Firefighter/Paramedic Apprentice

City of WausauWausau, WI
Onsite

About The Position

The Wausau Fire Department is seeking motivated individuals to join their Firefighter/Paramedic Apprentice (Paid Training Program). This unique opportunity provides temporary full-time paid employment while participants complete the education and training necessary to become a professional Firefighter/Paramedic. No previous fire or EMS experience or certifications are required. The program offers paid full-time employment while attending school, with Firefighter and Paramedic education provided through Northcentral Technical College. Apprentices will receive hands-on training while working with the Wausau Fire Department and will graduate with the certifications needed to become a Firefighter/Paramedic. This is a grant-funded apprenticeship position with a maximum temporary employment period of 18 months. Completion of the apprenticeship does not guarantee permanent employment, but successful apprentices are encouraged to apply for future full-time Firefighter/Paramedic positions.

Requirements

  • Be at least 18 years of age.
  • Possess a High School Diploma, GED, or HSED.
  • Possess a valid driver's license.
  • Be legally authorized to work in the United States.
  • Be able to meet the physical demands of the position.
  • Successfully complete: Background Investigation, Psychological Evaluation, Medical Examination, Drug and Alcohol Screening.
  • Ability to wear respirators, to include Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus.
  • Ability to distinguish color within NFPA standards 1582.
  • Ability to perform physically demanding work in hazardous environments while wearing personal protective equipment and self-contained breathing apparatus.
  • Ability to maintain physical fitness necessary to safely perform firefighter duties and complete all required training.
  • Ability to learn firefighting and emergency techniques and procedures authorized by the Wausau Fire Department.
  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and non-verbally, written or electronic.
  • Ability to accurately document fire reports, fire prevention inspection reports and patient care reports.
  • Ability to keep accurate records and use state-of-the-art technology.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical written materials, codes, ordinances and standards.
  • Ability to establish effective working relationships with others.
  • Physical ability and endurance to efficiently and effectively perform strenuous physical labor in threatening and stressful situations.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain certifications and licensure as required by the apprenticeship program.

Nice To Haves

  • EMT certification
  • Firefighter certification
  • College coursework
  • Volunteer fire or EMS experience
  • Military service
  • Customer service experience

Responsibilities

  • Attend and successfully complete required fire and EMS training at Northcentral Technical College.
  • Earn Firefighter I and Firefighter II certifications.
  • Earn Wisconsin EMT and Paramedic licensure.
  • Participate in department recruit academy and ongoing hands-on training.
  • Work alongside experienced firefighter/paramedics while learning the profession.
  • Develop the skills necessary to serve citizens safely and professionally.
  • Attend all required educational programs leading to Firefighter and Paramedic certification.
  • Successfully complete classroom, laboratory, and clinical requirements.
  • Participate in recruit academy and department training.
  • Assist career personnel with station duties.
  • Maintain fire apparatus, equipment, and facilities.
  • Participate in physical fitness and wellness activities.
  • Observe and assist with emergency operations consistent with training and certification level.
  • Learn fire suppression, rescue, hazardous materials response, and emergency medical operations.
  • Maintain professionalism while representing the Wausau Fire Department.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Benefits

  • Paid full-time employment
  • Firefighter and Paramedic education provided
  • Hands-on training
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