending internal and external training sessions to sharpen skills.
- Administrative Tasks
- Completing incident reports, vehicle logbooks, and other records accurately.
- Assisting with compiling emergency-related reports.
- Standby & Overtime Duties
- Working a shift system, including overtime and being on standby at short notice.
Core Skills & Competencies Needed
To excel in this role, you will need a mix of professional and personal abilities, including:
- Professional Competencies: Excellent communication, customer focus, problem-solving skills, ethical conduct, resilience, and professionalism.
- Functional Competencies: Firefighting expertise, rescue operations (including Hazmat and urban search and rescue), fire safety knowledge, emergency medical care, and effective call-taking and dispatching.
- Public Service Orientation: Strong interpersonal relationships and a passion for service delivery.
- Personal Competencies: Action-driven, adaptable to change, mentally resilient, fast learner, and strong problem-solving abilities.
- Leadership Competencies: Ability to work as part of a team, positively influence others, and provide guidance when needed.
Recruitment Process
Applicants should be aware that the selection process will include:
- Interviews – to assess suitability and motivation.
- Practical Assessments – to test physical and job-related skills.
- Written Assessments – where applicable.
- Reference Checks – contacting previous employers.
How to Apply
Official Oudtshoorn Municipality application form must be used to submit applications.
Your submission must include:
- A covering letter outlining your interest and suitability for the role.
- Verified copies of your credentials and identification documents that are no more than three months old.
- Contact details for at least three professional references.
Apply here for 16 X Temporary Firefighters
Where to submit:
- Post: HR Manager: Support Services, P.O. Box 255, Oudtshoorn, 6620
(Please note: Due to a website error, online submission is currently unavailable.)
Important Notes
- Canvassing for the position will result in automatic disqualification.
- If you do not receive feedback within 30 working days of the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.
- CVs will not be returned to applicants.
- The municipality is committed to employment equity and may prioritise candidates in line with its plan.
- No email or fax applications will be accepted.
Why This Job Is Worth It
Becoming a firefighter means more than earning a salary – it’s about purpose, teamwork, and serving your community. While the role is physically demanding and sometimes dangerous, it is also deeply rewarding. You will be saving lives, protecting property, and educating the public about fire safety.
If you are a person with courage, discipline, and a heart for service, this is your opportunity to step forward and be part of a team that makes a real difference in Oudtshoorn.
