FIREFIGHTER PARAMEDIC

Firefighter - Grade 21

The purpose of this job is to perform specialized duty work functions in preparing for and responding to fire/medical emergency calls and in providing general support within the Fire Department. Duties and responsibilities include maintaining readiness for emergency call response; responding to fire, medical, and related emergency calls when dispatched and taking proper action; educating staff and public on fire safety/prevention; and performing other tasks related to City and Fire Department activities. The following duties are normal for this classification. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned. Specific duties listed may not be required for all positions within this classification but are determined by the normal requirements for the particular position.

Enforces and complies with all city fire codes and ordinances and state fire laws and regulations in order to protect life and property; complies with all rules, orders, and instructions issued by superior officer.

Responds to emergency calls involving fires, medical, hazardous materials, vehicle accidents, and emergency situations; evaluates scene upon arrival; directs traffic and control crowds.

Monitors and communicates effectively and coherently over radio channels while initiating and responding to radio communications; exchanges information with dispatchers, medical professionals, and other department employees.

Selects and properly operates fire service tools and equipment, specifically: fire hoses, nozzles, appliances, and the components of sprinkler and standpipe systems.

Provides emergency medical care as a licensed Paramedic, specifically: basic first aid, basic life support, patient assessment, advanced cardiac life support, basic trauma life support, pediatric life support, spinal immobilization, administer medication, IV therapy, triage, defibrillation, manage obstructed airway and/or other treatment; provides rehydration and first aid support during fire scene activities.

Provides control of fire situation, specifically: suppression and extinguishment, forcible entry, ventilation, search and rescue of victims, salvage and overhaul; recognizes and preserves evidence of arson.

Locates water source; lays and connects hose, acts as nozzle or backup person in the direction of water streams, uses chemical fire extinguishers, and raises and climbs ladders.

Identifies dangerous building conditions, electrical emergencies, hazardous materials, and ancillary health hazards; takes/applies appropriate precautions and procedures; informs and/or evacuates individuals and implements appropriate medical protocols.

Implements emergency techniques when trapped or disoriented; assists fellow fire fighters and guides new recruits; maintains and wears protective clothing and self-contained breathing apparatus as designed.

Conducts building inspections and notifies concerned parties of fire hazards; prepares pre-fire plans including layout of building and hydrant locations; checks fire hydrants for proper function.

Performs rescue operations, specifically: extrications of individuals from structures or vehicles; search for possible drowning victims, and/or search and rescue of fallen victims in high angle rescue situations where repelling is necessary; maintains knowledge of rope rescue equipment and latest techniques.

Maintains a current knowledge and awareness of applicable laws/regulations including current field and code manuals, policy and procedures manuals, employee handbooks, and area maps.

Attends meetings, seminars, and training sessions to remain knowledgeable of departmental and city operations and abreast of current medical and rescue techniques and to promote improved job performance.

Composes and prepares forms, logs, requests, records, reports, correspondence, and documents associated with daily responsibilities of this position.

Prepares, inspects, inventories, repairs, and/or maintains fire equipment, apparatus, hoses, tools, materials, turnout gear, medical equipment, and vehicles for safe operation; tests equipment on a regular basis.

Performs the following duties: conducting fire station tours, raising and lowering the flag, securing station facilities, preparing meals, laundry, general housekeeping and station cleaning, painting, polishing station metal, and grounds maintenance.

Provides information, advice and guidance; takes and relays messages and/or direct calls to appropriate personnel; returns calls.

Recommends and supports policies and procedures that guide and support the provision of quality services by the Fire Department.

Must be able to maintain good interpersonal relationships with staff, co-workers, managers, and citizens.

Substitutes for co-workers in temporary absence of same as requested by the Superior Officer.

Must accomplish the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodations, in a timely manner.

The following are job-related qualifications that are required for employment consideration for this position:

• Possess a current Paramedic License and be a National Registered Paramedic (NREMT).
• Must be at least 18 years of age by the announcement closing date.
• Possess a High School Diploma or a G.E.D. certificate by the announcement closing date.
• No felony convictions.
• Must be able to obtain a Firefighter I/II certification within one year of the hire date.
• Valid State of Alabama driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Firefighter I and Firefighter II certification.
• Passing score on the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) if not Firefighter I/II certified.

Requirements During Probationary Period:

• Fire Fighter I certified by the Alabama Fire College
• Fire Fighter II, if not taken in conjunction with Fire Fighter I
• Emergency Vehicle Operator's Course (EVOC)
• Alabama Ethics Commission Initial Ethics Course
• NIMS courses IS-100, IS-200, IS-700, IS-800

Requirements Within Two (2) years of Hire Date:

• Certified Child Passenger Safety Seat Technician

Work Environment:

Work is conducted both indoors in employer-owned facilities (e.g., fire station) as well as regular field visits to external places of business, residences, and emergency medical facilities. Work involves use of firefighting/lifesaving equipment. May be exposed to hazardous weather conditions, roadway traffic, infectious diseases, and angry/irate citizens.

Physical Demands:

Job involves moderate physical exertion required for occasional prolonged periods of lifting, climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, or running. May involve occasional lifting of items or objects weighing in excess of 75 lbs. Work involves physical ability necessary to combat/extinguish fires, respond to emergency medical calls, and deliver patient care.

Disclaimer: This job description is not meant to be an all-inclusive list of the job duties, responsibilities, or skills and abilities required to do the job and may be changed at the discretion of the City of Trussville at any time.