Mitchell Fire Department
Recruitment Handbook
What it takes to be a Paid-on-Call Firefighter
From the Chief’s Desk:
Welcome to the Mitchell Fire Department.
Becoming a Paid-on-Call or Volunteer Firefighter is one of the most rewarding decisions you can make. Service in our department brings personal satisfaction, pride, and the knowledge that your efforts truly make a difference in the lives of others.
But this is also a serious commitment. Firefighting requires courage, discipline, and a willingness to be there when others need you most. This handbook is designed to give you the information you need to make an informed decision about joining our team.
If you choose this path, you’ll be joining a proud tradition of service and excellence in protecting the citizens, businesses, and visitors of Mitchell.
Thank you for considering becoming part of our family.
Chief Joe Lee
Why Join Mitchell Fire Department?
Joining as a Paid-on-Call Firefighter is more than a role—it’s an opportunity.
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Gain experience and skills that prepare you for a future career in fire service.
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Build lasting relationships with other firefighters and community members.
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Make a real difference when it matters most.
The fire service is diverse and challenging. You may respond to fires, medical emergencies, rescues, hazardous material incidents, and more—day or night, in all weather, and often under stressful conditions. This is what makes the work so rewarding.
People join for many reasons: the thrill of emergency response, the desire to help others, or the chance to be part of a strong team. Whatever your motivation, you’ll gain:
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Personal satisfaction from helping those in need
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Skills in leadership, teamwork, and emergency response
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The pride of knowing you’re serving your community
About Mitchell Fire Department
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Founded: 1945
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First Fire Truck: 1923 Seagraves Pumper
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Current Fleet: Three Pierce pumpers, One 2500-gallon Pierce Tanker/Pumper, One Pierce 100’ aerial ladder truck, Two light rescue vehicles, One brush truck, One utility truck, One mobile air trailer, One UTV equipped with small fire pump and backboard, One mass casualty trailer, Two support vehicles for Chiefs.
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Services: Fire suppression, EMS, auto extrication, technical rescue, water rescue, fire prevention, and public education
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Coverage: Mitchell and some unincorporated areas of Madison County
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Membership: Proud member of MABAS 35, collaborating with neighboring districts for mutual aid
Over the decades, our department has grown from a volunteer fire crew into a modern emergency services organization. Today, we provide:
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In-House Contracted ALS Ambulance Service
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Search and Rescue
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High Angle & Water Rescue
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Emergency Medical Response
Together, with the support of our community, we continue to protect lives and property every day.
As a Paid-on-Call Firefighter, you’ll work as part of a team under the direction of the Fire Chief.
Fireground Operations
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Secure water supplies and advance hose lines
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Operate pumps and equipment
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Conduct search and rescue
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Raise and climb ladders
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Ventilate and overhaul structures
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Extinguish vehicle, ground, and structure fires
Rescue Operations
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Vehicle extrication
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Structural collapse response
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Water rescues
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Emergency patient care
Support & Administration
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Record keeping and data entry
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Grant writing
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Fire prevention education and smoke/CO alarm installation
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Technical support (radios, computers, website)
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Fundraising and community events
Department Organization
Chain of Command
Fire Chief
Assistant Chief → Deputy Chief
Captains
Engineers
Firefighters
Junior Firefighters
This structure ensures clear communication, accountability, and effective emergency response.
Expectations
Being a Paid-on-Call Firefighter requires commitment. On average, expect 5–10 hours per week for training, meetings, and responses.
What We Provide
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Free Training – Local, regional, and national opportunities
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EMS Training – EMR and EMT courses, covered by the department with passing grade
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Protective Gear – Full PPE including turnout gear and helmet
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Uniforms – Dress blues for special occasions
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Social Events – Annual Awards Banquet, summer picnic, parades, and conventions
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Peace of Mind – Insurance and safety measures to protect our members
What We Expect from You
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Attend weekly Wednesday drills (6–9 p.m.)
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Complete at least 60 training hours per year
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Respond to 20% of annual calls
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Be a team player and maintain professionalism
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Commit to physical, mental, and emotional readiness
Eligibility Requirements
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At least 18 years old (15 for Junior Program)
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U.S. Citizen
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High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent
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Valid Driver’s License
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Good physical condition
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Strong reading, writing, and record-keeping skills
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Ability to work in confined spaces
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Team-oriented with courage, dedication, and willingness to learn
Training & Probation
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Recruit Orientation – Introduces new members to the department
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NFPA Physical Exam – Annual physical paid for by the department
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Probationary Period – One year, with review after 12 months
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Fire Academy – Mix of online training, Wednesday drills, and weekend classes
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Firefighter II Level Goal – Within 24 months of service
Enlistment Process
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Application – Apply online at www.mitchellfd.org/application or visit us at 213 E. Chain of Rocks Rd.
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Background Check – All applicants must pass a background screening.
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Physical Examination – Annual physical required, covered by the department.
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Orientation & Academy – Begin training as a probationary firefighter.
Contact Us
📍 Mitchell Fire Department
213 E. Chain of Rocks Rd.
Mitchell, IL
📞 618-931-0161
The Mitchell Fire Protection District is an equal opportunity agency. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, veteran status, marital status, disability, political affiliation, pregnancy, gender identity, or age.
🔥 Join us. Train with us. Serve with us. Protect with us. 🔥