EMT/ FIREFIGHTER

Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

 

DEFINITION

To perform firefighting, rescue and emergency medical service duties as an entry-level member of the Fire Department; to participate in fire suppression, EMS and emergency response activities; and to receive training in firefighting techniques, emergency medical procedures, equipment operation and departmental policies and procedures.

This is the trainee-level classification within the Fire Department. Employees at this level perform individually and/or as members of a firefighting or ambulance team and participate in fire suppression and EMS activities including firefighting, rescue, first aid, ventilation, forcible entry, salvage, overhaul, inspection practices, auto extraction, patient handling and care, and triage. Employees work under close supervision while completing required training and certifications. Employees are expected to adhere to all City policies, procedures, operational standards and safety guidelines and serve as a role model in their application.

 

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This classification performs trainee-level firefighting and emergency medical response duties within the Fire Department. Employees at this level receive close supervision and training while developing the skills, knowledge and abilities necessary to perform full firefighting and EMS responsibilities.

 

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives close supervision from Fire Captains, Lieutenants and other supervisory personnel. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTION STATEMENTS

Essential responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

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• Participate in firefighting and life-saving activities and procedures.
• Respond to fire alarms, medical emergencies, rescue incidents and related emergency calls under supervision.
• Participate in EMS and ambulance operations including patient care, transportation assistance and emergency medical response.
• Assist with firefighting activities including ventilation, forcible entry, salvage, overhaul and rescue operations.
• Participate in inspection activities and emergency response training exercises.
• Assist with auto extraction, patient handling, triage and related rescue activities.
• Maintain fire and ambulance equipment in proper operating condition.
• Assist in maintaining fire stations, grounds and facilities in a clean and orderly condition.
• Attend and successfully complete required training, certification programs and departmental instruction.
• Maintain acceptable attendance and the ability to work effectively with others.
• Any specific requirements stated in the “offer of employment letter.”
• Safety for oneself and others is a primary responsibility of every employee.
• Perform related duties and responsibilities as required.

 

QUALIFICATIONS

 

Principles, Practices and Knowledge of:

• Basic firefighting and emergency response concepts.
• Basic emergency medical service procedures.
• Fire Department policies, procedures and safety practices.
• Fire apparatus, tools and equipment used in emergency response operations.
• Occupational hazards and safe work practices associated with firefighting and EMS activities.

 

Operational Skills and Core Competencies:

• Learn firefighting and emergency medical procedures effectively.
• Follow oral and written instructions.
• Work effectively as part of a firefighting and EMS team.
• Maintain physical conditioning and stamina required for emergency response duties.
• Operate firefighting and emergency response equipment safely.
• Communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, coworkers and the public.
• Exercise sound judgment during emergency and non-emergency situations.

 

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING GUIDELINES

Any combination of education, training and experience that demonstrates the required qualifications for this position may be considered qualifying.

 

Experience:

No prior firefighting experience required.

 

Education and Training:

High school diploma or equivalent required.

Certification as a Basic Emergency Medical Technician required.

Certified EMT Intermediate or Paramedic certification preferred.

Must successfully pass all required written, physical agility, medical and departmental testing requirements.

Must be able to work assigned shifts.

 

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

 

Environmental Conditions:

Work is performed in station, field and emergency response environments including exposure to smoke, heat, hazardous materials, inclement weather, confined spaces, traffic hazards and other dangerous conditions.

 

Functional Requirements:

Maintain functional capabilities necessary to perform assigned duties including:

• Performing strenuous physical activity for extended periods of time.
• Climbing, crawling, lifting, carrying and operating firefighting equipment.
• Wearing personal protective equipment and self-contained breathing apparatus.
• Operating emergency vehicles and firefighting equipment under supervision.
• Reading, writing and interpreting emergency response information.
• Observing and responding to operational and safety conditions.

 

LICENSE OR CERTIFICATE

Certification as a Basic Emergency Medical Technician required.

Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid driver’s license required.

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