Firefighter/Paramedic

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this position is to perform skilled firefighting, emergency medical, rescue, fire prevention, public education, and related emergency response activities. Responds to fires, medical emergencies, hazardous conditions, vehicle accidents, technical rescues, and other incidents. Provides Advanced Life Support (ALS) services as a certified Paramedic and participates in station, equipment, and apparatus maintenance activities.

This job works under close to general supervision according to set procedures but determines how or when to complete tasks.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The essential functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this class. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the class as necessary.

• Responds to fire suppression, emergency medical, rescue, hazardous materials, and other emergency incidents.
• Provides Advanced Life Support patient assessment, treatment, and transport preparation within established protocols.
• Operates firefighting apparatus, pumps, hoses, ladders, and related equipment.
• Conducts fire attack, ventilation, search and rescue, salvage, overhaul, and incident support activities.
• Performs emergency medical care including patient stabilization, medication administration, airway management, and cardiac monitoring.
• Participates in pre-fire planning, fire inspections, hydrant inspections, and community risk reduction activities.
• Conducts public education programs and community outreach initiatives.
• Inspects, cleans, tests, and maintains apparatus, equipment, tools, and station facilities.
• Completes reports, patient care documentation, incident records, and related administrative documentation.
• Participates in drills, continuing education, physical fitness training, and professional development programs.
• Assists during natural disasters, severe weather events, and emergency management operations.
• Performs related work as assigned.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS REQUIREMENTS:

• High School Graduation or GED equivalent.
• Certified Firefighter I and Firefighter II (or ability to obtain within established timeframe).
• Prefers Associate degree in Fire Science, Emergency Medical Services, or related field.
• Prefers experience in municipal fire and EMS operations.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Physical demands refer to the requirements for physical exertion and coordination of limb and body movement.

• Performs very heavy work that involves constantly lifting, shoveling, and carrying 50 to 75 pounds on a regular and recurring basis and exerting 100 pounds of force on a frequent basis.

UNAVOIDABLE HAZARDS (WORK ENVIRONMENT):

Unavoidable hazards refer to job conditions that may lead to injury or health hazards even though precautions have been taken.

• Involves routine and frequent exposure to:

• Bright/dim light; Dusts and pollen.

• Extreme heat and/or cold; Wet or humid conditions.
• Extreme noise levels, Animals/wildlife.
• Vibration; Fumes and/or noxious odors.
• Traffic; Moving machinery.
• Electrical shock; Heights.
• Radiation; Disease/pathogens.
• Toxic/caustic chemicals; Explosives; Violence.
• Other extreme hazards not listed above.

SPECIAL CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES:

• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license with an acceptable driving history.
• South Carolina EMT-Paramedic certification or National Registry Paramedic certification recognized by South Carolina.
• Current CPR certification.
• ICS/NIMS certifications as required by the department.
• Hazardous Materials Operations certification, preferred.
• Technical rescue certifications, preferred.

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT COMPLIANCE

The Town of Surfside Beach is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  ADA requires the Town to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified people with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.

STANDARD CLAUSE

May be required to work nights, weekends, holidays and emergencies (man-made or natural) to meet the business needs of the Town.

ESSENTIAL SAFETY FUNCTIONS

It is the responsibility of each employee to comply with established policies, procedures, and safe work practices. Each employee must follow safety training and instructions provided by their supervisor. Each employee must also properly wear and maintain all personal protective equipment required for their job. Finally, each employee must immediately report any unsafe work practices or unsafe conditions as well as any on-the-job injury or illnesses. 

Every manager/supervisor is responsible for enforcing all safety rules and regulations. In addition, they are responsible for ensuring that a safe work environment is maintained, safe work practices are followed, and employees are properly trained.  

Disclaimer: The job description is not an employment agreement or contract. The duties, skills and requirements outlined in this document represents what is required to perform the essential job junctions of this position; however, this document is not to be considered all-inclusive and may be amended at any time at the discretion of the Town Administrator and with the approval of Town Council.