Give Work A Chance Job Fair Employer Profile: Greensboro Fire Department
Over the next several weeks, we will be publishing profiles on the employers who will be attending the job fair on August 24 from 4-7 p.m. at 599 Railroad St. at Bull City Ciderworks in Lexington.
Captain Kelly Giles, a 1988 Central Davidson High School graduate, wants to make sure Davidson County candidates are invited to apply for current and future options in neighboring Greensboro.
Why is the Greensboro Fire Department coming to the Give Work A Chance Job Fair in Lexington?
GFD looks to cast a huge net to attract as many candidates as possible. Growing up in Davidson County, I know the talent pool there. Good work ethic and good upbringing is a premium and it’s always been something I was especially proud of regarding our Davidson County community.
We are looking for firefighters/EMTs. We have immediate needs because of a staffing shortage. We have seen a substantial decrease in applicants in the last several years.
As a recruiter, people ask me this question all the time. I look for two things, coachable and good character. Those two things are an absolute must.
Why would someone want to work for the Greensboro Fire Department?
GFD and the city of Greensboro really take care of their people. They offer great benefits and truly strive to set up everyone for success.
How does a candidate reach out? Call or text 336 254 3109 or email Kelly.giles@greensboro-nc.gov
Where can we learn about the positions? Gfdnc.com or we also have a ride along program. I often encourage individuals to drop by one of our 27 fire stations or sign up to do a ride along to get a better idea of what the career entails.
What are some of the duties? Medical and fire emergency response primarily. However, we have a Hazmat Team, Urban Search and Rescue Team, Foam Team, Bike Team. We also have a Fire and Life Safety division that specializes in planning, inspections and public education.
What makes this job so important? I would say the first responder aspect. GFD really takes pride in rapid response. Our goal is to have a response time of under five minutes. Obviously, time is crucial in any type of emergency. There is a direct correlation with the time our personnel arrive on the emergency scene to the chances of survival of the patient/victim.
We also want to salute the career of Captain Sterling Suddarth, a Davidson County native, who just retired after a career serving the Greensboro Fire Department.
