Firefighter/Paramedic

City of Ferguson•Ferguson, MO

About The Position

This is skilled firefighting work involving combating, extinguishing, and preventing fires, and providing rescue services to protect life and property. The role also includes routine maintenance of fire department equipment, apparatus, and quarters, and driving equipment when assigned. Employees perform hazardous tasks during emergencies that may require strenuous exertion amid fire, heat, smoke, and cramped surroundings. Time is also spent studying fire prevention and suppression methods, life-saving techniques, and the operation and maintenance of fire and rescue equipment. Work is usually performed under the command of a superior officer and is reviewed during progress and upon completion. The role provides emergency medical care, including basic and advanced life support, and supports fire prevention, public education, community relations, station upkeep, and accurate recordkeeping.

Requirements

Must be at least 21 years of age.
Current paramedic license valid in the state of Missouri.
Valid driver’s license.

Nice To Haves

St. Louis County Academy preferred, but not required.

Responsibilities

Respond to fire alarms and emergency calls; control and extinguish fires and protect life and property.
Select and deploy firefighting equipment, lay fire lines, direct water or chemicals onto fires, use ladders, create building openings, and deactivate utility services when needed.
Respond to emergencies and, when assigned, drive emergency vehicles to incident scenes.
Provide immediate emergency care to ill or injured people at the scene and during transport, and operate emergency care equipment.
Assess and document patients’ conditions, complaints, vital signs, diagnoses, and care provided.
Administer basic or advanced life support, including wound and shock treatment, splinting, airway suction, oxygen, resuscitation, cardiac care, EKG and heart-monitor operation, medications, IVs, and defibrillation as appropriate.
Provide advanced medical interventions when needed, including specified airway procedures, chest tubes, IV cannulation, intracardiac medication injections, and internal IV lines.
Report patient condition and care information to receiving medical personnel.
Participate in salvage and overhaul operations to protect property and ensure fires are fully extinguished.
Inspect buildings and fire-protection systems for hazards, review blueprints, issue notices for fire-code corrections, and advise citizens on fire safety.
Develop preplans for effective firefighting at target hazards and investigate fire causes and circumstances.
Participate in ongoing training, drills, demonstrations, and classes; operate fire and rescue equipment and apparatus and drive equipment when assigned.
Provide station tours, answer public questions, and deliver public education services.
Maintain fire stations, grounds, apparatus, auxiliary equipment, and tools; test, flush, and paint hydrants and clear areas around them.
When assigned, maintain and repair breathing apparatus and nozzles, test equipment, and stock parts.
Maintain accurate records, forms, and reports.
Provide effective customer service and promote responsive community relations.
Follow safe work practices and perform related duties as assigned.