Firefighter/Paramedic Recruit

City of San MarcosSan Marcos, CA
Onsite

About The Position

This is an entry-level position within the Firefighter series, designed for individuals undergoing initial fire department training, orientation, and mentorship. The program prepares recruits for a firefighting career by teaching them to perform related work, including firefighter and paramedic skills, rescue techniques, emergency medical procedures, fire codes, apparatus and equipment use, fire prevention, salvage, and overhaul operations. Recruits receive classroom training, drills, and instruction in firefighting, rescue work, first aid, and emergency life support. Upon successful completion of the orientation phase, the Recruit position transitions to Firefighter/Paramedic. The ideal candidate is a self-starter, motivated, embraces innovative management, and blends traditional fire service values with modern business practices. Strong cooperative relationships with other city departments and community organizations are crucial. The ability to carry out responsibilities with minimal direction and supervision, and a dedication to maintaining high operational standards are essential.

Requirements

  • At least 18 years of age.
  • Education equivalent to completion of the twelfth grade.
  • Graduated from a 240-hour Firefighter I Academy accredited by California State Marshal/State Fire Training or equivalent.
  • Completed appropriate education and training to obtain licensure as a California State Certified EMT/Paramedic.
  • Meet requirements of the County of San Diego EMS Office, including successful completion of the San Diego County protocol examination.
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Accredited California State Fire Marshal / State Fire Training Firefighter I Academy Certificate (or proof of enrollment if currently enrolled and will complete by hire date).
  • If applying with an out-of-state Firefighter I Academy Certificate, must include proof of accreditation by IFSAC and Pro Board.
  • Driver License (if from a state other than CA, must obtain a CA Driver license with satisfactory driving record by time of appointment).
  • Certified EMT/Paramedic license (if issued in a state other than CA, must obtain EMT-P accreditation with the County of San Diego EMS office).
  • A San Diego County Card is required at time of appointment.
  • Valid CPR Certification with a minimum rating of BLS-C.
  • Current ACLS Card.
  • Passing result in both FCTC written and CPAT within 12 months of application deadline.
  • Must be on the FCTC Statewide Eligibility List (SEL) at time of application.

Nice To Haves

  • Valid Driver/Operator Certificate
  • California State Firefighter I and II Certificates
  • Hazardous Materials First Responder Operational Certificate
  • NIMS (IS700)
  • Any other supplemental material you wish to include (cover letter, resume, etc.)

Responsibilities

  • Respond to alarms involving fire, accidents, gas leaks, flooded structures, hazardous substances, and lifesaving and rescue work.
  • Place fire hose, set ladders, operate fire streams, ventilate and enter burning structures to extinguish fires and perform rescue services.
  • Treat and transport patients in accordance with San Diego County Emergency Medical Services protocol and Department policy.
  • Diagnose medical problems and provide emergency medical care and treatment to ill or injured persons.
  • Interpret electrocardiograms and recognize cardiac arrhythmias.
  • Administer cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), defibrillation, intravenous solutions, emergency bandaging and splinting, and use adjunctive breathing devices.
  • Prepare and maintain confidential records and reports, including medical information, controlled drug inventory, equipment and station logs, and EMS reports.
  • Participate in the quality assurance/quality improvement program.
  • Safely operate department vehicles and related emergency medical equipment, radio equipment, personal protective equipment, fire hydrants, rescue and miscellaneous fire suppression tools.
  • Operate pneumatic and auxiliary equipment such as generators and pumps.
  • Occasionally operate fire and rescue apparatus, other mechanical equipment, and pressure ventilation fans.
  • Perform salvage and overhaul operations during and after fires.
  • Support and assist other Firefighter/Paramedics on medical calls.
  • Perform fire prevention and pre-fire planning inspections.
  • Inspect and maintain fire hydrants.
  • Participate in drills and other Department training activities.
  • Participate in fire watches.
  • Participate in self-directed exercise program to maintain physical fitness.
  • Study and keep up to date on City geography, Department rules, regulations, procedures and other training and job-related materials.
  • Update station bulletin boards and maps.
  • Clean and maintain fire station and grounds.
  • Wash, polish, and perform preventive maintenance on fire apparatus and equipment.
  • May be called in from off duty to work mandatory hours during major fires or emergencies, which may include extended periods.
  • May be required to work additional hours to support automatic or mutual aid responses, or in support of Department endorsed or sponsored events.
  • Present programs and participate in departmental public relations programs as assigned.
  • Demonstrate proper procedures and techniques to other employees as assigned.
  • Perform other related work as required.

Benefits

  • Great benefits that protect you
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