Fire Department · Career
Putnam County Fire Rescue
Palatka, FL · Putnam County
“Always Ready, Proud Serving Our Community.”
Covers approximately 827 square miles
Hourly position requiring EMT and firefighter certifications with competitive benefits including health insurance, life insurance up to $50,000, dental, vision, and retirement plan. Apply by October 13.
Part-time EMT/Firefighter role requiring Florida EMT certification and valid driver's license. No pay details provided.
18+ high school grad required; unpaid OPS role observing fire rescue duties up to 10 hrs/week; orientation/training provided.
Full-time hourly position as a Paramedic requiring Florida certifications. No specific pay range given.
Temporary/On Call Paramedic position requiring Florida Paramedic certification and valid driver's license. No salary details provided.
Full-time hourly position as a Paramedic/Firefighter with competitive benefits, including health insurance and retirement plan. Requires EMT experience and certifications.
Hourly position requiring EMT experience and Florida Paramedic certification. Offers competitive benefits including health insurance, retirement plan, and tuition assistance.
Putnam County Fire Rescue serves an expansive 827 square miles with a population of approximately 74,000 residents. The department operates as a combination agency, meaning it utilizes both career and volunteer personnel. The career staff consists of 109 individuals who manage 8 ambulances and 6 engines, supported by 2 District Captains and a Battalion Chief.
In addition to the career division, the department is bolstered by 18 volunteer fire departments. These volunteer units provide a significant number of additional apparatus and personnel, extending the department's reach and capabilities throughout the county. Putnam County Fire Rescue is licensed by the Florida Health, Bureau of Emergency Medical Oversight (BEMO) as a full-service EMS ambulance provider.
MissionThe mission of Putnam County Fire Rescue is to provide quality pre-hospital health care and other disciplines of Emergency Services to the residents and visitors of Putnam County; to serve all with respect, dignity, empathy, and compassion; to continue to improve the quality of our services through the education of our personnel; and to protect the people of this community as directed by the Board of County Commissioners and the County Administrator.
Putnam County Fire Rescue hires career personnel as job openings become available. Interested individuals can check the county's "Current Jobs" listings for EMS and fire rescue positions. The department also actively recruits volunteer firefighters, offering free training, an incentive program with a stipend per call, and other benefits.
Requirements
- Be at least 18 Years of Age (for volunteers)
- Successfully complete a Background Check (for volunteers)
- Take and successfully pass a Drug Screen (for volunteers)
- Receive a Physical (Free, for volunteers)
- Take classes (Free, for volunteers)
- HEP B Vaccine and TB Screening (Free, for volunteers)
Hiring process
- Background Check (for volunteers)
- Drug Screen (for volunteers)
- Physical (for volunteers)
- Training classes (for volunteers)
Benefits
Volunteer firefighters receive free training, an incentive program with a stipend paid per call, worker's comp supplement by VFIS, statutory death benefits, and internet access and continuing education programs at stations.
How can I apply for a career position with Putnam County Fire Rescue?
Interested applicants should check the county's 'Current Jobs' listings for EMS and fire rescue openings. Information is available on the Putnam County Careers page.
Does Putnam County Fire Rescue accept volunteer firefighters?
Yes, Putnam County Fire Rescue actively recruits volunteer firefighters. The application process involves being at least 18 years of age, completing a background check, passing a drug screen, and receiving a free physical and necessary vaccinations/screenings.
What are the benefits of becoming a volunteer firefighter with Putnam County?
Volunteer firefighters receive free training, an incentive program with a stipend per call, worker's compensation supplement, statutory death benefits, and access to internet and continuing education programs at stations.
Where are Putnam County Fire Rescue stations located?
Putnam County Fire Rescue has numerous station locations throughout the county, including career, volunteer, and combination stations. A map and list of station locations are available on their website.
How can I contact Putnam County Fire Rescue?
The Fire/EMS Chief, Richard Back, can be reached at (386) 329-0416 or richard.back@putnam-fl.gov. The administrative address is 410 S. State Road 19 Palatka, FL 32177. Human Resources can be contacted at (386) 329-0221 or HR.putnam@putnam-fl.gov.