Firefighter Recruit (Paramedic Trainee)

City of Downey•Downey, CA

4h•Onsite

About The Position

The City of Downey Fire Department is seeking dynamic, career-minded candidates interested in pursuing an excellent job opportunity in the field of fire service. The ideal candidate possesses a strong knowledge base of fire suppression, extinguishment and prevention; has excellent mechanical aptitude; has a strong understanding of the importance of teamwork and customer service; as well as, an appreciation of working within a multi-cultural community. The Firefighter Recruit (Paramedic Trainee) will participate in a six (6) to eight (8) week City of Downey Fire Fighting Training Program involving field instruction. In a non-safety training capacity under close supervision, learns to perform firefighting duties used in the suppression of structural, aircraft, wildland and other types of fires; participates in training as an Emergency Medical Technician I/Fire Service; learns to perform routine fire prevention activities; and, learns other duties as required. Following Firefighter training, recruits will attend paramedic school, beginning in January 2027. Successful completion of recruit training is contingent on completion of paramedic school and certification as a paramedic through the Los Angeles County Emergency Medical Services Agency. Following paramedic training and certification, the Firefighter Recruit (Paramedic Trainee) will be appointed as a sworn Firefighter and begin their probationary period. In addition to the above compensation, the City also currently provides the following: Up to $2,502.97 per month to be used for medical coverage for employee and qualified dependents.

Requirements

High school graduate or equivalent AND possession of at least one (1) of the following: Graduation from a California State Board of Fire Services accredited Basic Fire Academy. Currently enrolled in California State Board of Fire Services accredited Basic Fire Academy AND graduated by date of hire.
A valid California Class C Driver's License and an acceptable driving record.
Possession of a California Class B Driver's License or the ability to obtain one by the completion of the eighteen (18) month probationary period.
Current California Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Certificate.
Fire Academy students must submit EMT certificate prior to hire date.
Ability to perform physically demanding work for potentially extended periods of time under difficult, dangerous and stressful conditions.
Ability to apply technical knowledge in a critical, time-sensitive manner.
Ability to learn to effectively enforce a variety of life safety and fire prevention codes.
Ability to represent the Downey Fire Department and the City of Downey in a courteous, professional manner so as to not discredit or bring disrepute to the Department or City.
Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
Ability to understand and follow posted work rules and procedures.
Ability to establish and maintain cooperative, working relationships.
Knowledge of modern firefighting methods, techniques, and procedures.
Knowledge of fire science.
Knowledge of first aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation techniques.
Knowledge of safety precautions and regulations.
Knowledge of various firefighting rescue and emergency equipment and tools.
State of California Basic Fire Academy Certificate, OR Proof of current enrollment in a State of California Basic Fire Academy, including anticipated completion date.
Valid California EMT Certificate.
Current CPAT/Biddle card, issued with proof of passing the PAT or Biddle test on or after May 14, 2025.

Nice To Haves

Strong knowledge base of fire suppression, extinguishment and prevention.
Excellent mechanical aptitude.
Strong understanding of the importance of teamwork and customer service.
Appreciation of working within a multi-cultural community.

Responsibilities

Participates in the City of Downey Fire Fighting Training Program involving field instruction.
Learns proper firefighting techniques and procedures for fighting structural, watershed, chemical, petroleum, electrical and other fires.
Receives instructions and participates in field training to learn proper procedures and acquire proficiency in the rescue or evacuation of persons endangered by fire or disaster in the provision of emergency medical care.
Receives instructions in pre-fire plan inspection and enforcement of the Fire Code.
Receives instructions and learns the proper care and operation of all fire-suppression apparatus.
Performs other related duties as assigned.