Temporary Firefighter/ EMT

This is an entry level emergency response position that engages in protecting life and property through combating, extinguishing and preventing fires; and providing basic life support activity in the case of medical emergency.
Testing dates will be 4/29/2026 and 4/30/2026. Both dates will be required for testing.
Testing requirements:
Applicant must provide confirmation and commitment to test, as well as copies of the following required certifications or documents:
PGFD Physical Agility Test Medical Release Form
Applicant will sign a contract agreeing to attend and pass the State of Florida Paramedic program within the first 5 years of hire date.
Should you have any questions pertaining to the testing process, please contact Tyler Canfield, Operations Chief, Punta Gorda Fire Department, View phone number on click.appcast.io.
Swim Test and Physical Agility Test will occur on Wednesday, April 29th, 2026, at 8:30am at the Punta Gorda Fire Department, 1410 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda, FL 33950. You will be swimming and doing physical activities. Respond to fire and emergency alarms; perform all phases of fire suppression work including ventilation, overhaul, salvage and clean-up activities at fire scene; place fire hoses; operate fire streams, ventilate and enter burning structures to extinguish fires and rescue victims; operate pneumatic and auxiliary equipment such as generators or pumps; operate rope systems, technical rescue and hazmat equipment.
Provide emergency medical care and basic life support at emergency and accident scenes. Perform vehicle extrications at emergency scenes.
Respond to water rescue incidents and/or work on Special Assignments.
perform minor repairs inside and outside of facilities.
Operate, inspect and maintain emergency apparatus, fire engine and other fire equipment; perform minor repairs on equipment and vehicles or report deficiencies to proper staff for other disposition.
Conduct and participate in drills and training exercises; develop skills in fire suppression, emergency medical aid, apparatus operation and other related areas.
Stay abreast of new innovations relative to fire suppression and emergency medical services.
Maintain all equipment issued (uniforms, Personal Protective Equipment, etc.) Participate in testing a variety of department equipment including protective clothing and breathing apparatus.
Respond to hazardous material incidents and take appropriate actions at the 1st Responder/Awareness level.
Make forcible entry into locked structures and/or vehicles.
Must have high school diploma or GED.
Must possess a State of Florida Fire Fighter II certification.
Must possess a State of Florida Emergency Medical Technician certification, Paramedic preferred.
No regular direct supervisory responsibilities, however this position does exercise indirect supervisory and training responsibilities for the volunteer firefighters.
When serving in a Temporary Higher Classification (THC) as a Lieutenant the Firefighter/EMT has all the supervisory duties, authority and responsibilities typically associated with that position.
Knowledge of operational characteristics, services and activities of a fire suppression and emergency medical response program including appropriate safety precautions and procedures.
Knowledge of procedures, techniques, methods, materials, tools, and equipment used in modern fire suppression, fire prevention and emergency medical response
Knowledge of appropriate medical treatment, diagnosis and evaluation procedures and techniques related to BLS medical response.
Knowledge of medical terminology and monitoring equipment and proper utilization.
Knowledge of methods and techniques of handling hazardous materials at the "Hazardous Materials Awareness" level.
Knowledge of office procedures and methods including computer equipment and supporting word processing and spreadsheet applications.
Knowledge of pertinent Federal, State and local laws, codes and regulations.
Skilled in the use of fire suppression equipment and techniques.
Skilled in recognizing hazardous materials situations and requesting the appropriate assistance at the "Hazardous Materials Awareness" level.
Able to perform a variety of fire suppression, emergency medical response and rescue activities including administering basic life support.
Able to select and properly administer first aid and medical treatment appropriate to the emergency.
Able to perform medical triage effectively and independently.
Able to perform mechanical work in the operations of fire equipment and operate and maintain associated fire suppression apparatus and equipment.
Able to operate assigned vehicle, a fire truck or ambulance safely in varying traffic and weather conditions and to observe and follow safe firefighting work practices.
Able to operate a standard shift heavy truck.
Able to swim on surface of water a minimum of 200 yards and hold breath underwater for a minimum of 30 seconds.
Able to work assigned shifts, on weekends or during holidays.
Able to communicate clearly, orally and in writing and maintain accurate records and prepare reports.
Able to prepare pre-fire plan drawings on the software provided for each application by the City.