ENTRY-LEVEL Firefighter & Firefighter/Paramedic

West Pierce Fire & Rescue•3631 Drexler Dr W University Place, WA

9d•Onsite

About The Position

West Pierce Fire & Rescue (WPFR) is hiring up to 26 entry-level Firefighter and Firefighter/Paramedic positions, with employment beginning in January 2027. This posting is specifically for entry-level candidates; those with full-time, paid firefighting experience should apply through the lateral firefighter posting. The role involves both emergency and non-emergency duties, including fire suppression, emergency medical services, driving fire apparatus, training, inspections, code enforcement, public education, and equipment maintenance. Firefighters report to a Captain and are evaluated on their ability to perform all job duties. The position operates on a schedule in accordance with contractual agreements and requires active participation in incident management systems. Successful candidates will complete the Red Knights Fire Academy. Conditional offers are contingent upon passing a background investigation, driving abstract review, medical exam with drug screening, psychological assessment, and the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT). Paramedic candidates must provide certification documentation by December 4. The probationary period is 9 months, including at least 70 shifts.

Requirements

At least 18 years of age
High school diploma or equivalent
Valid driver's license allowing legal driving in the State of Washington
Current (unexpired) National Registry EMT-P and/or Washington State Paramedic certification(s) OR Successful completion of a fully accredited Paramedic program and passing the National Registry examinations (for Paramedic candidates)
Ability to communicate using the English language, both orally and in writing.
Ability to work with the general public, co-workers, and related agencies.
Ability to operate various electronic/digital multimedia equipment and a personal computer with various software applications connected to a networked system
Demonstrated ability and/or skill to effectively adopt quick and reasonable courses of action during emergency operations with due regard to surrounding hazards, circumstances and safety.
Demonstrated ability to perform as a pump operator and/or ladder company operator.
Demonstrated ability to perform emergency medical services within the scope of their certification level - EMT or Paramedic.
Demonstrated ability to carry out general and special assignments in a timely manner that fulfills the mission and needs of the district.
Maintain good physical conditioning and have the ability to carry out physically demanding tasks under dangerous and stressful conditions.
Ability to move about an emergency scene unencumbered.
Ability to withstand and work in extreme heat, fire, dusty/smoky conditions, and toxic materials when participating as an active member of the IMS team at the scene of an emergency incident.
Possess acceptable auditory and visual senses to meet the requirements of the job.
Meet all of the above demands while wearing a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

Nice To Haves

Experience in all of the major function areas of the job description.
College level education and continuing education opportunities that enhance the candidate's ability to perform essential functions of the job.
Ability to communicate in language(s), in addition to English.

Responsibilities

Respond to fire incidents, mass casualty incidents, natural disasters and other emergency incidents, serving as an active member of the incident management system (IMS) as assigned by the incident commander, up to and including actively, physically participating in efforts to effectively mitigate the incident.
Drive district response vehicles to emergency incidents, non-emergency incidents and during routine duties.
Performs duties at emergency incidents, such as placing equipment, laying and connecting hoses and nozzles, serving as the pump operator and/or ladder operator, raising and climbing ladders, removing persons from danger, using chemical extinguishing agents and other tools and equipment, etc.
Deliver/administer medical treatment and transportation to injured and ill patients, as required, in accordance with local, state, and nationally recognized standards.
Participate in training activities, pre-fire planning, inspections, public education, and other programs that enhance a high state of readiness to respond to all types of emergency situations.
Attend meetings and training sessions, as required by local, state, and contractual requirements.
Maintain necessary and accurate records and incident reports.
Communicate to a culturally diverse community in a tactful and effective manner.
Obtain and maintain EMT-B certification within Pierce County.
Perform other duties as assigned.