Firefighter/Paramedic

Job:                           Firefighter/Paramedic

Department:            Fire Department

Pay Rate:                 Grade 19 

Hours:                      24/48 Schedule (3 shift rotation with 24 hours worked, 48 hours off)

Summary:

Performs responsible protective service work for the preservation of life and property through the control and extinguishing of fires, search and rescue, and responding to all medical emergencies and administering of life saving measures. Incumbent works under the general supervision of a Captain and/or Lieutenant.              

Primary Responsibilities:

• Respond to fire, emergency medical and trauma, hazardous material, and other emergency calls as assigned.
• Use Departmental equipment as appropriate to extinguish fires of all types in buildings, grass, terrain, automobiles, or other sites.
• Respond to emergency medical care calls as assigned for assistance to sick or injured people and administer treatment according to the State guidelines, including the use of intravenous therapy, endotracheal intubation, and pharmacological therapy when indicated at the appropriate level.
• Drive and operate all Department vehicles as qualified and appropriate.
• Perform daily tests and upkeep tasks to keep all equipment and apparatus in state of readiness for emergencies.
• Perform routine equipment maintenance, such as checking fluids, hoses, and air pressure, and making corrections.
• Participate in pre-planning fire tactics and emergency medical procedures to improve service and rescue.
• Participate in training classes to maintain and upgrade knowledge, skills, and certification.
• Check hydrants and test available water flows on a regular schedule and as needed; maintain records, including location and types of hydrants; and painting hydrants.
• Perform work in accordance with all safety policies and procedures, including the protocols for infection control.
• Wash equipment and perform station maintenance, such as washing windows, washing and waxing floors, cleaning kitchen utensils and equipment, and doing laundry.
• Perform grounds maintenance, such as cutting grass, collecting debris, trimming, and watering.
• Make public presentations; conduct tours of the station; or assist in presenting training classes for other staff, volunteers, community groups, or fire personnel from other districts.
• Use computers to enter data and generate reports; and maintain necessary manual and computer records.
• Perform other job related duties as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Extensive knowledge in the application of modern firefighting techniques and procedures.

• Extensive knowledge of the principles, practices, procedures, equipment, and apparatus in the operations of the Emergency Medical Services.

• Considerable knowledge of the geography of the City and its buildings, street systems, and special areas requiring pre-fire knowledge or special firefighting techniques.

• Ability to use excellent communications skills, e.g., calm individuals experiencing a medical emergency; handle abusive behavior; create public trust; give and receive information on the radio under emergency situations; and provide informational presentations about the Department.

• Ability to read and interpret a variety of technical materials, including manuals and periodicals. Ability to write clear and concise reports.

• Ability to operate computers as to enter data and generate reports.

• Ability to do basic repairs and fabrications to maintain the operation of all Fire Department equipment.

• Ability to handle high level of personal stress, and to maintain composure and control of self and the situation, under a variety of adverse conditions, including verbal and physical abuse, witnessing death and critical injuries, and experiencing risk of personal harm.

• Ability to work as a reliable team member, and establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and others outside the Department, such as hospital staff and police.

• Ability to memorize and recall detail, such as names, faces, addresses, incidents, and identification of objects.

• Ability to operate any and all vehicles as assigned and qualified, including fire engines, ambulance, and all other apparatus and equipment.

• Ability to use all apparatus and equipment as assigned, including connect and use fire hose, ladders, bars, hooks, safety belts, and rope; use power equipment, including chain saw, gas-powered circular saw, portable pump, hydraulic-powered rescue tools, portable light generator, and electric saws and drills.

• Use hand tools, such as axes, shovels, pike poles, piercing nozzle, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), and various small hand tools.

• Ability to use all equipment necessary for advanced life support in a pre-hospital setting, according to protocols.

Job Qualifications:

• Be a graduate of an accredited high school or have a GED 

• Must be at least 18 years of age 

• Must pass a pre-employment competency test

• Must be able to pass Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)

• Hold a current Firefighter I certification from the Alabama Fire College.

• Hold  a current Paramedic license from ADPH and retain per State regulation.

• Must have a valid Alabama drivers’ license and driving record suitable for insurability. 

• Willing to work non-standard hours and overtime as required.

• Willing to travel to attend continuing education courses and workshops. 

• Be physically able to perform the essential functions of the position (walking, climbing, stooping, lifting, and bending). 

Applicants must meet all requirements.  Applications may be completed online at alexandercityal.gov or in person at the Municipal Complex. For questions, contact the Fire Department at (256) 329-6762.