City of Jackson works to fill firefighter positions amid national shortage

JACKSON, Tenn. — The City of Jackson is experiencing a growing firefighter shortage that has put a strain on resources.

We sat down with local leaders as they work to strengthen the fire department.

“Our issue right now is making it through the holidays, you know, we’re short-staffed. We’re doing our very best to allow our employees to still take off, take off time, spend with their families,” said Jackson Fire Department Chief Don Friddle.

Fire officials say they have seen big decline in incoming applications.

“We used to have 300-400-500 people applying for 4 or 5 jobs and we would hire once a year, maybe once a year and a half,” said Dorris.

“Right now, when we review the numbers of applicants. We’re doing good to get 30 applicants at a time,” said Chief Friddle.

Chief Friddle says one of the biggest reasons is pay. We spoke with Mayor Scott Conger who tells us what they’re doing to alleviate this strain.

“Since I’ve been in office, we’ve increased firefighter pay. We’re trying to do some things now as far as pay regularity,” said Mayor Conger.

Firefighter pay for the City of Jackson is approximately $46,000.

We spoke with one recruit who shares his reason for joining the department.

“It just seemed the best opportunity for me to be able to give back to the community,” said Jordan Neuenschwander, recruit.

Chief Friddle tells us a large majority of fire departments across the U.S. are experiencing difficulty hiring.

“Right now, we’re at 21 positions short, and we have several retirements that are coming up over the next month,” said Chief Friddle.

The holidays are a peak time for emergency-related calls. While it’s important to increase personnel numbers, recruits must undergo extensive training.

Eight recruits are currently undergoing training, set to be complete by mid-january.

“Although it’s a difficult time and our numbers are down, I can promise you that the commitment from our team–we’re passionate about it. We’re going to do what we have to do to make sure that level of protection is there,” said Chief Friddle.

The Jackson Fire Department is holding an open house Tuesday night that started at 6 p.m. for anyone interested in learning more about the profession.

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