Fire Fighter II/Paramedic

JOB DESCRIPTION

Fire Fighter II/Paramedic

FULL‑TIME REGULAR

Starting hourly rate: $20.16–$23.24 (rate depends on years of service as a paramedic)

SUMMARY OF DUTIES

Under general supervision, the firefighter is a member of an engine company, ladder truck or medical rescue, protecting life and property by performing live‑fire suppression, rendering emergency medical care, responding to hazardous materials incidents, and maintaining fire apparatus, issued equipment and department facilities. An EMT‑Paramedic Firefighter must pass an exam testing the ability to assess patient condition, handle trauma or cardiac emergencies, and clear blocked airways. They also learn to immobilize injured patients and administer oxygen.

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS

The firefighter must know how to assume and transfer command at a fire scene using the department’s incident management system. He/She must demonstrate the ability to complete an incident report and communicate the needs of his/her team to command authority using the department's standard operating procedures.

FIRE GROUND OPERATIONS REQUIREMENTS

The firefighter must demonstrate the ability to extinguish an ignitable liquid fire using foam and ensure that the fire does not reignite. He/She must show the ability to assemble a team and devise the attack technique for fighting various kinds of fires. The firefighter must be able to select tools to force entry into a building and provide proper ventilation based on the structure and nature of the fire. He/She must know how to protect evidence in cases of arson and demonstrate the ability to rescue victims of motor vehicle accidents using extrication tools. The firefighter must also know how to conduct hazard inspections and properly document any hazards found.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

Performs fire suppression activities, including driving and operating fire apparatus, operating pumps, hydraulics and related equipment, and performing offensive and defensive fire combat, containment and extinguishment tasks. Performs emergency medical aid to the appropriate level of EMS licensure, following local patient care guidelines. Participates in classroom and training drill activities; attends continuing education courses in firefighting, emergency medical, hazardous materials and related activities; attends meetings and public gatherings as required. Operates public safety communications equipment and office appliances including telephone and email. Performs daily/weekly/monthly/semi‑annual/annual preventive maintenance inspections of personal protective equipment, fire and medical apparatus and equipment to ensure operational readiness and performs minor repairs as needed. Maintains certification in firefighting and emergency medical licensure. Relies on senses to determine the nature of emergency and maintain personal safety, making critical decisions in chaotic, life‑threatening environments. Understands and carries out orders and assignments in both emergency and non‑emergency situations, demonstrating adequate speaking skills. Communicates face‑to‑face and by radio and telephone, demonstrating proficiency in English reading and writing. Learns required skills and duties within reasonable training timeframes, showing motivation and self‑discipline. Willing to perform both emergency and routine tasks consistently and to follow city and department policies, respond to corrective discipline, and work effectively as a team member. Handles repeated trauma and loss, confronting danger and life‑threatening events. Adapts to the work schedule, assignments and job impact on self and family. Makes quality decisions based on training, certification and common sense. Maintains a communications device for call or recall during emergencies. Works on a 48/96‑hour work schedule, inclusive of weekends, holidays, overtime or other required hours.

QUALIFICATIONS

At least 21 years of age and U.S. Citizen. High school diploma or equivalent. Valid New Mexico driver’s license, Class E (or obtain within 6 months of hire). Pass a written entrance examination. Pass an initial drug and alcohol screening. Possess AHA Healthcare Provider CPR. Possess Incident Command Levels 100, 200. Possess NIMS 700, 800. Possess IFSAC Firefighter II (certification required within one year of employment if not already certified). Possess New Mexico EMT‑Paramedic licensure. Possess National Registry EMT‑Paramedic licensure.

EQUIPMENT USED

1000‑gallon and 3000‑gallon engine company and associated hand tools and equipment. 75‑foot ladder truck (Quint) and associated hand tools and equipment. Wildland brush truck unit and associated hand tools and equipment. Vehicle extrication equipment (cutter, spreader) and pneumatic airbags. Various personal protective equipment and self‑contained breathing apparatus. Public safety radio. Computer and other office appliances and various software applications.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Properly discharge duties at the level of training, certification and licensure. Repeatedly lift and carry at least 50 pounds over distances up to 250 feet. Operate in high‑noise, poor‑visibility, limited‑mobility, high‑height and confined‑space environments. Free from significant personal limitations that would interfere with required duties. Perform a wide range of physical movements: sit, stand, walk, jog, run, sprint, climb, bend, lift, raise, kneel, crawl, squat, stretch, pull, push, twist, hold, grip, carry, drag, throw, lean, maintain balance. Use a variety of fire suppression and protective gear under stressful conditions. Perform complex tasks during emergency and non‑emergency situations using medical diagnostic equipment. Lift and carry a loaded stretcher or gurney, including stairs with assistance. Exposed to extreme temperatures (up to 400 F) while wearing protective equipment that impairs cooling. Transition between hot, cold, dry and wet atmospheres; connect hose couplings in limited or total darkness. Operate on slippery, hazardous surfaces such as rooftops or ladders; handle potential traumatic or thermal injuries. Potential exposure to hazardous materials or infectious agents, including carcinogenic dusts, toxins, corrosives, carbon monoxide, organic solvents. Wear protective gear weighing approximately 60 pounds during strenuous tasks. Perform long periods of sustained physical activity and concentration; tolerate grotesque sights and smells associated with major trauma, burn victims and death. Not pose a direct or indirect threat to health and welfare of self or others; perform all functions safely and efficiently. Rescue, carry or drag a typical adult weighing up to 175 pounds from hazardous areas.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this certification. They are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties or skills required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. This position has been classified as a safety‑sensitive position and is subject to our drug‑testing policy, including pre‑employment, random, reasonable suspicion and post‑accident testing for prohibited substances such as marijuana, amphetamines, opioids, PCP, cocaine and any drug not approved for medical use by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration or U.S. Food and Drug Administration. #J-18808-Ljbffr Belen Nm